Alkaline Acid Diet: Why Should We Care?
As we've moved from a hunting-gathering society, many things have changed. Innovations in science and technology have allowed people to settle down and to live in areas previously considered uninhabitable. Along with these technological developments, scientific developments now allow people to eat foods that were previously unavailable or had not been invented. These foods and modern processing techniques brought with them new allergies and new health concerns. Grains, dairy, salt, sugary foods, and processed meat products have become readily available for most modern cultures and because of this people are experiencing higher levels of acid in their blood.
Most of what we eat releases an alkaline or acid base into the blood stream; however, a diet heavy in the aforementioned list can lead to an unhealthy alkaline/acid balance (the typical pH level is at between 7.35 and 7.45), often resulting in high acidity levels. When an unbalanced diet throws off the alkaline/acid balance, it can lead to acidosis. Acidosis occurs when there is an excessive build up of acid in the body and bicarbonate (a base) is lost. Since most people eat a diet high in acid producing foods, we stand the risk of losing important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The lack of calcium can potentially lead to osteoporosis, kidney complications, or other bone diseases like rickets; the lack of magnesium can possibly lead to heart problems; a deficiency of potassium can lead to muscle cramps and nervous disorders.
Many holistic practitioners and doctors recommend switching to an acid alkaline diet to reduce acid levels in the body if a patient has the following symptoms and have already ruled out more serious ailments: a sudden lack of energy, an excessive amount of mucous and constant mucous production, severe nasal congestion, frequent occurrence of colds, flu, or flu-like symptoms, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, or frequent headaches. If you are a woman and you have ovarian cysts, polycystic ovaries, or benign cysts, it could be helpful to switch your diet to an alkaline acid diet as well. However, you may not even notice some of these signs. For example, many of us experience a lack of energy and simply do not realize it. However, if you try an alkaline/acid diet and increase your alkaline levels you may quickly notice a boost in your day-to-day energy levels.
The best way to achieve a balance to your alkaline acid levels is to reduce your consumption of refined grains, salt, and meat. One should replace these items with fresh fruit and vegetables and should consider buying a water filtration machine that purifies water and aids in the building of an alkaline body, such as a Kangen water machine. Adding acid alkaline food and water to your diet can make a big difference in your health.
As always, it is a wise idea to consult your doctor before trying a new diet. Alkaline diets are not recommended for people with acute or chronic kidney failure without a doctor's supervision. Furthermore, if you are on a medication that affects potassium levels in the body, you should check with your consulting physician.
