The Secrets of pH Concerning Health and Disease

The "secrets" of pH health levels differ for every person.The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. "p" stands for "potential to be" and H for Hydrogen. The scale ranges from 1 to 14 with 1 being very acid, 7 neutral (water) and 14 very alkaline. Blood type, environment, diet and basic personality are measurable factors in balancing pH.

Acidosis

• Most people who suffer from unbalanced pH are acidic--pH falls below 7.35. High acid levels force the body to borrow minerals, like calcium, potassium and magnesium, from organs and bones to neutralize the acid and then safely remove it from the body. Acidosis can slowly corrode the body, leading to health issues like canker sores, acid reflux, joint problems and osteoporosis.

Acidosis Prevention

• The primary cause of excessive acid in the body is diet, however, environment and emotions can also be a factor. Most high-protein foods, such as red meat and most carbohydrates (including breads and pastas), are acid-forming; increasing the intake of fruit and vegetables (especially dark greens) will help to balance pH levels. Counteract stressful environments and negative emotional interactions with meditation or a vacation.

Alkalosis

• Alkalosis may occur when pH exceeds 7.45. Severe diarrhea or vomiting may cause alkalosis, because of excessive loss of fluids and stomach acids. Alkalosis may be caused by loss of carbonic acid because of rapid breathing (hyperventilation). Excessive consumption of antacid digestive aids can also cause alkalosis, leading to problems like constipation, drowsiness, kidney problems and bone density issues.

Alkalosis Prevention

• The primary cause of alkalosis conditions in the body is diet, however, environment and emotions can also be a factor. Some diets do not produce enough acid, so an increase in acids (meats and carbohydrates) will help to balance pH levels. Excessive meditation and and lack of "fear" can be countered by adding intense emotions (like riding on a fast roller-coaster).

The Delicate Balance

• According to MarmaVed Inc., pH balance is an index for the total health of the body: when the pH is too high or too low, it disrupts the "balancing factor" itself, a situation which can lead to complications under the guise of serious diseases. Diet is important, although it is only one part of the whole equation of human health and well being.

Other Beneficial Help

• By using pH test strips, your pH factor can quickly be determined. If urinary pH fluctuates between 6.0 to 6.5 in the morning and between 6.5 and 7.0 in the evening, the body is functioning within a healthy pH range. If the saliva stays between 6.5 and 7.5 all day, the body is functioning within a healthy pH range. The best times to test pH are about one hour before a meal and two hours after a meal.