Acidity is alkaline. Alkalizing the body with baking soda at home - rules of administration, reviews

From this article you will learn all the most important things about the acid-base balance of the human body: what is the normal pH level of blood, urine, saliva, how to measure the pH of the body, what threatens pH imbalance, how to restore acid-base balance.

What is acid-base balance?

The ratio of acid and alkali in any solution is called acid-base balance or acid-base balance. The acid-base balance is characterized by a special pH indicator (powerHydrogen - the strength of hydrogen), which shows the number of hydrogen atoms in a given solution. At pH 7.0, they speak of a neutral environment. The lower the pH level, the more acidic the environment (from 6.9 to 0). An alkaline environment has a high pH level (from 7.1 to 14.0).

The human body has a certain acid-base ratio, characterized by pH (hydrogen) value. The pH value depends on the ratio between positively charged ions (forming an acidic environment) and negatively charged ions (forming an alkaline environment). The body constantly strives to balance this ratio, maintaining a strictly defined pH level. Violation of the acid-base balance can lead to serious illnesses.

How to check acid-base balance

You can check your acid-base balance using pH test strips. This is done quickly and easily in the following sequence:

Unpack the test strip.
Moisten it with urine or saliva.
Compare the reading on the test strip to the pH color chart included in the package.
Evaluate your results by correlating them with the time of day.

If the urine pH level fluctuates between 6.0-6.4 in the morning and 6.4-7.0 in the evening, then your body is functioning normally.

If the saliva pH level remains between 6.4-6.8 throughout the day, this also indicates the health of your body.

The most optimal pH level of saliva and urine is slightly acidic, in the range of 6.4-6.5. The best time to determine the pH level is 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Check the pH level 2 times a week 2-3 times a day.

Normal urine pH

Urine pH test results show how well the body absorbs minerals such as calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium. These minerals regulate acidity levels in the body. If the acidity is too high, the body must neutralize the acid. To neutralize excess acid that begins to accumulate in tissues, the body is forced to borrow minerals from various organs and bones. This way the acidity level is regulated.

Normal saliva pH

The results of salivary acid-base balance testing indicate the activity of enzymes in the digestive tract, especially the liver and stomach. This indicator gives an idea of the work of both the entire organism as a whole and its individual systems.

Sometimes there is increased acidity of both urine and saliva. In such cases we are talking about “double acidity”.

Acid-base balance of blood

The acid-base balance of the blood is one of the most stringent physiological constants of the body. Normally, this indicator can vary between 7.35-7.45. A shift of this indicator by at least 0.1 leads to dysfunction of the cardiorespiratory system. When the blood pH shifts by 0.3, serious changes occur in the functioning of the central nervous system (towards suppression of its functions or overexcitation), and a shift by 0.4, as a rule, is not compatible with life.

Increased acidity in the body

An imbalance in the pH of the body in most people manifests itself in the form of increased acidity (a state of acidosis). In this condition, the body has difficulty absorbing minerals such as calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium. Vital organs suffer from a lack of minerals. If not detected in time, acidosis can cause harm to the body gradually and unnoticed over several months and even years.

Causes of acidosis

Acidification of the body can happen for many reasons. Here are some of them:

alcohol abuse, smoking;
hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels);
liver and/or kidney failure;
poor nutrition;
hypoxia (low oxygen content in the body);
dehydration;
complications of diabetes;
severe inflammatory processes;
taking certain medications;
increased physical activity for a long time.

What does acidosis lead to?

Acidosis may cause the following problems:

diseases of the cardiovascular system, including persistent vasospasm, increased blood pressure, decreased oxygen concentration in the blood;
kidney and bladder diseases, stone formation;
breathing problems;
weight gain and diabetes;
bone fragility, as well as other disorders of the musculoskeletal system, for example, the formation of osteophytes (spurs);
joint pain and muscle pain associated with the accumulation of lactic acid;
decreased immunity;
increased harmful effects of free radicals, which can contribute to the development of cancer;
general weakness, severe disorders of autonomic functions.

Video by nutritionist Marina Stepanova about acid-base balance

Increased alkali content in the body

With an increased alkali content in the body (state of alkalosis), as with acidosis, the absorption of minerals is impaired. Food is digested much more slowly, which allows toxins to pass from the gastrointestinal tract into the blood. Violation of the acid-base balance towards alkali is dangerous and requires treatment in a hospital. It is usually the result of hyperventilation, severe vomiting, dehydration, or taking medications that contain alkali.

How to restore acid-base balance

During the vital activity of the body, both acidic and alkaline decomposition products are formed, and several times more of the former are formed than the latter. The body's defenses, ensuring the unchanged acid-base balance, are aimed at neutralizing and removing primarily acidic decomposition products. It is in your power to help your body maintain a healthy pH balance, first of all, by properly composing your diet.

