An optimal pH level is important for all living beings. As for the human body, the optimal pH level in blood serum is 7.4 (7.35 – 7.45). In modern times, compared to the hunter-gatherer era, there is a decrease in the amount of potassium and an increase in the amount of sodium in the diet (from 10:1 to 1:3).
The modern human diet is characterized by a lack of magnesium, potassium and fiber, and is dominated by saturated fats, simple sugars, sodium and chloride compounds. With age, the ability of the kidneys to regulate acid-base balance decreases, which also contributes to the appearance of metabolic acidosis.
What are the causes of acid-base imbalance
Violation of acid-base balance – the result of the diet of modern man, in which acidifying foods predominate.
In addition to the nutritional value (calorie content, vitamins, proteins, fats and carbohydrates), food is also characterized by an alkalizing or acidifying effect on the body.
As a result of digestion and absorption of food, acidic or alkaline compounds are formed.
To determine the acid-base load of foods, it is necessary to sum up all the acid- and alkali-forming elements and find out which of them predominate. So, organic salts of magnesium and potassium are alkaline components. And organic acids and sulfur-containing amino acids – acidic.
Below estet-portal.com will tell you:
- what foods acidify and alkaline the body;
- what does acidification of the body lead to;
- how acidification is related to weight gain;
- how to deal with acidification.
What foods affect the acid-base balance in the body
Knowing how this or that product affects our body, we can influence the acid-base balance by eating less acidic food and more alkalizing.
- Acidifying foods include coffee, alcohol, animal fats, sugar, and grains;
- Foods that alkalize the body include mainly fresh fruits, vegetables, greens (see table below).
For more information about acidifying and alkalizing foods read our article: Acidic and alkaline foods: how to turn the "enemies" to "friends"
What are the consequences of acidification of the body
The level of acidity is not the same for all body fluids: an acidic environment in the stomach is necessary for the digestion of food, but the environment of the blood is more alkaline, which is necessary for maintaining the vitality of the body.
Each of our bodies is adapted to function in a certain pH range.
The predominance of acidic foods leads to a condition of acidosis, which is associated with a number of diseases.
To normalize the acid-base balance, the body takes measures aimed at neutralizing acidic substances. And one of the consequences of such a struggle of the body with acidification is the accumulation of fat.
Acid-base imbalance and body fat
As you know, the more muscle mass, the more calories the body burns. If the body accumulates a lot of acids, it directs more protein and calcium to fight the acidic environment, & nbsp; which as a result negatively affects the condition of muscles and bones, which are deprived of the main building components.
Therefore, acidification of the body leads to a slower metabolism, fat accumulation, loss of muscle mass and a decrease in bone density.
Furthermore, acidosis, which results in elevated cortisol levels, also negatively affects the body's response to insulin and its ability to regulate fat metabolism and produce the enzymes needed for normal digestion.
Another reason why acidification of the body leads to weight gain is a malfunction of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), which entails a slowdown in metabolism.
Therefore, as a result of acid-base imbalance, we not only notice the appearance of unwanted fat deposits, but also get rid of them with difficulty.
How to help the body restore the acid-base balance
If you have found signs of acidification of the body, you need to help the body to normalize the acid-base balance.
To reduce the acidity in the body, you need to pay attention to the products you use. Raw vegetables and fruits – the best helpers in the fight against acidification of the body, therefore they should prevail in the diet.
But animal fats, sugar, alcohol and coffee are best consumed in minimal amounts to limit the acid load on the body.
Try following the principles of the Alkaline Diet and you will feel much better!
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