Water is an important component of any living organism. In the cells of the human body contains about 80% of water. The ratio of acid and alkali - pH-value in a healthy body corresponds to certain numbers. The pH level is determined by the analysis of urine and saliva. An increase in the concentration of positively charged ions when the pH is close to zero is an acid shift (acidosis), an increase in the number of hydroxyl ions to a pH of 14.0 is an alkaline shift (alkalosis).
Note: you can determine the pH-level yourself using test strips, which are easy to obtain at the pharmacy. The test strips are accompanied by an instruction, which provides an accessible explanation for determining the level of acid-base balance.
Violation of acid-base balance in the human body
Many specialists in dietetics believe that a violation of the acid-base balance in the body poses a real threat to human health, and a balanced pH environment is an indispensable condition for normal metabolism, and, therefore, helps to resist diseases.
Increase in acidity in the body
In the acidified organism, the supply of oxygen to organs and tissues is difficult. In addition, the body suffers from a lack of minerals, which, in turn, makes the bones fragile, causes cardiovascular disorders, etc.
The acid balance of the body is shifted for the following reasons:
- improper diet, excessive consumption of acidic foods (bakery products, sugar, sweetened sodas, fast food refers to acid-forming food);
- alcohol abuse;
- metabolic diseases, in the first place - diabetes mellitus .
Symptoms of unfavorable changes in the acid-base balance of the body towards increasing acidity are:
- diseases of the cardiovascular system, incl. spasms of blood vessels;
- weight gain;
- diabetes;
- the formation of stones in the kidneys and bladder;
- disorders of the musculoskeletal system;
- joint and muscle pain due to accumulation of lactic acid;
- decreased immunity and vitality.
Increase of alkali content in the body
Usually, alkalosis develops with the abuse of certain types of medicines and the lack of fresh vegetables and fruits in the diet. With increased alkali content, food and minerals are poorly digested. This leads to the following consequences:
- parasites are activated;
- skin problems occur;
- allergic manifestations become aggravated;
- from the body emits an unpleasant smell;
- exacerbated chronic diseases.
Recovery of acid-base balance of the body
In order to maintain an optimum ratio of alkali and acid, it is necessary:
- proper nutrition;
- consumption of clean water in the required quantities;
- regular intake of vitamin-mineral complexes;
- sufficient stay in the fresh air;
- moderate exercise.
Many products have a significant effect on the acid-base balance of the body. To reduce acidity, you need to consume more alkaline food, in order to increase them - include more oxidizing products in the diet.
Acid-forming products include:
- meat;
- Fish and seafood;
- cheese, cottage cheese, yogurts;
- eggs;
- cereals and legumes;
- sugar and confectionery;
- canned food;
- seeds, nuts;
- sweet fizzy drinks;
- coffee;
- alcohol.
Leaching food products are characterized by a high water content. Among them - most of the vegetables and fruits.
Neutral food is:
- milk and dairy products;
- butter;
- vegetable oils.