Acid-base balance of products

Different foods have different ratios of acidic and alkaline minerals. Conventionally, all products can be divided into acidic and alkaline.

Acidity of products: 1-6 acidic, 7 neutral, 8-10 alkaline

Acidic foods include:

coffee, black tea, cocoa, all alcoholic drinks, canned juices;
sugar and all products containing it (sweets, chocolate, sweet carbonated drinks, sweetened juices and fruit drinks, jams and preserves, pickled fruits), artificial sweeteners;
baked goods (especially white flour), pasta, legumes (except fresh beans and peas), rice, buckwheat, corn, spotted and purple beans, peanuts, nuts (except almonds), oats, pumpkin and sunflower seeds ;
meat, poultry, fish;
eggs;
dairy products (except for fresh milk and very fresh homemade whey and cottage cheese);
oysters, mussels, shrimp, crayfish.

Alkaline foods include:

all fresh and dried fruits, freshly squeezed unsweetened fruit juices, berries;
all vegetables, vegetable juices, leafy greens, seaweed;
olive, flaxseed and canola (rapeseed) oil;
green and flower tea;
fresh honey (in combs);
mushrooms;
millet, wild rice;
breast milk;

Of course, we must consume both products (each product is useful in its own way), but at the same time maintain the proportion. There should be 2-3 times more alkaline foods in our menu than acidic foods.

Unfortunately, for various reasons, it is not always possible to maintain such a balance. A very good addition to proper nutrition are dietary supplements.

Products for alkalization

NSP offers a wide range of products that can regulate pH levels. Here are some of them:

As you know, the most important mineral for regulating pH balance is calcium. – a source of bioavailable calcium and magnesium with a strong alkalizing effect.
– contains calcium and magnesium in an easily digestible chelated form, also helps neutralize acids.
– another dietary supplement with a strong alkalizing effect. Can be taken for a long time.

The human body is a complex and amazingly well-functioning mechanism. All organs and systems in a state of health work flawlessly, in accordance with the established program, until external factors or mistreatment by a loved one unbalance the interaction inherent from birth. Alkalinizing the body with soda will help restore it. Let's talk about this in more detail.

Why is it necessary to alkalize the body?

To protect us from premature destruction, wise nature has provided 12 constants, which we cannot violate without directed self-destruction. Parameters that are the same for all include blood pressure, the number of breaths and heartbeats per minute, body temperature, hemoglobin and bilirubin content, blood sugar level, acid-base balance, etc.

Alkalinization of the body with baking soda and food has become of interest to humanity relatively recently. The problem of acidification exists, but it has not reached catastrophic proportions - the body exists in an alkaline environment with an optimal level of 7.43, and the self-regulating system restores the pH balance. If the alkali content in the blood drops to 7.1, instant death occurs, which is usually diagnosed as cardiovascular failure.

You can alkalize your body with food or soda.

A persistent acid-base imbalance indicates life-threatening conditions; they cannot be ignored, and in this case, taking baking soda cannot be avoided.

A person who cares about his health should take into account the acid-alkali indicators when preparing a diet, since most of the foods and liquids that we consume are acidic.

What is pH level

The pH indicator indicates the content of hydrogen ions in the blood. A neutral environment has a level of 7, below this level the environment is acidic, above it is alkaline. The range in which our body can exist is limited to 7.35 – 7.45, that is, the blood must be more alkaline than neutral water. Only in such an environment do blood circulation, breathing, hormone production and other processes proceed normally.

The abbreviation pH is derived from the Latin Potentia Hydrogenii - the effectiveness (strength) of hydrogen. Each cell of the body produces energy, which produces carbon dioxide and other acids.

Normal acidity levels differ for different fluids of the human body. For example, the pH of urine in infants is 8, and in an unhealthy adult it is 4. This means that an ideally healthy newborn is much less acidic than an adult. It must be admitted that with age, acidity inevitably increases, and the high alkali content in newborns is explained by the fact that for 9 months they were in the alkaline environment of amniotic fluid.

Health is the most valuable gift that Nature has endowed people with.

If the pH is disturbed

Maintaining the balance of alkali and acid does not require effort - if a person is healthy and leads a normal lifestyle, the adjustment occurs in “automatic mode”. Going beyond the limits leads to life-threatening conditions, but the regulation process is ensured by the body's buffer systems - hemoglobin, kidneys, lungs, and liver remove excess acid.

If too many acids remain during the metabolic process, they are neutralized by the body's alkalis - sodium, potassium, sodium and potassium. As a result of the replacement of hydrogen, compounds are formed that we know as salts. Neutralized acids are chemically neutral, but the kidneys do not always cope with their complete elimination, and then the salts form what is colloquially called waste and are deposited in the connective tissue. This is similar to a supersaturated solution in which the precipitate turns into a dense lump over time.

