We all know someone, or possibly even yourself, who has been stricken with Cancer, Heart Disease, or some other chronic illness.
But have you ever considered why this is?
Our bodies are meant to support our health throughout life so why are some people struck with disease, while others aren’t?
pH … It is your body’s pH level that determines disease or no disease.
Did you know you can make an impact on your own susceptibility to disease through monitoring your Body pH?
What is it about cancer and chronic disease?
What do you think is contributing to this exponential increase in sickness and disease?
If you’re thinking that it’s our environment, you’re right. Our environment plays a massive role in our health.
The National Cancer Society recognizes that 80% of all cancers are lifestyle induced.
And unfortunately many things are out of our control. We can’t always control the pollutants in our air, or the pollutants in the water, or even sometimes our food. But there are a lot of ways that we can take control and make small simple changes that can set you and your families up for a brighter future.
The biggest environmental factors that you can truly impact are cellular factors, emotional factors, and neurological factors.
While heart disease is the number cause of death in the United States. Cancer is moving up in the ranks. If we account for the cost of cancer treatments, we’re talking about $100 Billion spent on chemo, pharmaceuticals and other treatments in the US in 2014.
Today we’re going to focus on cellular factors. On a cellular level, our bodies are always working to maintain homeostasis.
For example, if you’ve ever been super busy at work and you simply forget to drink water throughout the day, you’ll probably notice that you don’t have to pee too much.
Your body is smart and when you don’t ingest enough water, your body will hold onto the water that it has and therefore you won’t have to pee. But if you drink tons of water throughout the day, you’ll find that you’re probably in the bathroom more than you might like. Your body knows that it’s okay to release that water because you have enough. That’s homeostasis.
One of the biggest ways that our bodies maintain homeostasis is through body pH.
pH is a measure of acidity and alkalinity of your body. Almost every single function of the body is sensitive to the pH of their fluids.
When pH is acidic, the cells become poisoned and toxic by their own wastes, it’s harder to take up vital nutrients critical for optimal health, and there is less oxygen available for use.
The reason we want to be more alkaline is that our body will naturally produce acids when performing basic functions like metabolism, immune system function and more. And we need an alkaline body pH to help buffer these acidic byproducts.
Because we need these alkaline buffers, if we aren’t getting it from our food, then our bodies will pull alkalizing minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium from our bones, muscles and organs.
This can then lead to several different issues. Basic signs and symptoms of low pH (acidity) are tiredness, dry skin, brittle nails, fatigue, poor digestion, muscle weakness, cold hands and feet, headaches, sleepiness, confusion, seizures, shortness of breath, cavities and more.
Cancer thrives in an anaerobic acidic state so when our body’s pH is low (acidic) we are maintaining the perfect environment for cancer.
Luckily pH is very easy to measure and I’m going to tell you how! You can easily pick up a pack of pH test strips either at a local health food store, or on amazon.
https://www.pipingrock.com/?rwcode=FNN376
To test your pH, simply spit or pee on a strip and then match it up to the color table.
Acidic pH is 6.8 and below
Alkaline pH is 7.2 and above
Ideal pH inside the cell is 7.4. We really want to keep that pH around the 7.4 mark for healthy body functioning.
I’m going to challenge you to check your pH to see where you stand for a week.
The key is to journal your pH at several different times of the day and track your pH for an entire week. The reason why we have you journal is that your pH will naturally fluctuate throughout the day so you’ll want to check it four times throughout the day to find your baseline.
I would recommend checking first thing in the morning when you get up before you brush, drink or eat anything, ,right before lunch, during the mid-afternoon, and before bed. You’ll probably be more acidic in the morning and more alkaline before meals and before bed depending on what you consume.
Use this Worksheet to start tracking your pH
https://docs.google.com/document/d/12QXmtY5X5cW_FhmBTpjKaRSGw5iHi4vN/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=103052726137751827780&rtpof=true&sd=true
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a substance. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic, 7 being neutral, and 14 being the most basic. The pH of a substance is determined by the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in the solution.
When a substance has a pH of 7, it is considered neutral because it has an equal concentration of H+ and hydroxide ions (OH-). Substances with a pH below 7 are considered acidic because they have a higher concentration of H+ ions, while substances with a pH above 7 are considered basic because they have a higher concentration of OH- ions.
It is important to note that the pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that a change of one pH unit represents a tenfold change in acidity or basicity.
For example, a substance with a pH of 4 is ten times more acidic than a substance with a pH of 5.
The pH scale is used in many industries, including agriculture, food science, and medicine. In agriculture, the pH of soil can affect the growth of crops, while in food science, the pH of food can affect its taste, texture, and safety. In medicine, the pH of bodily fluids can indicate certain health conditions.
