Acid–base homeostasis
A proper diet is one of the key elements of a healthy lifestyle. Latest research shows, however, that even supplying good quality, diversified food with appropriate calorific value may not be enough. It is important to keep the acid-base homeostasis of the body.
The ability to maintain the balance translates directly into the way in which the organism functions and in effect, into the quality of life.
Learn the basics
In order to maintain the acid-base homeostasis and therefore enjoy good health, human blood must stay within a narrow range from 7.35 to 7.45 of the pH scale. The pH range is from 0 to 14, with 7.0 being neutral; anything above 7.0 is alkaline, anything below 7.0 is considered acidic.
Most of the foods we eat nowadays are acid-forming. The symptoms of acidification of the body are: chronic exhaustion, bloating, reflux, heartburn, joint and muscle ache, headaches, eczema, hair fall and others. The list of diseases resulting from bad diet is just as long, and for this reason it is never too early to change your eating habits.
Wreaking havoc
The body needs a number of nutrients and chemicals to function properly. If they are not supplied, it has to compensate for the lack thereof. Similarly, acidified body tries to fight and uses all its reserves to bind the acids and neutralize them. This may lead to weakening or even damage of internal organs.
Over-acidification of body cells causes the non-neutralized acids to be deposited in the connective tissue and cartilages. Some of the many results are early aging and chronic fatigue syndrome. Acidification has a negative influence on blood cells and capillaries which leads to oxygen deficiency and lack of energy.
Healthy equals balanced
According to their chemical composition, acid-forming foods are those containing sulfur, chlorine and phosphorus. On the contrary, foods containing calcium, sodium, magnesium and potassium are considered to be alkaline-forming.
Unfortunately acid-forming foods predominate in our cultural circle. Animal products (meat, dairy etc.), cereals and cereal products, sugar and artificial sweeteners, coffee, chocolate, black tea or beer prevail over alkaline-forming fruits and vegetables.
How to avoid
acidification?
Over-acidified body loses glutamine from the muscles, so maintaining acid-base balance is crucial to prevent muscle catabolism.
