Acidity
A hierarchy is in place for the priorities of survival. Second only to breathing and a heartbeat, the most important metabolic function is maintaining a specific pH. The term pH stands for potential hydrogen or the amount of hydrogen ions in a solution. The more ions in a solution, the higher the acidity level and the fewer ions the more alkaline or basic the solution. pH is measured on a scale from zero to fourteen with seven being neutral or mid-range.
Many things can influence the pH balance of a person, like stress, poor nutritional choices, medications, etc. Any drop in pH, no matter how slight, is the beginning of a disease state and effects when and how we age. All other organs and fluids will fluctuate in their range in order to keep the blood at a strict pH between 7.35 and 7.45. This process is called homeostasis.
You can easily monitor your pH with simple testing strips which can be purchased at your local pharmacy. Testing saliva is the easiest way to gauge the body’s pH. To test saliva: Wait 2 hours after eating. Spit into a spoon. Dip the strip. Read immediately. Use the color chart included. An optimal reading is 7.5. This indicates a very slightly alkaline body.
Urine is more acidic than saliva. To test urine: Test a urine sample first thing in the morning. Fill a small cup with urine, and dip a strip into the cup. Read immediately. An optimal reading is about 6.5
In the mouth, your saliva could have an increased pH level if you suffer from acidic reflux, indigestion, or gird. The stomach pH is much higher in acidity due to the need for hydrochloric acid to begin the digestion of food. If your mouth experiences a sustained higher level of acidity, you could suffer from an increase of cavities, dental or periodontal infections. Combine this issue with a dry mouth and a perfect storm will arise and create many dental, and sinus related problems.
Preventive and proactive measures need to be made on people with history of stomach or acid issues, and don’t forget pregnancies. Many women suffer from acid reflux to vomiting for prolonged period of times. A small amount may not affect your teeth but multiple months and multiple pregnancies will certainly take a toll on your teeth if you are not proactive. Fluoride may be a recommendation to neutralize the acidic effects on your mouth.
The most simple way to balance out a pH balance is through your diet. It is recommended to eat 75% of alkaline foods, but the typical American diet consists of an 85% acid food source. Increase your raw vegetables and fresh fruit and cut back on caffeinated soda drinks.
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