The importance of the acid-base balance for our health

Our body functions optimally when it is in a harmonious balance. One of the key factors that influence this balance is the acid-base balance. Acidosis and the accumulation of waste products are often the cause of age-related complaints and illnesses. A mindful approach to the acid-base balance can work wonders. In this article, we delve into the world of acid-alkaline balance to help the body detoxify, purify and deacidify.

What is the acid-base balance?

The acid-base balance is a complex system that regulates the relationship between acidic and alkaline substances in the body. The pH value plays a decisive role in this. The pH value measures the acidic or alkaline character of a solution and is on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH value below 7 is considered acidic, a value above 7 is alkaline and 7 is neutral.

In our organism, numerous processes depend on an optimum pH value in order to run smoothly. The regulation of this balance is not only essential for daily functions, but also influences our health in the long term. For example, arteriosclerosis, intervertebral disc problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome are all effects of hyperacidity and the build-up of waste products. Deacidification can also restore our desired quality of life if we are in a bad mood, upset or tired.

Why is the acid-base balance important?

Enzymatic activity: Enzymes, which are responsible for biochemical reactions in the body, function most efficiently in a certain pH range. A disturbed acid-base balance can impair enzymatic activity and thus slow down the entire metabolism. We need enzymes for all vital body processes: digestion, detoxification, metabolism, intact defences, for the production of energy, for cell division and hormone production - among other things.

Immune system: A balanced acid-alkaline balance helps the immune system to fight pathogens more effectively. An acidic environment can increase susceptibility to infections, while a slightly alkaline environment can strengthen the immune defence.

Electrolyte balance: The regulation of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and calcium, which are crucial for nerve and muscle activity, depends on the acid-base balance. An imbalance can lead to muscle cramps, weakness and other problems.

Bone health: An acidic environment in the body can lead to the mobilisation of alkaline minerals such as calcium from the bones, which can lead to osteoporosis and other bone problems in the long term.

What if the body is over-acidified?

The effects of hyperacidity can be manifold and affect various organs and functions of the body. Here are some possible consequences. If one or more of the symptoms occur, it may be due to an imbalance in the acid-base balance.

• Disruption of metabolism and enzyme activityEnzymes, which are responsible for numerous biochemical processes in the body, work most efficiently in a certain pH range. Acidosis can impair the activity of these enzymes, which can slow down the normal metabolism. This can also lead to weight gain or reduced detoxification performance.
• Restriction of the immune systemAn over-acidified body can impair the function of the immune system. The immune system works optimally in a slightly alkaline environment. An acidic environment, on the other hand, can weaken the body's defences against pathogens.
• Loss of minerals from the bones: In order to regulate the pH value in the blood, the body can mobilise alkaline minerals such as calcium from the bones. In the long term, this can lead to impaired bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Muscle problems: Acidosis can lead to muscle problems, including muscle tension, cramps and weakness. This is because an acidic environment can impair the normal functioning of muscles and nerves.
• Digestive problems: An acidic stomach can lead to digestive problems such as heartburn and acid reflux. The acidity in the stomach plays an important role in the digestion of food. Too much stomach acid is usually produced when we produce toxins such as alcohol and nicotine, which then cannot digest food but can attack the stomach lining.
• Exhaustion and tiredness: Acidosis can cause exhaustion and tiredness, as the disturbed metabolism and impaired nutrient absorption affect energy production.

Causes of an imbalance in the acid-base balance:

• Nutrition: An excessive intake of acid-forming foods such as meat, dairy products, sugar and refined carbohydrates can lead to an over-acidified state.
• Stress: Chronic stress can affect the acid-base balance. Stress hormones promote acidic reactions in the body. The cause is of secondary importance to the body - whether it is a boss, relationship, family, noise, emotional stress or severe physical strain. Silent inflammation and internal processes are also stress.
• Dehydration: A lack of fluid intake can lead to the body not being able to excrete enough acids, resulting in acidosis.
• Environmental factors: Polluted air, chemicals and environmental toxins can affect the pH value in the body.

