The body requires a pH of 7.35 to 7.45 for optimal function. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral as in pure water. A pH over 7 is considered alkaline and below 7 is acidic. The pH is affected by various factors including the foods we eat and physical and emotional stress.
Alkaline Foods
Alkaline or alkalizing foods help neutralize acid and raise the pH of the body. Alkaline fruits include melons, berries, citrus, apples, bananas, tropical fruits and orange fruits such as peaches, nectarines and apricots. Alkaline protein sources include cottage cheese, unsweetened organic yogurt, almonds and seeds such as flax, pumpkin and sunflower. Generally speaking, fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, seasonings and seeds are alkaline foods.
Acidic Foods
Acidic foods lower the pH of the body leading to potentially harmful consequences. Acidic foods include soda, alcohol, processed and fast foods, meat, fish, poultry and legumes. Grains such as barley, oats, quinoa, corn, rice and wheat are among acid forming foods. In addition, refined flours and starches including breads and pastas are acidic foods.
Acid/Alkaline Imbalance
An imbalance in pH interferes with metabolism and body function. An acidic pH causes the body to pull organic salts such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium from their stores in the bones and muscles to neutralize the acid. This leeching of minerals can, most notably, lead to osteoporosis, muscle weakness and fluid electrolyte imbalance. If the blood pH goes above 7.45, degenerative diseases may occur.
Recommendations
To maintain good health, at least 60 percent of your diet should come from alkalizing foods and less than 40 percent from acidic foods. To restore health, consume 80 percent alkaline to 20 percent acidic. Incorporate bio-available calcium, magnesium and phosphate into your diet to ensure proper amounts of these vital minerals are absorbed for body functioning. If you are concerned about the alkaline/acid balance of your body, consult your health care provider for your best options.
References
- Envirohealthtech.com; pH Balance
- The Wolfe Clinic; Acid Alkaline Foods
- "Human Anatomy and Physiology"; Elaine N Marieb; 2000
- Total Health Institute; Cola Raises Women's Osteoporosis Risk; Dr. Keith Nemec et al; December 2010
