What Controls PH in the Body?

The pH balance of the human bloodstream is one of the most important biochemical balances in the human body. In order to maintain a proper pH balance, the body will deposit and withdraw minerals from bones, fluids or soft tissues. Foods, medication, stress and water affect and control pH balance.

Description

• The pH levels control the speed of the body's biochemical reactions. The term "pH" stands for "potential hydrogen," which is the degree of concentration of hydrogen ions in something. The more unbalanced pH levels are, the more likely you will be susceptible to illness. Feeling tired, lethargic or generally unwell are common symptoms of unbalanced pH levels. Additionally, if pH levels become to acidic, you can be at risk for acidosis, increased acidity in the blood stream.

pH Scale

• The pH scale goes from 0 to 14 with 7.0 representing neutral. Values 0 to 6.9 represent varying degrees of acidity, while values 7.1 to 14 represent varying degrees of alkalinity. For example, 0.3 is very acidic and 13.8 is highly alkaline. Conversely, 6.7 is mildly acidic and 7.8 is slightly alkaline. The human body tries to maintain an alkalizing pH balance of 7.4.

Dietary Causes

• All foods affect the body's pH balance. Foods are classified as either alkaline or acidic depending on how they affect urine pH levels. If a food increases the acidity of urine, it is classified as acidic. If a food increases the alkalinity of urine, it is classified as alkaline. Acidic foods include meats, eggs, and dairy products. Alkaline foods include fruits and vegetables.

Other Causes

• Probiotics, healthful bacteria commonly found in dairy products such as yogurt and sour cream, create an acidic environment in the digestive tract. Additionally, antibiotics, mineral supplements, vitamins and antacids can also affect the pH of urine.

Water

• Soft water and distilled water are acidic, causing pH levels to drop. Hard water and mineral water, on the other hand, are alkalizing because of their mineral content. Therefore hard water and mineral water cause pH levels to rise.

Alkaline Foods

• Citrus fruits except oranges, watermelon, mango, papaya, asparagus, onions, vegetable juices, parsley, spinach, broccoli, garlic, barley, melons, grapes, apples, pears, kiwi, okra, squash, green beans, beets, celery, lettuce, zucchini, sweet potatoes, quinoa , millet, lentils, wild rice, corn, bananas, cherries, pineapple, peaches, avocados, carrots, tomatoes, mushrooms, cabbage, peas, cauliflower, turnips, olives, oils, coconuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts and goat cheese are alkaline foods.

Acidic Foods

• Kidney beans, plums, prepackaged juices, spelt flour and breads, brown rice, organ meats such as liver, cold-water fish such as cod, eggs, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, corn oil, full-fat dairy products, margarine, potatoes, pinto beans, navy beans, canned fruit, oats, pecans, cashews, coffee, wine, poultry, lamb, raw dairy products, most condiments, blueberries, cranberries, prunes, wheat products, beef, pork, shellfish, ice cream, peanuts, beer and alcohol are foods that cause pH balances to be more acidic.