The importance of acid-base balance for our health

Our body functions optimally when it is in harmonious balance. One of the key factors influencing this equilibrium is the acid-base balance. Excess acidity and the accumulation of toxins are often the cause of so-called age-related complaints and illnesses. A careful approach to acid-base balance can work wonders. To help the body relieve stress, detoxify, and deacidify, this article delves into the world of acid-base balance.

What is acid-base balance?

The acid-base balance is a complex system that regulates the ratio between acidic and alkaline substances in the body. The pH value plays a crucial role in this. The pH value measures the acidic or alkaline nature of a solution and lies on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH value below 7 is considered acidic, a value above 7 is considered alkaline, and 7 is neutral.

Numerous processes in our body depend on an optimal pH level to function smoothly. Regulating this balance is not only essential for daily functions, but also impacts our long-term health. For example, arteriosclerosis, disc problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome are all effects of excess acidity and the accumulation of toxins. Deacidification can also restore our desired quality of life in cases of bad mood, depression, and fatigue.

Why is acid-base balance important?

Enzymatic activity: Enzymes responsible for biochemical reactions in the body function most efficiently within a specific pH range. A disturbed acid-base balance can impair enzymatic activity and thus slow down the entire metabolism. We need enzymes for all vital bodily processes: digestion, detoxification, metabolism, proper immune function, energy production, cell division, and hormone production, among others.

Immune system: A balanced acid-base balance supports the immune system in fighting pathogens more effectively. An acidic environment can increase susceptibility to infections, while a slightly alkaline environment can strengthen the immune system.

Electrolyte balance: The regulation of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, which are crucial for nerve and muscle activity, depends on acid-base balance. An imbalance can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and other problems.

Bone health: An acidic environment in the body can lead to the mobilization of basic minerals such as calcium from the bones, which in the long term can lead to osteoporosis and other bone problems.

What if the body becomes too acidic?

The effects of hyperacidity can be diverse and affect various organs and functions of the body. Here are some possible consequences. If one or more of these symptoms occur, it may be due to an acid-base imbalance.

Disruption of metabolism and enzyme activity : Enzymes responsible for numerous biochemical processes in the body work most efficiently within a specific pH range. Overacidification can impair the activity of these enzymes, which can slow normal metabolism. This can also lead to weight gain or reduced detoxification performance, among other things.
Impaired immune system : An over-acidified body can impair immune system function. The immune system functions optimally in a slightly alkaline environment. An acidic environment, on the other hand, can weaken the body's defenses against pathogens.
Loss of minerals from bones: To regulate blood pH, the body can mobilize alkaline minerals such as calcium from the bones. In the long term, this can lead to impaired bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Muscle problems: Excess acidity can lead to muscle problems, including muscle tension, cramps, and weakness. This is because an acidic environment can impair the normal function of muscles and nerves.
Digestive problems: An overly acidic stomach can lead to digestive problems such as heartburn and acid reflux. Stomach acid plays an important role in the digestion of food. Excessive stomach acid is usually produced when we consume toxins such as alcohol and nicotine, which then fail to digest food but can attack the stomach lining.
Exhaustion and fatigue: Overacidification can cause exhaustion and fatigue because the disturbed metabolism and impaired nutrient absorption affect energy production.

Causes of an imbalance in the acid-base balance:

Diet: Excessive intake of acid-forming foods such as meat, dairy products, sugar and refined carbohydrates can lead to an over-acidified state.
Stress: Chronic stress can affect the acid-base balance. Stress hormones promote acidic reactions in the body. The cause is secondary to the body—whether it's a boss, a relationship, family, noise, emotional stress, or strenuous physical exertion. Silent inflammation and internal processes are also stress.
Dehydration: A lack of fluid intake can result in the body being unable to excrete sufficient acids, which leads to hyperacidity.
Environmental factors: Polluted air, chemicals and environmental toxins can affect the pH level in the body.