Measures to support a balanced acid-base balance:

• Balanced diet: A diet rich in alkaline foods such as leafy and root vegetables can promote deacidification. These include, for example, spinach, cabbage, chard, fennel, celery and carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, fruit, nuts and seeds.
• Detox breathing: An important correction mechanism of the acid-base balance is the so-called "respiratory compensation". Breathing regulates the carbon dioxide (CO2) content in the blood, which in turn influences the pH value. If the pH value in the blood drops, i.e. the environment becomes acidic (acidosis), the body reacts by increasing respiration and thus removing more CO2 from the blood. CO2 is an acidic compound and by removing CO2 from the blood, the pH value is raised again to maintain a normal range. Detox breathing directly after getting up at an open window is best. For example, a snorting exhalation through the nose, about 30 times or up to 60 times if necessary, is detoxifying.
• Oil pulling: Immediately after breathing, oil pulling can be included in the dental care routine. This also supports deacidification and detoxification.
• Adequate fluid intake: Water plays a decisive role in the elimination of acids. Adequate fluid intake is therefore essential. A glass of water with fresh lemon juice in the morning provides an excellent basis for a balanced acid-base balance.
• Stress management: Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and relaxation exercises, can help to stabilise the acid-base balance.
• Regular exercise: Sporting activities promote blood circulation and metabolism, which can have a positive effect on the acid-base balance.
• Alkaline baths: A warm bath with alkaline salts for approx. 30 minutes is an important part of deacidification. Alkaline baths contain, for example, magnesium and calcium, alkaline carbonates such as sodium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, potassium carbonate or natural salts such as sea salt and crystal salt. It doesn't always have to be a bathtub, even an alkaline foot bath ensures a beneficial balance of the acid-base balance.

Overall, a balanced acid-alkaline balance is crucial for maintaining optimum health. By consciously de-acidifying through diet, adequate hydration, alkaline baths and stress management, we can actively contribute to supporting this balance and thus lay the foundation for a healthy and energised life. A deeper understanding of the importance of the acid-base balance enables us to become aware of our lifestyle. If we notice symptoms of acidosis, we can relieve our body in a simple way through regular detoxification - to great effect.

Alkaline diet

The acid-alkaline balance in the body can be influenced by diet. There are foods that are considered acidic or alkaline, and the right choices can help maintain an acid-alkaline balance. Here are some nutrients and foods that are important for acid-alkaline balance:

Alkaline foods:

• Vegetables: Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli and celery are alkalising. Cucumbers and avocados also help to alkalise the body.
• Fruit: Citrus fruits such as lemons and limes, as well as alkaline fruits such as melons and berries, have an alkalising effect.

Nutrients that contribute to an alkaline environment:

1. Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium are alkaline minerals. Foods such as almonds, sesame seeds, bananas, potatoes and spinach are rich in these minerals.
2. Vitamins: Vitamin C from citrus fruits and other fruits and vegetables can promote an alkaline environment.
3. Water: Adequate fluid intake is crucial for the elimination of acids. Drinking water is the best choice.
4. Acidic foods in moderation: A balanced acid-base balance does not mean avoiding acid-forming foods completely. However, they should be consumed in moderation.
5. Proteins: Meat, fish, eggs and dairy products are protein-rich foods that have an acidic effect. They should be consumed in a balanced ratio to alkaline foods.
6. Conscious food choices: Wholemeal products: Compared to refined carbohydrates, wholemeal products tend to have an alkalising effect.
7. Healthy fats: Healthy fats from nuts, seeds and avocados can contribute to alkalisation.
8. Herbs and spices: Some herbs and spices have an alkalising effect, including parsley, basil, coriander and mint. They can be used in the kitchen to flavour dishes.

It is important to note that the effects of foods on the acid-base balance depend not only on their pH value in the food itself, but also on their metabolic processing in the body. A balanced diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables and wholemeal products generally supports a healthy acid-base balance. Additional healthy morning routines such as a short breathing session at an open window, oil pulling and a glass of lemon water provide a solid foundation for a healthy acid-base balance in the morning. In the evening, an alkaline salt bath provides a soothing end to the day. It doesn't have to be the whole body, just putting your feet in a warm bath is often enough.

We advise you to consider individual dietary habits and possible health conditions. If you are unsure, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist or health expert for personalised advice.