The human body is a complex collection of systems, organs and fluids that work together to sustain life. While some systems seem more important than others, each has a very specific purpose.
When the different pieces work together in harmony, we call it homeostasis. If a single system is unbalanced, homeostasis is disrupted and health and well-being can suffer. In this sense, the potential hydrogen or pH of your body is of great importance, it is one of the many components that contribute to homeostasis.
PH equilibrium:
The hydrogen potential, denoted pH, is a measure of the chemical activity of hydrons (also commonly called protons or hydrogen ions) in solution.
The pH scale ranges from 0 (acid) to 14 (basic or alkaline); 7 is neutral.
The body uses nutrients and electrolytes to maintain the balance, which exists in a narrow pH range. It requires a slightly alkaline environment between 7.35 and 7.45; usually around 7.4.
Studies show that modern diets are more likely to increase body acidity levels. Because many of the foods we eat today are more acidic than alkaline. To remedy this problem, we must reverse the trend by consuming more alkaline foods.
The alkaline diet:
The alkaline diet consists of eating foods with certain pH levels in order to influence the body's acidity. But it is important to understand that it is not the pH level of the food itself that counts, but the effect that the food has on the body. For example, a lemon itself is acidic, but once in the body, it promotes alkalinity and not acidity.
People who follow the diet (including celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham) say they have benefits such as weight loss, increased energy and better resistance to certain diseases.
The alkaline diet consists of many natural foods rich in vitamin C, selenium, iron and zinc, all supporting intestinal health and the immune system. Spinach, almonds, cashews and peanuts contain oxalates that prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Sweet red peppers, broccoli and carrots offer large amounts of vitamin A. This promotes healing and health of your skin, especially against conditions such as acne.