Measures to support a balanced acid-base balance:

Balanced diet: A diet rich in alkaline foods such as leafy and root vegetables can promote detoxification. These include spinach, cabbage, chard, fennel, celery and carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, fruit, nuts, and seeds.
Detox breathing: An important corrective mechanism for acid-base balance is the so-called "respiratory compensation." Breathing regulates the carbon dioxide (CO2) content in the blood, which in turn influences the pH level. When the pH level in the blood drops, i.e., the environment becomes acidic (acidosis), the body reacts by increasing breathing and thus removing more CO2 from the blood. CO2 is an acidic compound, and removing CO2 from the blood increases the pH level to maintain a normal range. Detox breathing is best done immediately after waking up at an open window. For example, exhaling deeply through the nose about 30 times, or up to 60 if necessary, is detoxifying.
Oil pulling: Oil pulling can be incorporated into your dental care routine immediately after breathing exercises. This also supports deacidification and detoxification.
Adequate hydration: Water plays a crucial role in the elimination of acids. Adequate hydration is therefore essential. A glass of water with fresh lemon juice in the morning provides an excellent foundation for a balanced acid-base balance.
Stress management: Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and relaxation exercises, can help stabilize the acid-base balance.
Regular exercise: Physical activity promotes blood circulation and metabolism, which can have a positive effect on the acid-base balance.
Alkaline baths: A warm bath with alkaline salts for approximately 30 minutes is an important component of deacidification. Alkaline baths contain, for example, magnesium and calcium, alkaline carbonates such as sodium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, potassium carbonate, or natural salts such as sea salt and crystal salt. It doesn't always have to be a bathtub; even an alkaline foot bath provides a beneficial balance to the acid-base balance.

Overall, a balanced acid-base balance is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Through conscious deacidification through diet, adequate hydration, alkaline baths, and stress management, we can actively contribute to supporting this balance and thus lay the foundation for a healthy and energetic life. A deeper understanding of the importance of acid-base balance allows us to bring awareness to our lifestyle. If we notice symptoms of hyperacidity, we can relieve our body in a simple way through regular detoxification – with great effect.

Alkaline diet

The body's acid-base balance can be influenced by diet. There are foods that are considered acidic or alkaline, and the right choices can help maintain a balanced acid-base balance. Here are some nutrients and foods that are important for a balanced acid-base balance:

Alkaline foods:

Vegetables: Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and celery are alkaline. Cucumbers and avocados also help align the body toward alkaline conditions.
Fruit: Citrus fruits such as lemons and limes, as well as alkaline fruits such as melons and berries, have an alkalizing effect.

Nutrients that contribute to an alkaline environment:

Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium are alkaline minerals. Foods such as almonds, sesame seeds, bananas, potatoes, and spinach are rich in these minerals.
Vitamins: Vitamin C from citrus fruits and other fruits and vegetables can promote an alkaline environment.
Water: Adequate fluid intake is crucial for the elimination of acids. Drinking water is the best choice.
Acidic foods in moderation: A balanced acid-base balance doesn't mean completely avoiding acid-forming foods. However, they should be consumed in moderation.
Proteins: Meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products are protein-rich foods that have an acidic effect. Their consumption should be balanced with alkaline foods.
Conscious food choices: Whole grain products: Compared to refined carbohydrates, whole grain products tend to have an alkalizing effect.
Healthy fats: Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and avocados can help with alkalization.
Herbs and spices: Some herbs and spices have an alkalizing effect, including parsley, basil, coriander, and mint. They can be used in the kitchen to flavor dishes.

It's important to note that the effects of foods on acid-base balance depend not only on the pH value of the food itself, but also on their metabolic processing in the body. A balanced diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains generally supports a healthy acid-base balance. Additional healthy morning routines such as a short breathing session by an open window, oil pulling, or a glass of lemon water provide a solid foundation for a healthy acid-base balance first thing in the morning. In the evening, an alkaline salt bath provides a soothing end to the day. It doesn't have to be the whole body; simply soaking your feet in a warm bath is often enough.

We recommend considering individual dietary habits and possible health conditions. If you are unsure, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist or health professional for personalized advice.

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