Protection for the joints: when the body is over-acidified

If your joints hurt, this could be caused by an acid-base imbalance. Unfortunately, many of those affected are not aware of the connection. What happens when the body is over-acidified and what you should do.

Glückliche Frau wandert mit ihrem Hund© iStock
A balanced acid-base balance is important for our joints, ligaments and tendons.

Acid-base balance in equilibrium

Our body is incredibly versatile, almost like a chemistry laboratory: substances react with each other, new cells are formed, waste products are broken down - every minute of the day and even at night. Without this interaction, a well-functioning metabolism would not be possible. This makes it all the more important to keep the acid-base balance in equilibrium. This is best achieved with acidic and alkaline substances from food. Our lifestyle often throws this balance out of kilter - stress, environmental pollution, fast food, cola, soft drinks, too much fat, too many sweets or even being overweight all affect the metabolism.

Acid accumulates in the joint cartilage

A frequent consequence: acidification of the body. Typical symptoms initially include tiredness and a lack of drive. If the body can no longer cope with the excess acid in the long term, it deposits it in the connective tissue. This also includes ligaments, tendons and joint cartilage. The negative effect: their elasticity decreases. This increases the risk of chronic back pain, bone and cartilage diseases. If the acids can no longer be excreted via the kidneys and the storage capacity of the connective tissue is no longer sufficient, there is only one thing left for the body to do: it takes alkaline minerals from the bones to balance its acid-base balance.

Alkaline preparations relieve pain

This imbalance can be avoided by a high alkaline intake in foods such as fruit, vegetables and salad. If you cannot afford this in the long term or suffer from fructose intolerance, you can also take alkaline supplements from the pharmacy. Products with organic minerals that only dissolve in the small intestine are good. Studies have shown the pain-relieving effect on chronic back pain and rheumatoid arthritis.