A Balancing Act

We’ve all heard about the importance of eating a healthy diet, exercising, and taking time for ourselves. But what if there were a simple test to let us know how well we’re doing in our quest for health? That simple test is pH measurement. Maintaining a slightly alkaline pH (7.4) is a scientifically proven way to a healthier, more vibrant you. Maintaining a balance pH stands for potential of hydrogen. The body’s pH represents the balance of positively charged ions to negatively charged ions. When you eat a highly acidic diet, you force the body to steal alkalizing substances from various tissues—for example, calcium loss from bone. Different fluids in our bodies function optimally at different pH levels. Acidosis occurs when one’s urinary pH level ranges between 4.5 and 5.5. In initial stages of acidosis, one’s energy may still be excellent; however, over time the body will go into burnout mode as the aging process accelerates. On the flip side, if the pH level of your blood ranges between 7.45 and 8.0, it is too alkaline and alkalosis will occur. In this state, sluggishness and lethargy are common. A dramatically fluctuating pH level, from highly acid to highly alkaline, could be responsible for mood swings and sudden energy drops. While most of us follow a healthy diet, we tend to be more acidic than alkaline. This can be a result of consuming too many acid-forming foods such as poultry, eggs, meat, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Cola drinks, alcohol, and coffee are among the most acid-forming beverages and should be avoided when possible. Strenuous exercise and regular stress can also contribute to an abundance of acidity. Testing for pH To find out what your pH level is, look for a pH testing kit at your natural health retail store. The test is relatively straightforward and will help you determine your acid/alkaline balance. For the quickest and easiest way to become more alkaline and more energized, start the day with a green food supplement. According to University of Toronto researchers using the potential renal acid load (PRAL) test, the leading green drink was found to be the most alkalizing food. It proved to be substantially more alkalizing than spinach, dark grapes, or raisins. When planning your meals, combine acid-forming foods with alkaline foods. This can include eating chicken with broccoli or tofu with dark green vegetables. By combining foods such as these, you can naturally promote a healthier acid/alkaline balance, which in turn promotes a healthier, more energized body.