Alkalizing diets have been growing in popularity over the last decade. The adoption of plant-based diets has great leverage in their high levels of alkaline foods. By making healthy lifestyle choices and being aware of the effects your decisions have, you can help restore the pH balance in your body.
Though our body’s pH balance is crucial to staying optimally healthy, eating alkaline foods is not the cure-all for regulating blood pH.
In this article, we will explain the alkaline/acid balance in the simplest means possible.
Here are six surprising and simple ways to alkalize your body:
- Optimize digestion
- Breathe deeply
- Get your beauty sleep
- Follow a healthy diet
- Light exercise daily
- Lower your stress levels Here are six ways to alkalize your body:
First and foremost, there is a difference in urine pH and blood pH. The pH of our blood is what we want to have balance in, striving for a pH of 7.4, which the body will do naturally when free of pathological conditions.
Most experiments and studies use urine-based test strips to determine the pH. However, much more extensive tests have to be done in order to determine your actual blood pH. Eating an alkaline meal such as a salad or green smoothie will increase the alkalinity in your urine; however, urine pH is not an effective marker of your overall blood pH.
What is pH and How Does it Affect the Body?
The term pH stands for potential of hydrogen. It measures the acidity or alkalinity of the body from 0 to 14. The lower the number, the more acidic the body is. The ideal pH for the body is between 7.35 and 7.45. This number is slightly alkaline.
The kidneys are what determine the pH of our blood. Keeping our kidneys healthy involves numerous factors aside from what we eat. You may have heard somewhere that animal foods, which leave an acidic residue in the body, are damaging to the kidneys and therefore must affect the pH of the blood. I want to clear a bit of confusion here before moving on.
If the kidneys are what governs our blood’s pH, are acidic foods harder on the kidneys and therefore should be removed for optimal function?
The kidneys are well-equipped to digest “acid residues” from acidic foods. Whether these foods are from alkaline proteins such as hemp, broccoli, and quinoa or acidic proteins like meat, eggs, or even buckwheat, the kidneys will process them the same. Therefore, it is not about removing acidic proteins, which can have numerous benefits, from the diet. For example, though acidic in nature, eggs are one of the most reliable sources of fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and D.
Removing something from the diet simply because they are acidic in nature would be silly and in the long-run potentially cause other health-related issues. In the steps below, I will include a proper dietary approach to maintaining optimal pH as well as methods of keeping a healthy and properly alkaline body.
What Happens When Your Body is Alkaline?
Your body has a natural pH balance that’s slightly alkaline. When your body is in balance both pH-wise and hormonally, everything should feel like it’s in working order. Your energy, mood, and digestion should be ticking along, removing toxins from the body and staying balanced. When you experience a slightly alkaline pH, it’s thought to result in benefits like:
- Mental clarity
- High energy levels
- Well-functioning immune system
- Lower risk of inflammation
When your body’s pH is unbalanced and more acidic, your body is no longer in an optimal state. This can leave you feeling a little off. If your body is too acidic, over time, it may lead to problems like constipation, bloating, and fatigue. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get your body back on track and normalize your pH level. You can start alkalizing your body today and begin feeling the benefits.
Related: The Acid/Alkaline Balance in the Body
What Happens When the Body is Too Acidic?
When your body becomes overly acidic, it can trigger several health issues, including:
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Digestive problems like bloating and constipation
- Increased susceptibility to diseases such as cancer and osteoporosis
- Skin problems like acne or dullness
The human body works tirelessly to maintain a pH between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline. But poor lifestyle habits, stress, and unhealthy diets can disrupt this delicate balance.
11 Simple Ways to Alkalize Your Body
1. Drink Alkaline Water
Replace regular water with alkaline water to neutralize acidity. You can create your own by adding a slice of lemon or a pinch of baking soda. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily.
2. Eat More Leafy Greens
Incorporate spinach, kale, broccoli, and arugula into your meals. These greens are packed with chlorophyll, which is known for its alkalizing properties.
3. Prioritize Whole Foods
Opt for whole, unprocessed foods over packaged snacks. Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds naturally support a balanced pH.
4. Cut Down on Sugar
Sugar contributes to acidity and inflammation. Replace refined sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation.
5. Limit Acidic Foods
Reduce your intake of acid-forming foods like red meat, dairy, and processed grains. Balance these with alkalizing options like quinoa or sweet potatoes.
6. Incorporate Plant-Based Supplements
Supplements like Sunwarrior’s plant-based supplements can fill nutritional gaps while promoting alkalinity. Look for ones rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium.
