Acid-alkaline balance in the body is a complex subject. But a very brief overview is that our bodies function better when the tissues are at an optimal pH level. The pH scale measures hydrogen ions. A value of 7.0 is considered neutral - this is the value of pure water. Values below 7 are considered acidic. Values greater than 7 are considered alkaline. The body regulates the pH value of all tissues through a number of metabolic processes, respiration being the main one. There is some variation on what the optimal pH levels are for blood, tissues, saliva, etcetera. The optimal pH level of urine is a range from 6.2 to 7.5.
My research focuses on the pH value of urine because I have discovered that acid urine causes urethral pain and inflammation, and alkaline or neutral urine is pain-free. The pH of urine is determined by the pH value of bodily tissues and is influenced by what we eat. It is therefore easy to influence urine pH through mineral supplements and diet. We can make our urine more alkaline by eating an alkaline diet and taking supplements of certain minerals.
In a nutshell the minerals sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate and magnesium oxide promote an alkaline balance in the body.
Foods that are alkalinizing are most fruits and vegetables, especially potatoes (white and sweet), spinach, bananas, and raisins. These foods make the urine more alkaline and reduce the pain of urethral syndrome.
The acid-forming substances in food include all proteins and the minerals chloride and phosphorous. Acid-forming foods include meats, grains, beans and most dairy. The most acid-forming foods are hard cheeses, meats and grains. These foods make the urine more acid and increase the pain of urethral syndrome.
Sugar is neutral and milk, ice cream and yogurt are very close to neutral and do not significantly impact the urine pH.
See my page 'Alkaline Diet' at right if you want more detailed information.
It is not necessary to become an expert on the acid/alkaline properties of food. It is helpful to know that most fruits and vegetables create an alkaline balance in the body and that protein foods such as meat, grains (bread and pasta) and cheese make the body more acid.
(this page updated July 13, 2010)
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