Acid-base imbalance: What are the health consequences of over-acidification of our body?

Essentially, we need a balance between alkalis and acids in our bodies to be healthy. This isn't about the acidity of the stomach, but rather the overall internal balance of alkalis and acids. But why is this so important? We'll explain it to you in the following article!

Bases, acids, pH value & Co.

The human body functions best when its internal pH is 7.39, or slightly alkaline. Daily life, digestion, stress, and metabolism maintain an acidic internal balance. The addition of acidic foods further reinforces this balance.

Well, acidic isn't bad, and alkaline isn't necessarily good. The key is balance. We need to maintain a healthy balance between acid and alkaline, otherwise a whole host of problems can arise.

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. The number 7 represents the ideal balance between acids and bases and is called a neutral pH value.

The acidity range extends from 6 to 0, with zero indicating a completely acidic state. Conversely, a more alkaline pH is indicated by a higher number from 8 to 14, with the latter number representing a state of complete alkalinity (i.e., a state in which no hydrogen ions are released).

Measure the pH value

If you have a pool or pond, you probably know that pH can be measured by placing a drop of water on litmus paper. The paper changes color depending on the acid or base concentration.

You can do the same with your urine or saliva to determine your pH level. If you want to know your balance, you'll need to test both.

The urine test shows how well your body absorbs the minerals – the acid buffers.

When the body is over-acidified, minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium are drawn from the bones and organs to neutralize the acid and remove it from the body, leading to mineral deficiencies. This deficiency can go undetected for years and may not be discovered until your symptoms worsen.

The pH of your saliva indicates the activity of the digestive enzymes in your body. These enzymes help break down food so you can properly absorb nutrients.

What symptoms occur when the body is over-acidified?

Unhealthy skin, hair & nails

Unhealthy skin is just one of the symptoms of hyperacidity. Nails become thin and brittle, and facial skin becomes dry. Excessive acidity also causes hair loss.

Unhealthy mouth and unhealthy teeth

Too much acid can not only lead to sensitive teeth, but also to tooth loss, toothache and sensitive gums

Digestive problems

Many people suffer from digestive problems. Excessive acidity makes digestion difficult, which can lead to acid reflux, ulcers, and gastritis.

Depressive moods

Acidic foods cause energy depletion, chronic fatigue, and joylessness. They can also worsen anxiety and nervousness.

immunodeficiency

Overacidification makes the body more susceptible to disease and the course of diseases is more severe.

So, how can you counteract acidosis? The key words here are diet and lifestyle. You'll learn more about this next Friday, so stay tuned :)