Overall, understanding the pH scale is important for determining the acidity or basicity of a substance and its potential impact on various industries.
Acidity in Foods
Acidity is a common term used to describe the sourness or tartness of foods. It is determined by the pH level of the food, which ranges from 0 to 14. Foods with a pH of 7 are considered neutral, while those with a pH below 7 are considered acidic and those with a pH above 7 are considered alkaline.
Acidity in foods is natural and can be influenced by various factors such as the type of food, the processing method, and the storage conditions. For example, fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are naturally acidic, while dairy products such as milk and cheese are slightly acidic.
Acidic foods can have both positive and negative effects on the body.
On one hand, they can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which aid in the breakdown of food. On the other hand, excessive consumption of acidic foods can lead to acid reflux, heartburn, and other digestive issues.
It is important to note that the acidity of a food does not necessarily determine its nutritional value. For example, citrus fruits are highly acidic but are also rich in vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients.
The acidity of a food is determined by its pH level and can have both positive and negative effects on the body. It is important to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods with different pH levels to ensure optimal health.
Eating Acidic or Alkaline Foods and the Health Implications
The pH level of food can have an impact on overall health. Eating too many acidic foods may lead to health problems, such as inflammation, osteoporosis, and kidney stones.
On the other hand, consuming too many alkaline foods may lead to issues such as muscle weakness, constipation, and confusion.
It’s important to note that the pH level of food does not directly affect the pH level of the body. The human body has mechanisms to maintain a consistent pH level, regardless of the pH level of the food consumed. However, consuming too many acidic or alkaline foods can still have negative health implications.
A balanced diet with a mix of both acidic and alkaline foods is recommended for optimal health. Foods that are considered acidic include meat, dairy, grains, and processed foods. Foods that are considered alkaline include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.
In addition to the pH level of food, it’s important to consider the overall nutrient content of the food. For example, while lemons are considered acidic, they are also a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients that are beneficial for health.
Overall, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of both acidic and alkaline foods to promote overall health and well-being.
Different Diets with rice
Rice is a staple food in many cultures and is consumed by millions of people around the world and is consumed in different forms, such as boiled, fried, and steamed. The acidity of rice is an important factor to consider when cooking and consuming it. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sushi to stir-fry to risotto. Rice is also a common ingredient in many different types of diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
In a vegetarian diet, rice can be an important source of protein. When combined with other plant-based sources of protein, such as beans or tofu, rice can provide all the essential amino acids that the body needs. Brown rice is particularly high in protein and fiber, making it a popular choice for vegetarians.
For those following a vegan diet, rice can be a valuable source of nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12. Many vegan-friendly foods are fortified with these nutrients, but rice can be a natural source as well. Brown rice is a good choice for vegans, as it is high in iron and other essential nutrients.
Rice is also a popular choice for those following a gluten-free diet. Unlike wheat and other grains that contain gluten, rice is naturally gluten-free. This makes it a safe and versatile option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
One question that often arises is whether rice is acidic or alkaline.
The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, with a pH of 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, and anything above 7 is considered alkaline.
The pH of rice varies depending on the type of rice and how it is prepared.
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, the pH of cooked white rice ranges from 6.0 to 7.2, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Brown rice, on the other hand, has a pH of 5.0 to 6.0, which is more acidic than white rice.
It is important to note that the pH of rice can be affected by factors such as the type of water used for cooking, the cooking method, and the addition of other ingredients. For example, adding vinegar to rice can lower its pH and make it more acidic.
Soil pH
The pH level of the soil where rice is grown can affect the acidity of the rice. If the soil is acidic, then the rice grown in it will be acidic too. Conversely, if the soil is alkaline, then the rice will be less acidic.
Cooking Method
The cooking method used can also affect the acidity of rice. For example, boiling rice in excess water can make it more acidic. This is because the excess water leaches out some of the nutrients, including minerals that help to buffer the acidity.
Storage
The way rice is stored can also affect its acidity. Rice that is stored in a humid environment can become more acidic due to the growth of bacteria and fungi. This can also lead to the production of mycotoxins, which are harmful to human health.
Overall, rice can be a healthy and nutritious addition to many different types of diets. Whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, there are many ways to incorporate rice into your meals and enjoy its many benefits.
Are most of the foods you’re eating acid-forming or alkaline-forming?
As you can tell, vegetables are more alkaline-forming while meat tends to be more acidic. Now, before you panic about having to change your entire diet, let’s look at some baby steps that you can do to make a positive impact.
