Acids and bases in the body

When nutritionists talk about acidosis, they mean that the acid-base balance is disturbed. By this they mean the ratio of acids to bases. As the term acidosis is also used in this context, this can easily lead to misunderstandings. The fact is: Acidosis of the blood must be treated immediately and is life-threatening! If, on the other hand, the acid-base balance is "only" slightly acidic, you can achieve a lot by changing your diet and combating this type of acidosis. However, stress and anxiety can also lead to this type of latent acidosis, so psychological causes must also be considered during treatment in order to achieve a holistic result.

The alkaline diet and its benefits

Acids and bases are formed in the body when food is metabolized. The more acidic foods you eat, the greater your need for alkaline foods. Conversely, an alkaline diet is good for your mineral balance and prevents mineral deficiencies. Whether a food is acidic or alkaline is not determined by its taste, but by how it is metabolized.

Alkaline foods include:
- kiwi
- spinach
- potatoes
- pears
- cauliflower

Acid-forming foods, on the other hand, include:
- meat
- fish
- parmesan
- cereals
- dairy products

As part of an alkaline diet, you should reduce acid-forming foods. However, this does not mean that you have to completely avoid these products.

You can find a table of alkaline foods HERE >>>

How healthy is an alkaline diet?

In general, your diet should always be as balanced as possible to ensure that your acid-alkaline balance remains in equilibrium. A slightly alkaline diet, in which mainly fruit and vegetables are eaten and meat and milk are reduced as far as possible, is also considered sensible with regard to minerals and vitamins.

Consequences of chronic acidosis

A permanent imbalance in the acid-base balance can have various effects on the body sooner or later. However, as chronic acidosis occurs without specific symptoms, it often goes undetected. However, there are signs that can indicate acidosis. The general state of health, for example, is affected by tiredness and exhaustion, as well as reduced performance. In addition, concentration often decreases and you become more sensitive to stress.

Physical complaints manifest themselves in the form of reduced resistance, muscle and joint complaints, while hair, skin and nails also change. The bones also suffer from an excess of acid and lose strength in the long term. The connective tissue also loses its elasticity.
Those affected should therefore ensure that their diet contains sufficient alkaline-forming foods. Such a change in diet takes time. Taking an alkaline product can help, and a food diary, for example, can help you identify your own nutritional mistakes.