Did you know that cancer cannot survive in an alkaline environment? Nor can fungus, bacteria or viruses—they all need an acidic atmosphere to thrive. Acidity affects every major gland and organ in the body and is responsible for countless maladies including cardio-vascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, depression, obesity and fatigue. An alkaline environment, on the other hand, prolongs life and creates health. So why weren’t we taught this in health class?
Measuring pH:
The state of alkalinity or acidity in the physical body can be measured on a pH scale, ranging from 0 to 14 with 7.0-7.5 being the preferred range. A rating of 7 is neutral, less than 7 is acidic, and more than 7 is alkaline. Because we are so divinely created, our bodies work relentlessly to maintain our blood at a level of 7.4, drawing alkaline minerals from the cells if necessary. However, if too many minerals are depleted from our alkaline reserves, acidosis results, which can be a catalyst for a variety of illnesses.
Monitoring pH levels:
Current levels of alkalinity/acidity can be measure by blood, urine or saliva tests. Your doctor can administer these tests or you can use pH stripsat home. These can be purchased at most health stores or online. In his book, Alkalize or Die, Dr. Theodore A. Baroody has created a simplified food measurement scale to assist in determining pH levels from the foods we eat.3
Influencing pH:
There are multiple factors that contribute to a healthy pH balance in your body. Nutrition, stress, sleep, exercise, sunlight, service to others, colors, music (they don’t call it ‘acid rock’ for nothing) and even the company we keep can influence our pH levels.
Nutrition:
Ideally, we should strive for a diet consisting of 80% alkaline-forming foods and 20% acid-forming foods to maintain alkalinity in the body. Any effort made to increase the amount of raw and living foods to our daily diet, will assist in the alkaline process.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to abstain completely from the acidic foods that you love, just balance them out with more alkaline foods. Try including raw foods with every meal like topping your favorite sandwich with sprouts. For more detailed information on alkaline/acidic foods, see the web sites below for online charts.1
Alkaline foods:
Bee Pollen, chlorophyll greens, grasses (alfalfa, wheat grass), herbs, sprouts, almonds, pine nuts, broccoli, carrots, squash, spinach, soy lecithin, goat cheese, avocado, raisins, wild rice, cucumber, figs, ginger, garlic, herb teas (non-fruity), stevia, coconut, flax and olive oils, citrus fruits, cayenne, cabbage and celery.
Acidic foods:
Pork, beef, refined sugar, cheese, eggs, milk products, peanuts, wheat, chocolate (yeah, sorry about that one), coffee, tea, alcohol, beer, soft drinks and artificial sweeteners.
Exercise:
Exercise—just to the point of exhaustion (attaining your target heart rate)—creates an alkaline response because of the increased oxygenation. Pushing yourself beyond that point, however, may cause the body to release excess stored acidity.3 When beginning a new fitness program, begin slowly to allow your body to adjust to the physical demands of a new routine. Gradually increase your workout while monitoring your target heart rate. A body that is accustomed to regular fitness is less likely to be affected by acidosis.
Pharmaceuticals:
While 98% of all drugs are acidic (prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and recreational drugs) and produce multiple side-effects, herbal remedies (which have been used for centuries) are alkaline and side-effects are rare. Whenever possible, natural supplementation is preferred over synthetic medications that are not easily assimilated by our bodies. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes in your current medication regimen.
Stress and anxiety:
Just as anxiety and stress promotes an acidic environment, a peaceful disposition influences an alkaline environment. Prayer, counseling, chiropractic, massage and exercise such as yoga, contribute to eliminating acids and promote an alkaline environment as they align our body, calm our mind and reduce stress. Living outside of ourselves by genuine thoughtfulness and service towards others also tips the alkaline scale in our favor.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and these statements are for informational purposes only. Please check with your doctor if you have any medical concerns or plan to begin any new diet program.
Resources:
1http://www.energiseforlife.com/list_of_alkaline_foods.php
http://www.essense-of-life.com/moreinfo/foodcharts.htm
3 Alkalize or Die, Dr. Theodore A. Baroody
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