Acidosis is a condition in which the blood becomes overly acidic. Acidosis occurs when the body loses its alkaline reserve. It is caused by improper diet (too much protein from animal foods- The World health organization (WHO) recommends that protein should only be 5% of the daily caloric intake, or about 40 grams.). The digestion of animal foods and excess protein causes large quantities of acids to be produced in the intestines. Sometimes, these acids are in such excess that they seep into the bloodstream and up into the esophagus causing acidosis. This makes the blood dangerously acidic and the body must use alkaline minerals to restore the pH balance immediately. The body leeches calcium from the bones and other alkaline minerals in order to restore the proper ph balance. Antacids only masks the real underlying problem. If this condition is not dealt with, it can lead to much more serious ailments such as Peptic Ulcer, Kidney Stones, and Osteoporosis.
Symptoms:
Insomnia, water retention, arthritis, migraine headaches, abnormally low blood pressure, difficulty swallowing, burning in the mouth or under the tongue, and bumps on the tongue or roof of the mouth.
- Eat as many raw, fresh fruits and vegetables as possible as these are alkaline forming foods and have rich concentrations of calcium and other important vitamins and minerals. Alkaline forming foods include: avocado, corn, dates, fresh coconut, most fresh fruits, most fresh vegetables, raisins, soy products and kelp.
Things to Avoid:
- Avoid ALL animal products (all meats, chicken, turkey, fish, milk, cheese, cream, butter, eggs, etc…) All of these foods are acid forming and will continue to cause acidosis.
- Avoid alcohol, white flour products (pasta, cereals, breads), oily foods, sugar, coffee, and soft drinks.
References:
- J. McDougall, M.D, “The McDougall Plan,” (1983): pp100-102
- S. Margen, “Studies in Calcium Metabolism, the Calciuretic Effect of Dietary Protein,” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 27(1974): 584
- W. Rose, “The Amino Acid Requirement of Adult Man, XVI, the Role of the Nitrogen Intake,” J Boil Chem 217 91955): 997
- James F. Balch, M.D, Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing,” (1997)
