Are You (your body) Tripping? Where Does and Doesn’t Acidity Benefit Us and How Can We Alkalinize?

Sick all the time, worried about bone density, battling frequent skin blemishes and / or digestive complaints? An overly acidic system could be the (part of) culprit. Why? Bad bacteria (skin, immunity, digestions issues) and viruses (immunity) thrive in an acidic environment, the body removes calcium from the bone to alkalinize itself (bone density). While our body needs acid in the stomach (see GERD blog), the rest of the digestive tract and resulting urine is meant to be alkaline for optimal health. Things that contribute to excess acidity:

1. Excess animal protein – if you eat animal protein keep portion control and make sure to balance it with plenty of alkaline food choices (see below)
2. Chronic stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, unresolved anger – overall depletion – tough times happen, stress isn’t the enemy, but learning to relax and replenish the system is critical. Read about the TEN Essential Nutrients blogrn
3. Artificial stuff: sweeteners, preservatives – extra hydrogen or acidic ions produce inappropriate acidity in the body. Eat food. (period)
4. Unnaturally White: white sugar, white flour equals acid-forming.

How can I alkalinize my system? Reducing the acidifiers is one way. Increasing your Alkalinizers is another. Here are some ideas:

• http://s3.wordpress.com/wp-content/themes/pub/mistylook/img/bullet.png);"> Add lemon to your water – a weak “acid”, lemon provides a paradox – it actually alkalinizes!
• Go GREEN: includes alkalinizers such as parsley, seaweeds, kale, celery, and spinachrn
• Choose whole grains (vs flour) and sprouted (even more alkaline-forming) – standouts include quinoa, millet, and amaranth (don’t know what to do with these? I’ve made recipes with each in my digestive wellness cookbook Recipes for IBS)
• Play around with incorporating these potent alkalinizers: sesame seeds (great source of calcium), fresh coconut, almonds, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, cayenne, and watermelon