Acid-base balance: general concepts, causes of disturbance

Often on television and in newspapers you can hear or read an advertisement in which something is said about the acid-base balance, its violations, etc. However, not all clearly understand the meaning of this phrase, and accordingly, - the reasons for the violation are not clear, therefore, we will speak about these concepts and about maintaining a healthy balance in the body.

Our blood has an active reaction, which is determined by the hydrogen pH. The optimum pH is 7.36. Depending on various factors, the acidity of the blood may change, but if it falls below 7.0 or rises above 7.8, a person may die. The bias of the reaction to a more acidic side occurs with excessive consumption of protein foods, and with active consumption of plant - the blood is filled with bases (alkalis).

The acid-base state of the body is constantly maintained by the buffer systems of the blood, which include protein, hemoglobin, phosphate and carbonate. They neutralize most of the incoming alkalis and acids, regulating the blood reaction. But it is worth bearing in mind that most of the decay products in the body, as a result of metabolism, are acidic (uric acid, amino acids, lactic acid in muscles, etc.), and if they are supplemented by improper diet and sedentary lifestyle The work of buffer systems is much more difficult.

In this case, to maintain the acid-base balance and neutralize Acid, the body will have to use its own alkaline reserves (calcium, iron, potassium, etc.). In this case, their absence will be felt by the person in the form of fatigue (lack of iron), insomnia and irritability (lack of calcium), mental activity will also be impaired due to a decrease in mineral tissues in the nerve tissues.

Thus, when all the reserves have been exhausted, the acidity in the blood rises - this violation is called acidosis. Violated acid-base balance causes headaches, chronic fatigue, deterioration of the skin, depressive mood, and also contributes to a number of other serious diseases.

How can we avoid such distortions and keep the acid-base balance in balance? Modern medicine offers a variety of means, but the most natural and effective way is balanced nutrition and exercise. Uniform food, consisting mainly of meat and flour products, the use of alcoholic beverages, coffee, sugar leads to acidosis. Therefore, by excluding (or at least reducing) consumption of "acidic" foods and adding more vegetarian food (fresh vegetables and fruits) to your diet, and also increasing motor activity, you naturally neutralize excess acidity and thus get rid of many problems.

People who support the acid-base balance of the body and lead a healthy, active lifestyle, practically do not need medicines, full of vivacity, joy and strength. Be healthy!