First, start adding more vegetables to each meal. Sometimes in the beginning of switching our food, it’s easier to add versus taking away.
So even if you left your entire meal the same, try adding a veggie to each meal. Add a salad. Roast some veggies. When you make stir-fry or casseroles, add a veggie to that casserole that your family already loves. T
There are many vegetables that are easy to hide as well! For example, you can use cauliflower “rice” instead of regular white rice. You can use mashed sweet potatoes instead of mashed white potatoes. You can add cooked carrots to your child’s mac and cheese and cut out part of the pasta.
There are also many easy food swaps that you can make to shift into consuming
more alkaline foods. Perhaps try having pumpkin seeds as a snack instead of walnuts.
Substitute all white flour and white rice with brown flour and brown rice. Rice is acidic either way, but at least brown rice is less acidic than white rice. Have watermelon and cantaloupe for your afternoon snack instead of popcorn or chips.
Another way to increase your veggie consumption is through juicing. Juicing is one of the best ways to consume veggies because you’ll be able to drink so much more than you could ever eat in a sitting. For example, you could fit a head of lettuce, handful of kale, a few carrots, and a cucumber into one small glass of juice, whereas you probably would never eat that much as solid food
Another BIG way to modify your body pH is through watching what you drink. This is by far the easiest way to change your pH because beverages have such a huge impact.
The pH of soda is so low, that it takes 32 glasses of 7.0 pH water to neutralize 1 glass of coke. So the next time you pick up a soda, ask yourself if you’re ready to drink 32 glasses of water to neutralize it.
Other extremely acidic beverages include liquor, wine, beer, and coffee. And if you thought Diet Soda was okay, diet is actually the worst by far… with a pH of 0.5.
Start to incorporate a few of these changes this next week as we talk about improving your pH through supplements and other healthy products.
Feel free to share your favorite vegetarian recipes!
Moving and sweating helps remove acidic waste from the body as well as improve your breathing patterns. Breathing is important to sleep and balancing hormones. Our body is all connected and sometimes when it is out of balance we need to add supplements to get us back to basics and neutral..
Apple Cider Vinegar
You may have assumed that Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is acidic because it’s
vinegar.. but it’s actually alkaline-forming in the body!
ACV is an amazing addition to your daily routine. It has been shown to have numerous positive effects on raising pH and making you more alkaline. AVC has also been shown to improve mood, improve skin and clear up acne, help with digestion and help you feel full faster, among many other things.
Be cautious of drinking ACV straight out of the bottle as it can wear down the enamel on your teeth. Instead, we recommend mixing ACV with water in a 1:10 ratio. Simply pour an ounce of ACV into a 10-ounce glass of water and drink it down!
This is another great way to increase your water intake throughout the day. Be sure to purchase Organic ACV with “the mother” in it, such as Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar.
Powdered Greens
While it is always best to get your vegetables from fresh whole sources, many
people are unable to consume enough vegetables throughout the day.
Juicing is a fantastic way to add in extra greens, but for those
who are unable to juice, there are a few fantastic green powders that can be added
to your diet.
Spirulina and Chlorella
Most powdered greens will have spirulina and chlorella in them, but if they don’t,
make sure to find a powder or tablet with this fantastic plant algae. These algae are
well-known powerhouses, as they are packed with vital nutrients for the body.
Research shows they can
- support the immune system
- balance blood sugar levels
- May even help fight cancer
Chlorella also helps eliminate heavy metal from the body.
Calcium
Because body acidity can pull calcium from the bones, a great calcium supplement is
a wonderful addition to your daily supplements.
Be cautious when choosing your supplements! Most supplements contain calcium carbonate, which is much less expensive. However, calcium carbonate is poorly absorbed by the body, which makes supplements with calcium carbonate a waste. Try to find a supplement with calcium citrate instead. Calcium citrate is more than twice as absorbable as calcium carbonate, and even though it may be a bit more expensive, it’s worth it.
Probiotics
Probiotics are essential for healthy mouth and gut function. We recommend getting your probiotics from different sources since different sources have different strains of
probiotics. Some probiotic rich foods are sauerkraut, greek yogurt, and kombucha. I
I especially love water kefir for probiotics. For habitual soda drinkers, Kefir is a
great way to get your fix for “something fizzy” so swapping out a soda for water
Kefir is a fantastic way to improve your gut health.
We’ve been discussing the benefits of understanding body pH and how it correlates to disease prevention. We’ve discussed how to check your pH, as well as simple changes to your diet Next week we will talk about probiotics and why they are beneficial to the body.
Testing the pH is a start to balancing the body and preventing disease. Now that you know who and why to test what you do to get the body to stay in balance?
