There is so much talk about alkaline vs. acidic. So what is alkaline, and why does it matter? Very simply put, everything has a pH, which tells us whether it is acidic or alkaline. The pH scale runs from 0 to 14. Below 7 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and above 7 is alkaline.
Why Alkaline Matters
I believe that when the body is in a more acidic state, it creates an environment where sickness can take hold more easily. Many of the foods and products we use every day, like processed foods, sugar, soda and chemicals, are considered acid-forming. That is why my Make a Switch page is so important to me.
Changing your lifestyle, the food you eat and the products you use can help bring your body back into an alkaline balanced state and help support your health. I also believe that when your body is in a more alkaline state, your body’s frequency increases.
What the Science Says
It is good to know that your body is amazing at keeping your blood at a very steady pH, right around 7.4. Your lungs and kidneys work around the clock to do this. We can make this easier for our body based off what we eat and drink. The body being acidic is linked to cancer and other low frequency illnesses.
So why eat alkaline? Because the foods on an alkaline diet are the foods that are great for you anyway! An alkaline diet is full of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and water, and low in processed foods, sugar and excess meat. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are linked to lower blood pressure and better overall health. Being more conscious of the foods and your alkaline state is important.
How Do I Make My Body More Alkaline?
1. Eat More Alkaline Foods
Start eating more of the foods on the alkaline side of the chart above. Leafy greens, cucumbers, celery, avocados, lemons, sprouts and most vegetables are great places to start. Try to fill at least half your plate with veggies.
2. Cut Back on Acid-Forming Foods
Reduce sugar, soda, white flour, processed foods, alcohol, and large amounts of meat and dairy.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Our bodies are mostly water, so water is a great and easy place to start. Some people like water filters that also alkalinize the water, and a popular brand is Kangen. If you do not want to invest that much right now, simply add fresh lemon to your water. Even though lemons are acidic, they are considered alkaline-forming in the body.
4. Make the Switch on Products
Swap out chemical cleaners and personal care products for natural ones. See my Make a Switch page and my DIY non toxic cleaners.
5. Lower Stress and Breathe
Stress and shallow breathing affect the whole body. Deep breathing, rest, and time in nature help your body stay in balance.
Start Simple
You do not have to change everything overnight. focusing on brining up your alkaline and drinking lemon water or the PH drops is good for 2 weeks. Then back off and take a rest. You can pick it back up later and do another round. Ideas like: Add one more vegetable a day, swap one soda for lemon water, and make one switch in your home. Small steps add up, and your body will thank you.
This post shares my own experience and is not medical advice. Please talk with your doctor before making big changes to your diet, especially if you have kidney disease or take medications.