The more acidified the blood is, the less salts dissolve. When deposited, they pollute the tissues of the body and poison it. The most obvious manifestation is aging and age-related diseases, primarily heart and vascular diseases.

The dangers of acidification and the benefits of alkalization

Why Otto Warburg received the Nobel Prize

Otto Warburg was an outstanding German cytologist who studied redox processes in a living cell. In 1931, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for his research into the connection between oxygen and cancer.

No disease, including cancer, can exist in an alkaline environment, Dr. Warburg believed

Warburg found that pathogenic bacteria and viruses lose their viability if the body is well supplied with oxygen. He associated this process with the pH level in liquids. The scientist discovered a connection between low oxygen levels in the atmosphere and chronic cellular energy deficiency and cancer. Otto Warburg's discoveries were fundamental for biochemistry, but they were perceived ambiguously in the scientific world.

In general terms, the essence of the German scientist’s statements was that healthy cells are nourished through the oxidative breakdown of organic acids, while cancer cells receive energy from the breakdown of glucose. The tumor cell enters an autonomous existence and reproduces uncontrollably. Only recently in the United States were found undeniable confirmation of Warburg's theory.

With a lack of oxygen, all body fluids become acidified, thereby creating a favorable environment for the growth of malignant cells and the development of many diseases. Scientists claim that if it is possible to create a stable alkaline environment, cancerous tumors will be defeated. The specialized literature describes clinical cases from the beginning of the last century, when, after surgical manipulations, a tampon soaked in caustic soda was applied to an open wound for 20 minutes. After this, the incision was sutured and the development of cancer stopped.

Otto Warburg and his followers found out:

Creating an alkaline environment with the help of calcium allows cancer patients in the final stages to be brought back to life.
In an acidic environment, pathogenic organisms actively develop and die during alkalization - this fact has been tested and confirmed many times.
In an attempt to balance pH levels, the body uses existing calcium, leaching it from bone tissue. This sooner or later leads to disorders of the musculoskeletal system, osteoporosis, tooth decay, and hair loss.
An acidic reaction promotes the formation of kidney stones.
Saliva with high acidity disrupts the microflora of the oral mucosa, stomatitis often develops, and ulcers appear.
Sodium and magnesium are washed out of the body, which affects the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.
A favorable environment is created for fungal diseases.

A set of diagnoses familiar to most people who have crossed the threshold of 40 years is formed after a long period of acidification. In the first half of life, the body compensates for the level of alkali by using internal resources, but with age, the deficiency of alkali becomes critical, and the time comes to take active steps to maintain health.

You can check the acid-base balance using litmus strips

Alkalization – combating acidification

Doctors recognize the benefits of alkalization; the easiest way to achieve optimal alkaline-acid levels is through diet or baking soda. It is necessary to understand that the task is not to fill the body with alkali as much as possible, but to balance the pH.

Excess alkali in body fluids leads to alkalosis. In its extreme development, this condition is life-threatening. People who are too keen on alkalization have flabby and dry skin - this is what raw foodists who refuse animal protein often look like.

The blood reaction of a healthy person is slightly alkaline. Indicators should remain between 7.35 and 7.45 - deviation in any direction is pathological.

Acidification of the body is called acidosis; this condition is much more common than alkalosis (alkalinization). It is much easier to cure alkalosis; it is usually enough to include acidic foods in the diet. Restoring balance when there is excess acid requires a lot of effort.

If acidity is significantly increased, the body signals this:

Decreased immunity, usually manifested in frequent colds.
Hair loss, brittle nails and bones, caries - calcium is spent on alkalization.
Lethargy and constant fatigue due to the destruction of enzymes.
Edema, puffiness of the face - the body does not remove water well.

It is better to prevent any disease than to treat it - this rule fully applies to alkalization. Do not start acidification - over the years it becomes more and more difficult for the body to compensate for the lack of alkali, sooner or later you will no longer be able to ignore the symptoms.

Video: Maxim Chechetov about acidification and alkalization of the body

When is alkalization required?

You can guess that the body has become acidic, but the diagnosis of “acidosis” can only be made by a doctor based on symptoms and laboratory tests. A specialist will tell you how much soda you need to take, usually the dose ranges from a pinch to one teaspoon in a glass of water. The dosage should be increased gradually.

Before visiting a doctor, it would be a good idea to test with litmus strips. You can buy them at the pharmacy, the testing process is simple, detailed instructions are included in each package of litmus indicators.

Unbalanced diet

You can conclude that your pH balance is imbalanced by analyzing which foods you prefer.

Acidic foods - meats, cheeses and dairy products, grains.
Neutral foods are legumes and nuts.
Alkaline - fruits and vegetables, lettuce, potatoes and melons.