7. Stay Hydrated
Hydration flushes out toxins and supports your body’s natural pH balance. Add a slice of cucumber or mint to your water for extra detox benefits.
8. Consume Probiotics
A healthy gut plays a crucial role in maintaining pH balance. Add fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, or probiotics supplements to your diet.
9. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity increases oxygen circulation, helping reduce acidity. Even light exercises like yoga or brisk walking can make a significant difference.
10. Try a Daily Multivitamin
Support your nutritional needs with Daily Multi-V to ensure your body gets the essential vitamins and minerals for maintaining alkalinity.
11. Manage Stress Effectively
Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which can lead to acidity. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or spend time in nature to relax and reduce stress.
The Role of Diet in Alkalizing
Consume Alkaline Foods
Certain foods are naturally alkaline and can help balance your pH levels. Some top picks include:
- Leafy greens like spinach and kale
- Avocados, sweet potatoes, and broccoli
- Citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges
Minimize Acidic Foods
Avoid or reduce processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive meat intake. Swap your coffee or soda for Ormus SuperGreens, a nutrient-rich drink that boosts alkalinity and promotes gut health.
Hydrate Smartly
Opt for water with a slice of cucumber or lemon to enhance its alkalizing properties. Alkaline water can be a helpful addition but may not be suitable for everyone.
The Role of Supplements in Alkalizing
Adding plant-based supplements like Sunwarrior’s Plant-Based Detox can provide essential minerals and antioxidants to support alkalinity. Additionally, products such as Silver Strength are great for maintaining overall vitality, especially as you age.
Scientific Viewpoints on Alkalizing the Body
While the body has a natural mechanism to regulate pH, studies suggest that dietary and lifestyle changes can improve overall health and reduce inflammation. However, experts agree that these changes mainly benefit digestive health, energy levels, and inflammation rather than directly altering blood pH.
Alkalizing Recipes to Try
Alkalizing Pear Pecan Salad
This refreshing salad combines pears, pecans, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious alkaline boost. Incorporating recipes like these into your diet makes alkalizing both simple and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Balancing your body’s pH levels is not just about making dietary changes but adopting a holistic lifestyle that supports overall health. From adding more leafy greens to your meals to incorporating relaxation techniques and supplements like Ormus SuperGreens, small steps can lead to big health improvements. Maintaining a slightly alkaline state boosts energy, enhances digestion, and supports your immune system, helping you thrive.
With these simple ways to alkalize, you can effortlessly nurture your body’s natural balance. Start today, and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more vibrant life!
FAQs
Can diet really affect the pH of your blood?
The body's blood pH remains stable under normal conditions. However, diet significantly impacts other aspects like urine pH and overall health.
What are the most alkaline foods I can eat?
Foods like kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, and lemons are highly alkaline. Adding a daily dose of Ormus SuperGreens can also enhance your intake.
How does stress affect the body’s acidity?
Stress increases cortisol production, which leads to higher acidity. Relaxation techniques like yoga and deep breathing help mitigate these effects.
Related: The Importance of Deep Breathing
Is drinking alkaline water beneficial for everyone?
While it can be beneficial for some, excessive consumption might disrupt natural stomach acid levels. Consult a healthcare professional before making it a regular part of your diet.
What are the symptoms of an overly acidic body?
Symptoms include fatigue, poor digestion, frequent infections, and skin issues like acne. Testing your pH levels using strips can help identify imbalances.
Can exercise help alkalize the body?
Yes! Exercise improves circulation and oxygenation, which reduces acidity. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming are particularly effective.
Are supplements necessary to alkalize?
Not always, but they can be beneficial in filling nutritional gaps. Look for plant-based supplements tailored to support alkalinity and detoxification.
What are some easy alkalizing recipes to try?
Smoothies with leafy greens, salads, and alkalizing soups are great options. For a quick fix, try the Alkalizing Pear Pecan Salad.
How can I test my body’s pH levels at home?
pH strips can measure saliva or urine pH. Blood pH testing, however, requires professional medical evaluation for accuracy.
Up Next:
- 5 Steps to Alkalize an Acidic Body
- Alkalizing Pear Pecan Salad
- Kombucha Tea--An Ancient Elixir
- 9 Quick and Easy Ways to Detoxify your Body!
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on April 18, 2014 and has been updated for quality and relevance.
COMMENTS
Renae
Very precise information that I needed. Thank you!