In order for the metabolic processes in our body to run optimally, we need a pH level in the blood of about 7.4. The acid-base balance of our body ensures that this pH level is maintained. However, according to the concept of alkaline nutrition, which originates from alternative medicine and has not yet been scientifically proven, we eat too many “acidic” foods in modern times. As a result, the acid-base balance can get out of sync. By acidic foods are meant foods that form acids in the organism.
Prevent hyperacidity
If the acid-base balance of our body is disturbed in the long term, this can result in a wide variety of secondary diseases. By eating foods rich in bases or through dietary supplements such as base tabs or base powders, one should be able to prevent hyperacidity of the body.
Acid-base balance
The acid-base balance describes a regulatory system of the body, which ensures that the pH value in the blood is kept constant at 7.4. This slightly alkaline pH is regulated by various parameters: for example, acids or bases can be neutralized by the buffering properties of the blood. In addition, they can be excreted via the lungs or kidneys.
In alternative medicine, however, it is argued that if too many “acidic” foods are consumed, the acid-base balance gets out of sync and can no longer be regulated. In the long term, this is said to lead to chronic hyperacidity (acidosis) of the body.
What happens during hyperacidity?
Overacidification of the body can occur, for example, due to too much stress, alcohol, nicotine or the excessive consumption of “acidic” foods. Consequently, the body works at full speed to restore the balance. For the increased buffer work, especially many alkaline minerals such as phosphate or calcium are needed. These minerals neutralize the acids and salts are formed.
Alternative medicine believes that our excretory organs are overburdened with the large amount of salts that occur during hyperacidity. That is why the salts are stored in the connective tissue, for example, which can lead to hardening, but also to wrinkles or cellulite. The first signs of hyperacidity are fatigue, malaise and lack of energy.
If hyperacidity persists for years, it becomes chronic and can lead to a host of other diseases. These include, for example:
- Osteoporosis
- Muscle stiffness
- Arteriosclerosis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
It is also problematic that the increased consumption of alkaline minerals in hyperacidity can lead to a deficiency of these minerals. This, in turn, can lead to further secondary diseases.
Acidic and alkaline foods
We absorb various minerals through our food. Some of the minerals are base-forming, while others are acid-forming. Acid-forming minerals include phosphorus, iodine and chlorine, while base-forming minerals include iron, magnesium, calcium and potassium. Our body needs both acid-forming and base-forming minerals, but in a certain ratio: this should be about 25:75 between acid and base foods.
Acidic foods include, for example:
- Fish and meat
- Dairy products
- Pasta
- Rice
- Bread
- Sugar
- Honey
- Alcohol
On the other hand, most fruits and vegetables are considered alkaline foods.