In many cases, to alkalize, it is enough to adjust the diet without using baking soda.

Serious health problems

If you suffer from mycoses, have infertility, have been diagnosed with a bacterial disorder or oncology, the cause may be blood acidification. It is unlikely that baking soda will help you fully recover, but the alkaline reaction will create favorable conditions for recovery.

Any disease is easier to prevent than to treat

Cancer and alkalization of the body

From time to time, information appears in the media about a new cure for cancer or a 100% cure method. I would like to believe that one day the disease will be defeated, but so far scientists do not even have a common opinion about the causes of cancer. Otto Warburg's discovery made it possible to advance our understanding of the causes of malignant tumors, but it is too early to celebrate victory while more than 7 million people die from cancer every year.

The connection between lung cancer and smoking has already been proven, but in many cases this is not clear. For example, stomach cancer is more common in Russia and Japan than in other countries, and scientists attribute this to the traditional consumption of starchy foods and a deficiency of animal protein, fresh fruits and vegetables. At the same time, New Zealanders suffer especially often from pancreatic cancer, and this fact is interpreted as a consequence of excess meat in the diet. It is also puzzling that in Hungary, 313 people per 100,000 people die from cancer every year, while in nearby Macedonia, with similar food traditions, this figure is only 6.

A healthy lifestyle significantly improves its quality

We have to admit that the main discoveries in the fight against oncology are still to come, miracle drugs do not yet exist, but a healthy lifestyle prolongs life and improves its quality. Since acidosis promotes the processes of rotting and fermentation, and these phenomena are risk factors, controlling acidity and alkalizing the body is useful.

How does alkalization affect hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a complex protein that supplies the organs with oxygen, which we inhale along with air. Having delivered oxygen, hemoglobin “picks up” carbon dioxide from the tissues and delivers it to the lungs for removal during exhalation. We cannot live without oxygen, which means we critically need protein taxis. The work of all organs and systems depends on the concentration of hemoglobin, so most laboratory tests begin with an analysis of Hb.

measured - from 145 to 225 g/l, after a week the level drops to 135–215 g/l and continues to fall until it reaches the normal “adult” level of 120 to 150 g/l. Deviations are considered physiological only during pregnancy, and after 45 years, the upper limit moves to 160-180 g/l.

An increased concentration of hemoglobin usually indicates diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, heart, asthma, allergies or tumors.
Hb below normal is called anemia, and it can be mild, moderate or severe. The cause of anemia is poor digestion of food, autoimmune diseases, bleeding, tumors, and infections. However, a temporary decrease in level can be associated with injuries, blood donation, low-calorie diet, etc.

Low hemoglobin levels are one of the main signs of acidification. When the body is busy eliminating acidosis, it uses internal reserves, including iron. Oxygen does not reach tissues well, and the result is always chronic fatigue, irritability, insomnia, etc. It is almost impossible to normalize hemoglobin levels without alkalization - these processes are closely related.

It is not possible to determine the degree of acidification of the body on your own - you need to consult a doctor

Alkalizing the body with baking soda

It is not worth starting alkalization without objective indications for this - oversaturation with alkali is no less dangerous than acidification of the body. Consult your doctor; perhaps, to balance the alkali-acidity, it is enough to introduce alkaline foods into the diet, bringing their percentage to 80%. Pure water helps balance the pH - drink 1.5-2 liters per day between meals, this often helps bring the values back to normal.

If you decide to undergo a course of soda therapy, choose a method and follow the recommended rules and dosages of soda.

Baths

Water procedures with a soda solution alkalize the body well, drawing out toxins and waste through the skin. Baths with soda are effective for relieving skin irritations due to allergies. Dissolve a pack of baking soda in the bath (+40°C) and soak in the water for 60 minutes. Course - 10 days.

A foot bath also helps remove toxins - soak your feet in a warm baking soda solution for at least an hour.

Enemas

To improve bowel function, do a soda cleanse. Boil 800 ml of water, cool to 40°C, dissolve 30 g of baking soda and give an enema. Try to hold the water for at least 15-20 minutes. Course - 7 days every other day. After a week's break, the course can be repeated.

Solutions for oral administration

To normalize the acidity of gastric juice

Dissolve half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of hot water and drink slowly. The course can be continued from 7 to 14 days.

For blood alkalization

Dissolve a third of a teaspoon in 100 ml of hot water. Drink in small sips once a day. A course of 7-14 days can be repeated after 10 days. For preventive purposes, drink a soda solution once a week; with this regimen, breaks are not needed.

Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe

The benefits of apple cider vinegar for digestion and healthy intestinal microflora have been known for a long time. It turns out that this product helps in alkalizing the body. For 7 days, dilute 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 200-250 ml of water and drink this solution between meals. The course can be repeated after 7 days.

