Blood pH and Alkaline/Acid Balance
All foods leave an ash behind after they are digested by stomach acids. This ash can be measured in terms of pH and is classified as either an acid or a base/alkaline on a scale of 0-14. All cells of the body have a specific pH which must be maintained to carry out their unique functions. Any change in pH disrupts the bioelectric charge of the cell needed to balance the internal fluids and regulate enymatic activity. The elements/minerals that control this balance are known as electrolytes.
Calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium and iron are the alkaline-forming minerals. Raw plant foods are rich in these nutrients. Acid-forming minerals like sulfur, phosphorus, iodine and chlorine, are also present in all natural foods, but in ratios that support our internal environment. Refined foods, cooked foods, alcohol, sugar, caffeine, dairy, nuts and grains are dominant in these acidifying elements.
Western diets are made up of about 20% alkaline-forming foods, and 80% acid-forming, where our ideal ratio should be 60% alkaline and 40% acidic! Because our blood must maintain a strict pH level of 7.35-7.45, if there are not the proper ratios provided in our foods, our internal reserves are used to neutralize the acids. Our bones, joints and vital organs are literally “mined” of the needed elements whenever the balance is compromised. For some of us, this process is instigated after every meal, all so that our cells can continue to work at peak efficiency. The result is an increasingly acidic state, which ultimately leads to disease.
Exercise, stress, smoking, negative emotions, sleep deprivation and pollution also promote acidosis. Relaxation techniques such as massage, acupuncture, calming music, deep breathing and meditation help to restore balance. But even the most die-hard yogis can’t maintain strong alkaline reserves without the support of a diet rich in the right nutrients. Consuming more fruits, veggies, and especially leafy greens is necessary to build these mineral “banks” so that we can withstand all the other stresses that inevitably threaten to acidify us.
So now what do you do? I suggest including some raw food with every meal. Cooked food is not only acid dominant, but is also less water-rich than raw foods, therefore unable to dilute excess acids in the blood. So being careful to not over-cook your meats is another strategy. I like to eat a large salad in the evening, loaded with colourful veggies and leafy greens. Limiting sugar and refined food can also take huge strain off the body. Finally, try to eliminate the major sources of emotional and mental stress from your life, and include nourishing practices like massage or yoga, or an evening walk after work. Over time, these habits will lead to deeper relaxation, increased oxygen to tissues and an improved removal of acidic wastes, meaning healthier, happier cells.
To learn how to shift to an alkaline dominant diet, speak with a Nutritionist to develop a strategy designed just for your tastes and needs.
Vancouver Personal Trainer Greg Smith- Kalev Training in Yaletown
w: http://www.KalevTraining.com
t: 604-518-4691
e: Kalev@KalevTraining.com
b: www.rippedmansecrets.com
