The Alkaline Diet
New diet fad or the key to longevity? How exactly does this new Alkaline diet trend impact the body?
The Alkaline diet is based off the principle that our blood is at a pH between 7.35 to 7.45, which is slightly basic, so we should be eating alkaline foods to maintain this pH. It is extreme dangerous for the blood to be more acidic because it leads to acidosis, which causes fatigue, sleeplessness, and confusion. However, it is also dangerous for the blood to be basic because it causes alkalosis, which is characterized by numbness, muscle spasms and tremors.
Our bodies metabolic processes produce acid. That's why exercising causes lactic acid accumulation. There are buffers in the bodies such as the bicarbonate and phosphate buffer system. It is important not to eat too much acid-forming foods because overusing these buffers does not come without consequence. Calcium phosphate is a compound found in the bones and teeth. If the phosphate needs to be liberated to neutralize the acid, the calcium does as well. This not only weakens bone and teeth structure, but it also leaves free-floating calcium ions in the body that can cause gall stones.
But, don't be so inclined to hop on the band wagon, your blood is not necessarily healthier when it is so basic. When trying any diet always consult your physician and keep in mine that balance is the best policy.
The Alkaline diet is based off the principle that our blood is at a pH between 7.35 to 7.45, which is slightly basic, so we should be eating alkaline foods to maintain this pH. It is extreme dangerous for the blood to be more acidic because it leads to acidosis, which causes fatigue, sleeplessness, and confusion. However, it is also dangerous for the blood to be basic because it causes alkalosis, which is characterized by numbness, muscle spasms and tremors.
Our bodies metabolic processes produce acid. That's why exercising causes lactic acid accumulation. There are buffers in the bodies such as the bicarbonate and phosphate buffer system. It is important not to eat too much acid-forming foods because overusing these buffers does not come without consequence. Calcium phosphate is a compound found in the bones and teeth. If the phosphate needs to be liberated to neutralize the acid, the calcium does as well. This not only weakens bone and teeth structure, but it also leaves free-floating calcium ions in the body that can cause gall stones.
But, don't be so inclined to hop on the band wagon, your blood is not necessarily healthier when it is so basic. When trying any diet always consult your physician and keep in mine that balance is the best policy.
Alkaline - Forming |
Acid-Forming |
Beets
Broccoli Green Beans Kale Lettuce Mushrooms Onions Pumpkin Spinach Sprouts Sweet Potatoes Wheat Crass Tomatoes Grapes Grapefruit Honeydew Melon Lemon Orange Peach Ginger Bee Pollen |
Blueberries
Cranberries Plums Corn Bread Macaroni Oatmeal Rice Spaghetti Wheat Almond Milk Chick Peas Butter Cheese Ice Cream Legues Meat Liquor Corn Syrup Sugar |