Sometimes, to normalize the pH balance, it is enough to take solutions with soda

Recipe with lime

Experts say that alkalization can be carried out using lemons or limes; the effect is explained by the reaction of the blood when absorbing citrus substances. Before meals, drink a glass of water with a few drops of lime juice once a day. Tea and other drinks with lime work similarly.

Contraindications to alkalization with soda

Alkalinization with soda is not a harmless procedure. Taking a soda solution orally can disrupt protein metabolism; in addition, in case of poisoning, soda inhibits the elimination of fat-soluble toxins. Against this background, conditions are created that are favorable for the development of life-threatening conditions.

Sharp alkalization with soda should not be carried out! Gradually increase the dose of soda to the maximum allowable. With prolonged use of baking soda, alkalosis can develop.

Possible consequences of taking soda orally:

Disturbance of intestinal microflora, irritation of the mucous membrane.
Deposition of salts in the liver, joints, kidneys.
Poor ventilation.
Bloating, indigestion.
Increased blood pressure, swelling.

Video: Olga Butakova about alkalization with soda

Preventing acidification

In the vast majority of cases, acidification is associated with an unbalanced diet, but often the reasons lie in stress and overwork. The acid-base balance is maintained by the body, which under normal conditions will quickly restore the optimal pH ratio. Analyze how you eat, plan your menu so that your food is 80% alkaline, get enough sleep and try to be less nervous - and you won't have to choose the alkalizing method.

Table of acidifying and alkalizing products

The sour taste of a product does not always mean that it has an acidifying effect; many fruits alkalize the blood. The numbers in the table will help you create a menu taking into account the product’s ability to alkalize or acidify the blood.

Acidifying and alkalizing products

We cannot say with complete confidence that soda will solve the problem of acidification - an integrated approach with a healthy diet, physical activity, alternation of work and rest, a favorable emotional background and clean ecology is required. If you pull out at least one element from this chain, the body will have to compensate for the shortcomings, and it is difficult to predict what the load will lead to. Alkalinization is one of the necessary conditions for health, but it must be used in conjunction with other requirements.

Video: Professor Neumyvakin on acid-base balance

Health

How are you doing with your acid-base balance? Did you know that our body has an ideal pH level of 7.365?

When the balance is disturbed, various diseases arise in our body.

Our habits such as sleep, stress, smoking and most of all the foods we consume affect the pH level in our body.

How to determine whether the acid-base balance in your body is disturbed, and what needs to be done to restore it.

Acid-base state

Signs your body is too acidic

The more acidic your body is, the more difficult it is for your immune system to fight disease, bacteria, and even cancer.

If your diet is dominated by meat, dairy, sugar and processed foods, your body is forced to use alkaline minerals (calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium) to neutralize the excess acid that forms.

This depletes vital mineral reserves, which has a negative impact on health. Some scientists even believe that severe acidosis may promote the growth of malignant cells and tumors.

Here are some signs that your body is too acidic:

Sore or sensitive gums

Respiratory system diseases

Lethargy, loss of strength

Excess weight

Joint pain due to lactic acid buildup

Allergies

Acne or dry skin

Frequent colds or weakened immune system

Poor blood circulation (cold hands and feet)

Brittle, thinning hair

Fungal diseases

Insomnia, chronic headaches

Bone spurs, brittle bones

Kidney and bladder infections

Pain in the neck, back and lower back

Premature aging

Problems with the cardiovascular system: vasoconstriction, arrhythmia

Signs that your body is too alkaline

Most often it occurs when there is excess bicarbonate in the blood, a sudden loss of blood acidity, or low carbon dioxide levels. The cause of this condition may be some kind of disease, but what if the pH level rises above 7.8? the condition may become critical.

Here are the main signs that your body is too alkaline:

muscle cramps

Spasms

Increased irritability

Tingling in the toes or hands, or around the mouth

How to restore the acid-base balance in the body?

Our body is an amazing system that itself is capable of restoring the acid-base balance. However, when a shift occurs in one direction or another, it comes at a high price.

For example, when our body becomes too acidic, the blood takes away alkaline-forming elements from digestive enzymes and creates a less favorable environment for digestion.

It is for this reason that the food we consume can affect the development of certain diseases. The body takes away from one area to balance the pH and prevents other functions from working properly.

Our diet mainly consists of oxidizing foods (meat, grains, sugar). We eat far fewer alkalizing foods like vegetables and fruits, and there isn't enough to neutralize the excess acidifying foods we eat.

Habits like smoking, addiction to coffee and alcohol have an oxidizing effect on the body.

Our body is about 20 percent acidic and 80 percent alkaline. It is recommended to consume approximately 20 percent oxidizing foods and 80 percent alkalizing foods..

