Balancing Body Chemistry with Nutritional Therapy
Healthy individuals ideally should have a blood PH which is alkaline and close to pH 7.4. In naturopathy nutrition we believe health problems arise when the body is in an acidic state. The pH of the human digestive tract is not the same throughout, as it varies from one organ system to another. For example the stomach’s PH has to be acidic due to it destroying harmful bacteria or pathogens that are ingested. However for good health the blood’s pH should be alkaline. Lots of things can trigger acidity to build up in the body. A diet high in sugars and dairy, stress and toxin overload from exposure and what we consume are just a few examples. The body tries to compensate for acidic pH by using alkaline minerals. If the body does not contain enough minerals to counteract the extra acid, a build up of acids in the cells can occur. One school of thought of how cancer proliferates is in acidic + low oxygen environment. So in terms of disease prevention you want to ensure you have the right pH which will further enable your body to effectively assimilate vitamins and minerals and stay energised and healthy for the long term.
You may be thinking….right I should get my pH levels tested. I do not believe this is necessary, especially as the body’s saliva and urine readings can fluctuate depending on the time of day. What is more beneficial is how to maintain the alkaline state and a consultation with a Nutritional Therapist or Naturopath can facilitate you on how to achieve this and balance your body chemistry with foods and supportive natural remedies.
