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Acidification is among the conditions that interfere with the proper functioning of our bodies. Our lifestyle, including diet, can affect fluctuations in the proper pH of blood and urine. Although the body has its own defence mechanisms to prevent extreme adverse changes, it is worth supporting it with a healthy diet. Learn about alkalizing and acidifying products and enjoy balanced health.

WHAT IS THE NORMAL PH FOR A PERSON?

Speaking of normal pH values, it is worth distinguishing, among others, the blood pH, the norms of which are very limited, and urine pH, where these fluctuations can be greater. The normal pH of blood is between 7.35 and 7.45 and indicates a slightly alkaline reaction. The pH of urine can range between 4.6 and 8, so it varies from acidic to alkaline. Other fluids produced by our body also have different standards for a healthy reaction, so it is best to consult a specialist for analysing your results.

HOW TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN ALKALIZING AND ACIDIFYING PRODUCTS?

To determine which foods are most acid-forming and which are alkaline-forming we most frequently use the PRAL index. It is based on the content of food ingredients that have an acid-forming effect (this is protein, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and calcium). The higher the index, the stronger the acidifying effect of a particular product.

SYMPTOMS OF BODY ACIDIFICATION

Acidification of the body can produce a number of non-specific symptoms that also occur in various medical conditions. Such symptoms include:

  • headaches
  • excessive fatigue
  • problems with concentration
  • inflammation
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Gastrointestinal ailments: heartburn, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea
  • decreased immunity
  • proneness to allergies
  • deterioration of skin, hair, and nails

WHAT PRODUCTS ACIDIFY THE BODY?

Products that acidify the body mainly include zoonotic products, namely meat, poultry, dairy products (especially cheese), fish, and eggs. Plant foods with high protein content, such as processed cereals, some legumes and nuts, also exhibit acidifying properties. Highly processed foods also have an acidifying effect on the body, including confectionery, sweets, and some beverages.

ALKALIZING PRODUCTS - LIST

Alkalizing products are mainly fruits and vegetables, and juices made from them. Some of the most alkalizing foods include:

  • broccoli
  • spinach
  • kale
  • Brussels sprouts
  • cabbage
  • lettuce
  • beets
  • zucchini
  • tomatoes
  • radish
  • garlic
  • carrots,
  • pumpkin,
  • avocados,
  • bananas,
  • citrus,
  • kiwis,
  • watermelons,
  • strawberries,
  • pineapple.

Other foods with an alkalizing effect on the body include millet groats, dried prunes, dates, raisins, and mushrooms, among others.

WHAT AN ALKALIZING DIET LOOKS LIKE

To avoid acidification of the body, our daily menu should be based on a large number of vegetables and partially on fruits. For better results, these products should be eaten without heat treatment, which destroys some of the important components for health (vitamins, bioactive components, enzymes). Your menu may include other alkalizing products and neutral foods, which include vegetable oils, butter, natural yoghurt, kefir, and buttermilk, among others. Your meals may sometimes contain products that acidify the body but you should consume them in moderate amounts and accompanied by alkalizing ingredients.

RAW FOOD DIET EFFECTIVELY DEACIDIFIES THE BODY

A good way to deacidify the body and restore internal balance is to follow Dr. Ewa Dabrowska's raw food diet. It is a restrictive diet based exclusively on raw and unprocessed products. The fresh vegetables and fruits used in it not only act as alkalizing agents but also offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This diet is beneficial for individuals experiencing symptoms that may indicate acidification and patients with metabolic disorders, including metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis. Dr Ewa Dabrowska's raw food diet is offered by Sofra Health Institute.