Acid-base balance should not be confused with stomach acidity. A healthy stomach has an acidic pH level, which is necessary for digestion of food. We are talking about the pH of biological fluids, cells and tissues. Alkalinity occurs mainly after digestion. For example, lemons and oranges are considered acidic, but once digested, they provide alkaline minerals to our body.

Products may be oxidizing or alkalizing And. Do you prefer fresh fruits and vegetables, such as lemons, apricots, grapes, pears, cabbage? beets, lettuce, cucumbers. Also drink more water and avoid sugary sodas.

If you think that you suffer from alkalosis(excess alkali), you first need to find out the reason. For example, you may be taking medications that cause potassium and chlorine deficiency. Severe vomiting can also lead to metabolic alkalosis.

Here are some more small tips on how to regulate your body's pH levels.

Drink more water

Eat less acid-forming foods

Eat greens and kale more often

Avoid processed foods and fast food

Include green juices and smoothies in your diet

Exercise

Meditate to reduce stress

Hello my friends! In this article we will talk about another fundamental concept of our existence. This acid-base balance or acid-base balance organism - pH.

I briefly touched on this concept in the article about Water. () But this topic is very important, so it is necessary to pay special attention to it.

pH indicator, acid-base balance, acid-base balance– one of the most important indicators for the human body.

This indicator was discovered by American scientists only in the 21st century. They found that any food or drink has another important property for us - it is the acid load on the body.

Acid load of food (acid-base index)- this is an indicator consisting of the ratio of components that form acid during the digestion process.

Some foods produce more acid, others less. Depending on this indicator, food and drinks can be divided into acidic , alkaline And neutral .

If food contains more acid-forming components or organic acids (fats, carbohydrates), then the acid load has a positive value.

If the food contains more components that form alkali (organic salts of magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium), then the acid load has a negative value.

The larger the positive value, the more acidic the product and the more harmful it is to our body.

The greater the negative value, the less acidity, and the more alkaline the product.

All these acids naturally enter our body fluids.

But despite this, throughout our life the body keeps the pH of our internal fluids in a very small and surprisingly stable range. Whatever happens to us, whether we are hot or cold, whether we are sick or healthy, whether we are full or hungry, what we ate and drank, what kind of lifestyle we lead, these indicators are stable and change very little.

Arterial blood pH = 7.35-7.45;
Venous blood pH = 7.26-7.36;
Lymph pH = 7.35-7.40;
pH of intercellular fluid = 7.26-7.38;
pH of intra-articular fluid = 7.3.

All life processes take place at these values and under no circumstances can and should not deviate even by 10% from this range. It is in this range, at a given level of acidity, that hormones and enzymes work in the body, the immune system works, chemical reactions occur, microorganisms that are beneficial to our body and participate in the digestion process multiply and feel good. This is how we are designed and there is nothing we can do about it. Someone conceived us exactly this way, and a lot depends on this indicator: neither more nor less – our life.

At pH = 7.05, a person falls into a pre-comatose state, at pH = 7.00, coma occurs, and at pH = 6.80, death occurs. As you can see, the range limits are very small, and excess acidity (pH< 7) организма – смертельна.

This indicator can only be violated from the outside. That's right, it's all food's fault. The more acidic foods you consume, the more acidic the internal environment of the body becomes, the more strength and resources the body needs to keep acidity within its proper limits. We constantly test our body’s endurance by bombarding it with acidic foods, which leads to its acidification.

Unfortunately, almost all foods are acidic, and anything processed and cooked is definitely sour.

Based on the analysis, scientists compiled tables of acidity of products ( data taken from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2002; 76 (6): 1308—1316").

You ask: “How can this be? What, all food turns out to be harmful to the body? How did a person even survive? How can this be?”

Let's try to figure it out. Let's return to our origins. Regardless of what you believe: whether man was created by God, or we were once brought to Earth by aliens, or descended from apes, man was placed in the same conditions as other living organisms on our Planet. His body, in order to survive precisely in those conditions, was maximally adapted for this. Then there was no Coca-Cola and beer, there was only clean water - people drank water. There were no supermarkets then; ancient man walked through the forest and ate only what grew on a tree or on the ground. To get meat, it was necessary to hunt a mammoth for a long time. And it’s good if it happened once a month to still fill it up.
According to anthropologists, the diet of ancient man consisted of 1/3 of lean meat of wild animals and 2/3 of plant foods. In addition, the food was almost unprocessed. On the entire Earth, only humans drink anything other than water and process food. Which, sorry, was not provided for initially.

As you can see, man was adapted specifically for life in the conditions provided to him for this. Everything he could eat: greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts and roots have little acidity; all he could drink was neutral water. And sour foods (meat, for example) were rarely available to him. Therefore, meat was beneficial as a source of protein and other essential substances, and the harm was easily neutralized by a strong and resilient body. Therefore, food in those harsh conditions was exclusively alkaline in nature. The acid load of ancient man's food averaged minus 78. Under such conditions, it was easy for the body to maintain an acid balance.

