PH stands for "potential hydrogen." A higher pH rating means that the liquid is more oxygen rich. The ideal pH level for your body is 7.4. A lower pH rating means that your body is too acidic. A pH rating above 7.4 means that your body is too alkaline. Eating foods that are acidic, or acid-forming, lowers your pH level.
Meats and Dairy
Meats and dairy products are acidic foods. Meats include chicken, seafood, pork, beef, lamb and turkey. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream are all acid-forming foods.
Nuts and Oils
Some nuts and oils are acid-forming foods. Cashews, pistachios and peanuts are acidic. Cooking oils like corn oil, sunflower oil and vegetable oil are also acidic. Hydrogenated oils found in products like margarines and nondairy butter replacements are acid-forming too.
Sweets and Processed Foods
Sweet foods like chocolate and candy are acidic. Many meals that are quick and convenient are acidic too. These include instant meals, powdered soups, fast foods, microwaved meals and canned foods.
Breads and Pasta
Breads and pasta may also be acid forming. Whole-wheat and white bread are acidic. White pasta is too.
Fruits
Almost all fruits are alkaline. These include limes, lemons, tomatoes, grapefruits, rhubarb and avocados.
Drinks
Foods are not the only things that can affect your pH level. Beverages affect your pH too. Alcoholic drinks like beer and liquor are acidic. Drinks like coffee, teas and sodas are acidic too. Beverages with dairy in them, such as smoothies and yogurt drinks, are acidic just like dairy foods.
Warnings
Eating too many acidic foods can cause your pH level to drop below 7.0, which is considered acidic. According to Michael Lam, M.D., M.P.H., a body that is too acidic is more likely to become ill. A low pH level leads to fatigue, a reduction in energy production, difficulty absorbing nutrients, impaired ability to repair damaged cells and a decrease in your body's ability to detoxify heavy metals.
PH Testing
Testing your pH level is simple. Purchase either saliva or urinary pH strips and follow the directions. These strips are made from litmus paper. You either put one in your mouth or pee on it to reveal your pH level. If your body is acidic, eat alkaline foods to raise your pH level. Alkaline foods include almonds, aloe vera, cabbage, celery, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, grapefruit, millet, rice, parsley, raisins, red potatoes, soy products, sprouted seeds, fresh fruits and mineral water.
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