How To Balance PH Levels in The Body and Why It Matters: A Detailed Overview
pH balance allows for correct cell function, nutrient absorption and enzyme activity in your body.
Your pH levels can be thrown off by an acidic diet (refined foods, alcohol, caffeine, processed meats, dairy), chronic stress and as you age.
An imbalanced pH can result in long-term health issues including Osteoporosis and trouble maintaining muscle mass.
Here we explain pH levels and how they impact your body. We’ll then share ways to balance your pH level naturally and how alkaline supplements could provide a little boost.
Disclaimer:Always speak with your doctor before taking any action regarding your health. Supplements have a wide range of potential effects and it's important to ensure that they are right for you. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. This post is based on general knowledge and does not provide specific medical advice. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as medical advice. You should discuss infertility concerns with your healthcare practitioner, and seek advice before commencing any supplement regime. |
What are pH Levels?
pH is the measure of a solutions’ hydrogen ion concentration. pH content is rated on a scale from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline).
You’re aiming for a pH level of around 7.4 - slightly alkaline - for your blood to nourish your tissues and organ systems [1].
When your pH is balanced your body is able to get rid of excess acids and keep your system functioning.
When your pH is imbalanced your body struggles to detox from the acids. Your body then sucks alkalising minerals from your bones and elsewhere, which can cause inflammation and lead to disease.
When we say ‘pH imbalance’ we mean either too acidic/not acidic enough or too alkaline/not alkaline enough.
Each of these variances can lead to a different set of health complications as your body tries to neutralise pH levels.
Why Does Your pH Level Matter?
Consuming an acid-forming diet and certain environmental factors reduce your body’s ability to cope with acidity. This can result in bone loss, fatigue and system toxicity.
The standard diet has become heavy in acidic, refined foods. Combine this with ageing, and our bodies may be struggling to neutralise pH.
This puts stress on your body’s detoxification systems (liver, kidneys, intestines, lymphatic system) which can lead to health issues including:
- Osteoporosis and bone loss: Calcium may be taken from bones to restore pH
- Trouble maintaining muscles mass: glutamine may be pulled from skeletal muscles when your body attempts to neutralise pH
- Inflammation and increase in homocysteine in the blood over time: this could increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzeimer’s Disease [4]
When pH is imbalanced, your body is forced to work hard to try to fix the issue. Excess mineral loss decreases nutrient absorption; toxins and pathogens gather in your body and have the potential to suppress your immune system [2].
Symptoms of Unbalanced pH Levels
Depending on the type of pH imbalance, early symptoms may include [5]:
- Chronic colds and flu
- Headaches
- Indigestion
- Inflammation
- Fatigue
- Allergies
- Muscle Cramping
- Sinus and breathing problems
Symptoms will vary depending on whether your pH is on the acidic or alkaline end of the scale. You should consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health concerns.
How to Balance Your pH Naturally
Natural remedies to restore pH balance include:
- Eat more alkaline foods including detoxifying greens such as:
- Chlorophyll
- Spirulina
- Chlorella
- Avoid refined sugar
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise regularly
- Practice strategies to manage stress
- Dry brushing to stimulate your lymphatic system
How to Balance pH with Supplements
If you’re wondering how to balance your pH levels quickly, an Alkaline supplement may be for you.
Alkalising formulas combine calcium, magnesium and potassium. They can help to shift your body’s pH level towards the alkaline end of the scale by filling in nutritional gaps and countering an acidic base pH.
Studies show that alkalising supplements can have an effect on acid base balancing in as little as one hour after consumption [3].
Doesn’t get much quicker than that!
Several studies have shown alkaline mineral supplementation can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, particularly osteoporosis [3] in those with an acidic pH level.
The Benefits of Alkaline Supplements
- Assists in restoring acid alkaline balance in your body
- May improve your body’s stress response
- May improve bone mineral density
- Supports liver health through detoxification
- Supports energy production
Best Alkaline Supplements
BioPractica Basica Activ E Mineral Alkalising Formula
Easy-to-prepare alkalising formula with a pleasant orange flavour. Helps to replenish mineral stores in the body and neutralise an acidic base pH. Contains:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Zinc
- Vitamins B2 and C
Take once daily. Click on the product to read more.
Side Effects / Precautions / Interactions
Alkaline supplements are generally considered safe for healthy adults. Uncommon side effects (usually associated with excessive use) may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Disorientation
- Muscle spasms
Some products contain selenium which is toxic in high doses. A daily dose of 150 micrograms from supplements for adults should not be exceeded.
Alkaline supplements are not recommended for those with kidney problems or those using beta blockers [2]. If you have an underlying medical condition, consult your GP before use.
Summary
Maintaining correct pH levels in your body is essential.
Our heavily acidic diets, environmental factors and ageing can throw off your pH balance and lead to an array of health issues.
Eating a balanced, alkaline rich diet, staying hydrated and avoiding refined foods is the best way to balance your pH. Alkaline supplements effectively buffer acids within your body if nutritional gaps exist.
References
[1] The Holistic Health Approach, 2023. Finding pH Balance. https://www.theholistichealthapproach.com/blog/finding-ph-balance
[2] Dr. Axe, 2018. 4 Steps to Achieve Proper pH Balance. https://draxe.com/health/ph-balance/#:~:text=Blood%20(serum)%20pH%2C%20as,6.8%20in%20a%20healthy%20individual.
[3] König D, Muser K, Dickhuth HH, Berg A, Deibert P. 2019. Effect of a supplement rich in alkaline minerals on acid-base balance in humans. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2702352/
[4] Women’s Health Network, 2024. pH Balance in The Body. https://www.womenshealthnetwork.com/digestive-health/ph-balance-in-the-body/
[5] Healthline, 2023. What Are The Long Term Effects of pH Imbalance? https://www.healthline.com/health/ph-imbalance