The mechanism of regulation of acid-base balance by the body

One of the main functions of the body since ancient times, in order for us to live, is to constantly, day and night, maintain the acid-base balance, acid-base balance.

Let me give you an example. I think many of you have heard the following expression: “Soda (Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola, lemonade, it doesn’t matter) are harmful to the body because they wash out calcium.” Well, they are harmful, so harmful - living in general is harmful! You can't protect yourself from everything. Did I guess your train of thought? I think yes. Whatever you say, we all think the same. But, nevertheless, if we have already delved into this topic, let’s ask: “How is this? How does soda remove calcium? Why is this harmful?

Everything is very simple. The answer to this question is connected precisely with the process of maintaining the pH of our body in the range established for it.

So, the body has in its arsenal four alkaline minerals, which, according to chemical laws, are able to neutralize acid: calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium. All this must be stored somewhere, but not just like that, but also performing certain functions. Calcium is stored in the bones, potassium in the heart, magnesium in the kidneys. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium are among the top four “ mandatory” minerals. Their deficiency is dangerous for the body.

When we eat something sour, and this acid, entering the blood, tries to upset the established balance, acidify us, the body instantly reacts and sends alkaline elements into the blood, which are at its disposal to suppress it. First, he takes what he has most - calcium, and calcium is, as you know, in the bones. Magnesium works in tandem with calcium, so it also follows it.

We drink sour soda, the acid enters the blood, the brain gives the order to neutralize the excess acid, releasing calcium, calcium is taken from the bones and neutralizes the acid, the crisis is over, the acid is extinguished, balance is restored. Calcium is “washed out”. That's all.

Now the only thing left to do is to replenish the calcium reserves in the bones. And the body is waiting for you to give it calcium to replenish its reserves. The mechanism is unique and simple.

But what is really happening?

We don't like to eat alkaline foods: vegetables, fruits, greens. This means that the food consumed is more acidic and more calcium is needed. We prefer meat, chips, cookies, soda, candy, and beer. Where's the calcium? There is no calcium in all this.

Acid is constantly supplied. The poor body sends and sends new portions of calcium, taking it away from the bones, and its return is small. We don’t even like milk and cottage cheese, and some people are even intolerant to it. And if we drink milk, then it does not contain enough calcium, milk is not like that now. Only a glass of fresh fresh cow's milk contains the amount of calcium the body needs per day. You need to drink a bucket of processed milk from the package. Unreal.

The body is approaching a critical limit; calcium and magnesium can no longer be taken from the bones, otherwise they will collapse, but the bones are already suffering and getting sick (osteoporosis). Our joints, also deprived of calcium and magnesium, begin to get sick and break down.

The body turns to the heart and takes potassium from it. The heart gives up its potassium and also begins to hurt.

The body turns to the kidneys. The kidneys give up their supply of minerals (everything to the front, everything to defeat the acid) and also get sick.

These are the melodramatic passions that boil in our bodies.

And all this is due to the acid-base balance, which our hard-working body must constantly maintain in a limited range, avoiding dangerous deviations.

But this is just an example, things are actually even worse: these minerals are also found in other organs, they take part in a huge number of processes occurring inside us, so if there is a shortage of them, the situation is even more tragic. Everything suffers. In addition, calcium cannot be absorbed without magnesium. And someday scientists will discover that these minerals cannot be absorbed even without something else. Everything is possible. There are enough problems.

So, the acid-base balance is constantly disturbed by us for one reason - food and drink. Our food, unfortunately, for the most part, is acidic, that is, its pH value is below 7. In addition, all this does not contain in the required quantity, if at all, alkaline minerals and other elements necessary for the body, which results in a vicious circle. There is more and more acid, and the supply of substances necessary for the body to suppress it is less and less.

Why is acidification of the body dangerous?

A decrease in pH in the body leads to a decrease in immunity and the appearance of more than 200 diseases, including farsightedness and cataracts, chondrosis and arthrosis, gallstones and kidney stones, and oncology.

When the immune system is weakened and impaired, viruses, bacteria, and fungi begin to multiply rapidly in an acidic environment. With strong immunity, when the blood pH is normal, foreign bacteria and microorganisms will not be able to live and reproduce.

When acid enters, the body releases calcium in large quantities, even in excess. Then the excess calcium must be removed, but the body, unfortunately, does not send it back to the bones, but deposits it in the form of crystals in the joints, on other surfaces of the bones, in the kidneys, and in the gall bladder. Very often, in patients with osteoporosis, there is excess calcium in the blood, but there is none in the bones. The body constantly takes it away.

