Alkalizing one’s body has become the basis of many recent health regimens, but some people feel that the importance of pH values is just a new fad. What most people don’t realize is that the art of pH balancing has had a long tradition, and unlike many modern theories, it has helped to save lives and maintain health.

If you remember any of your chemistry or science classes, you may recall the difference between and acid and a base, or even the definition of pH value. pH values stand for the alkalinity or acidity of a certain substance.

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, and 7 is considered as a neutral value. Every value below 7 stands for an acidic substance, and when the value is higher than 7, the substance is considered to be alkaline, or base.

Why is pH Value Important?

Scientists have confirmed that an acidic environment is associated with accelerated cancer growth. Studies have also shown that an acidic body is more prone to disease, including arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, people with an imbalanced pH value cannot utilize all of the nutrients from the food they eat, and this can eventually lead to fatigue.

Many studies have shown that acidic pH values increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Alkaline pH values are linked to improved memory, reduced pain, and decreased risk of hypertension and stroke. The value of pH levels also affect bone health. Scientists say that alkaline foods can actually improve bone density.

What Causes pH Imbalance?

Have you ever considered all the chemicals you consume? All the labels that contain aspartame, phosphorus (found in soda), and caffeine? These and many other chemicals increase the acidity of the body.

Unfortunately, we prefer eating foods that cause toxic buildup in our bodies. Moreover, we poison ourselves on a daily basis. Toxins are found in the clothes we wear, the towels we use, the cleaning products we buy to clean our houses, and many other products.

However, our diet is the major culprit. People prefer to eat junk food, sweet snacks, and processed delicacies. In addition to this, lifestyle choices are another factor that increase acidity levels. Believe it or not, even over-exercising, especially cardiovascular exercises, can decrease the pH value, as it can cause excess stress on the body.

Our bodies can regulate its pH value, but not for long, so you need to help your body reach a pH balance.

Test Your pH Level

Test strips can help you determine the pH value of your body, and urine or saliva are the best indicators. You can purchase test strips online or in some drug and health stores.

Saliva:

Before you brush your teeth, fill your mouth with saliva and then swallow. Do the same thing again, but this time spit some of the saliva onto the pH test strip. This method is necessary, as it ensures a clean saliva sample. Normal values range from 6.5 to 7.0.

Urine:

Collect some of your first morning urine and keep it in a glass container. Dip the pH strip test into the urine. The value should range from 7.2 to 7.4.

How To Balance Your pH Value?

Magnesium: Most doctors would agree that magnesium deficiency is common in the U.S. Magnesium is extremely important for women, because it helps the body assimilate calcium, which prevents osteoporosis.

This mineral can naturally raise the pH value, while also providing instant energy. You can use a liquid supplement, which is often combined with calcium, as it is a great addition to a magnesium-based diet. You can also find magnesium in foods such as avocado, almonds, cashews, and spinach.

Eliminate Sugar

Sugar is one of the most acidic substances. Consuming it causes weight gain and it also negatively affects the immune system. Replace refined sugar with alkaline sweeteners such as stevia, agave nectar, and maple syrup. Stevia may be the best choice, as it has been proven to be the most efficient in lowering blood sugar levels.

Rev Up The Enzymes

Acidity affects the digestive enzymes in the small intestine, and the body is unable to break down foods and use the nutrients properly.

This leads to improper metabolism, obesity, and diabetes. Add enzymes to your diet — for example, bromelain (found in pineapples), and papain (found in papaya) and you will increase the benefits of alkaline fruits and vegetables.

Drink Lemon Water

Lemon is known as the most alkaline fruit, even though many think that it is acidic. When lemon juice enters the digestive tract, the enzymes turn it alkaline.

Water is also important, as it cuts down the acidic side-effects of soft drinks, coffee and tea, as well as flushing out the kidneys. Start your day with warm lemon water and make sure you drink enough water throughout the day. This will ensure an alkaline environment in your body.

Eat Vegetables Instead of Meat

Meat can contribute to an improper pH balance, as it contains zinc and potassium, essential for the body. But it is also acidic, and most people consume a lot of meat.

Your diet should not be based on meat only; eat meat in addition to a plate full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Keep in mind that not all vegetables are alkaline, but most of them are, so make sure you keep a list of alkaline and acidic foods posted in your kitchen, so you can check it whenever you go to the grocery store.

Remember, the natural pH value of foods does not necessarily indicate the effect it may have on your body. Be proactive about your stress levels. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly and relax. This will do wonders for your body and soul.

Source: organichealth.co
Other sources linked in Organic Health article:
www.healthyandnaturalworld.com
www.chatelaine.com
www.saragottfriedmd.com
healthfree.com
www.bottomlinepublications.com
www.drdavidwilliams.com
www.divinecaroline.com
www.mindbodygreen.com
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