While our dietary recommendations remain simple; eat lean meats, lots of fresh veggies, nuts and seeds, some fruit, little starch and no sugar, there are other important considerations as well. One that I see as tops on that list is to maintain proper pH, or acid, levels.
The importance of maintaining a balanced, neutral pH are as numerous as the reasons we lose our pH balance. Know this, that everything that we put into our bodies has an effect on our pH balance. The standard American diet that is high in sugar, grains and processed/refined foods is the number one culprit in elevated acid levels. Add to that fad diets that are based on high levels of protein and no cabs or fats and you create a society of renal-stressed, highly acidic, cellulite holding and osteoporosis developing individuals.
Why is maintaining a neutral pH so important? Here is my list of top reasons to pay attention to pH balance.
1) Hormone function: The majority of your bodily functions are dependent on hormone activity for regulation. In an acidic environment, hormone activity is diminished, and in some cases, completely inhibited. The result is improper blood sugar regulation, poor fat metabolism and accumulation of body fat.
2) Oxygenation: When our system becomes acidic, our red blood cells lose the ability to carry optima amounts of oxygen to our tissues. Hemoglobin, the main oxygen transport component of our cells, is adversely affected by high acid levels. The result is a decrease in work capacity during training limiting the positive effects of your training.
3) Kidney function: Our kidneys act as our primary filtration system, as well as a key component in balancing pH. In highly acidic environments, the kidney is stressed to the max. And, the kidney pulls calcium from our bone mineral to maintain balance contributing to weakened bones and osteoporosis.
4) Inflammation: Inflammation occurs in the gut, the joints and other tissues as a result of an imbalance i the pH. For you this means bloating, water retention, restricted ranges of motion, fatigue and PAIN!
So, with that being said, here is a great start at returning your system to balance and keeping it there.
1) Eat plenty of green vegetables. Green veggies have phytonutrients and minerals that your body needs to counteract the acid production of other poor quality foods and training.
2) Eliminate processed and refined foods from your diet. By cutting out food that causes acid elevation,
you don't have to work nearly as hard at supplementation .
3) Drink plenty of water. Give up the sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages and replace them with water.
4) Use our highly recommended supplement, Alkalete, which is designed to rid the body of acid and bring balance to our pH.
By following these 4 simple steps you can help yourself to feel better, look better and get more from you training efforts.
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