In the acidic environment of the body, vitamins, minerals and other essential micronutrients are poorly absorbed. Lack of nutrients leads to diseases of all organs and systems.

Excess acid plus lack of sufficient water makes urine thick, acidic and saturated with various salts and poisons, creating ideal conditions for the formation of kidney stones, kidney disease and kidney failure.

Chronic fatigue and weakness, weakening and pain in the muscles occur. And weakness of bones and muscles leads to weakening, disease and destruction of joints.

A constant acidic environment in the mouth destroys teeth and causes gum disease.

When the pH is restored to normal, health is restored, the main thing is not to be late. The body has amazing capabilities for recovery, but it needs conditions and nutrition for this. One of the conditions is a more neutral alkaline environment.

How to determine the acidity level of the body?

It is difficult for us to independently determine the acidity of blood or lymph. But determining the acidity of urine and saliva is quite possible. Depending on the foods consumed, these liquids immediately change. You can check acidity using litmus papers.

If the urine pH is between 6.0 - 6.4 in the morning and 6.4 - 7.0 in the evening, then your body is functioning normally. These indicators can also serve to determine how well the body absorbs calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium. If everything is normal, then there are enough minerals to regulate the level of acidity in the body.

Now the saliva. If the saliva pH level is between 6.4 - 6.8 throughout the day, this also indicates the health of your body. But remember, to measure the pH of saliva, for a more accurate result, it is necessary for 10 days, every hour. This is the only way to more accurately determine your acid-base balance.

If the pH deviates from the norm, take immediate action. Even if everything is fine and your indicators are normal, take measures so that you don’t have to regret it in the future. Am I in vain writing all this?

I'll end here. What to do with increased acidity in the body and what to do to avoid this before it’s too late, we’ll talk in the next article on.

All the best, don't get sick.

According to experts, very high body acidity disrupts the normal functioning of organ systems. Acid-base balance is the key to good health. Determine if the level is elevated acidity in the body, the pH allows.

This is the so-called hydrogen index, or a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in our body. The acidity level of the environment is assessed on a fourteen-point scale. The maximum acidity corresponds to an indicator of 1, a more neutral environment corresponds to 7, and the maximum alkaline environment is rated at 14.

Good health corresponds to pH values from 7.3 to 7.45, however, environmental pollution, poor diet, and stress can increase levels body acidity and reduce pH.

When the pH decreases, the blood reacts to this, it becomes less of the nutrients necessary for the normal functioning of vital organs. As a result, a person constantly experiences fatigue, he has headaches, digestive problems, demineralization of nails and hair occurs.

Why is it important to control our body's pH?

By slightly alkalizing our body, it is protected from many diseases. Conversely, when acidity levels are elevated, the likelihood of disease increases. Then we are threatened by diseases such as diabetes, obesity, migraine, cataracts, cancer, arthritis, allergies, osteoporosis.

Nutrition and pH

Everything we eat or drink affects our pH - for better or worse. Some foods increase the acidity level in our body, while others help alkalize it.

In general, animal products such as meat and dairy products increase acidity levels. Fruits and vegetables alkalize the body. Since the body needs acid-base balance, it is important to ensure a balance between these two types of food.

If possible, you should avoid foods that greatly increase acidity. These are, first of all, fast food and processed products (refined and the like).

How can we reduce the acidity of the body and achieve acid-base balance?

In addition to nutrition, other things can disrupt the acid-base balance. Therefore, it is necessary, as far as possible, Avoid using household chemicals and hygiene products containing toxic substances.

Instead, you need to choose natural remedies. And also adhere to the following recommendations:

First, you need to include more greens in your diet and drink a green smoothie daily.
Secondly, you should drink a glass of warm water with lemon on an empty stomach in the morning. Although lemon is sour, citric acid is an excellent alkalizing agent.

Eat more fruits and vegetables (preferably those with green leaves), and eat them raw.
Try not to eat processed foods or fried foods.
Avoid refined foods such as sugar and flour.
Drink more good quality water, preferably purified.
Use natural cleaning products such as baking soda, lemon and vinegar.

Be careful when choosing skin care products and cosmetics. After all, many of them contain toxic substances. As far as possible, use natural remedies for hair, skin, teeth, etc. care.
Try to have a diet containing a lot of plant products and relatively few animal products. In this case, it is desirable that the animal be raised on pasture.
Include foods such as wheatgrass, barley, kelp, cayenne pepper and spirulina in your diet.
Drink a glass of water daily with a spoonful of soda dissolved in it.

Are you still unsure whether you should change your diet and lifestyle to regulate your pH? As you can see, it is not difficult to reduce the acidity of the body and restore the acid-base balance.

To alkalize the body and enjoy health, we just need to make a few changes in our diet and lifestyle.