The trend these days is for folks to  get fit, and stay healthy, but there’s one healthful aspect many overlook. Their body’s  pH. Technically speaking, pH. is an abbreviation for “potential hydrogen”.
The pH scale is a logarithmic scale that usually runs from 1 to 14. Anything below 7 on the scale is considered an acid, and anything above 7 is alkaline, with a pH of near 7 being neutral.
An acid is a chemical substance that releases hydrogen “ions”, and an alkaline substance removes hydrogen “ions.”
Our stomachs need to be more on the acidic side, but otherwise, the more acidic our bodies cells are, the more diseased they can become. In fact, some studies show that cancer cells thrive in an acidic environment.
When our cells undergo respiration,  that is, everyday living, they give off or produce acid compounds. Our bodies do use some of these acids as fuel, but the rest of these acids are actually bad for us .
Too much acid within our bodies is called “acidosis”. An acid-alkaline balance is important, because all bodily functions, including digestion, respiration, and metabolism work best at particular pH levels.
Our body does have ways of coping with acidosis. One way is to store the excess acids in fat cells. The problem with that, is the body will tend to increase its fat stores, thus making us over weight.
Another way the body tries to handle too much acid, is to recruit calcium (which is alkaline) as a buffer. The problem with this, is  the body can actually,  pull calcium from its bones, thereby making them weaker.
One of the best ways to alkalize your body is through proper use of your diet. Some examples of alkalizing foods include, peppers, carrots, whole grains, pineapple, eggs, squash, most spices (even hot ones), cherries, cucumber, apples, cantaloupe, asparagus, and almonds.
Some examples of acidifying foods include, corn, beef, tuna, most oils, lamb, alcohol, and turkey. Now don’t get me wrong…I’m not suggesting you should exclude all foods that are acidifying, because many of these foods contain nutrients we need.
I am recommending you consume more alkalizing ones. In my opinion, the ideal diet should consist of 75 percent alkalizing foods, and 25 percent acidifying foods.
One important fact to remember, though. Some foods that are acidic when you eat them, are actually alkalizing once digested. For example, oranges, lemons, and limes are “alkaline” foods. Also, Apple cider vinegar turns alkaline once it’s digested. Conversely, distilled vinegar remains acidic in our bodies. In fact, consuming lemons and apple cider vinegar are two of the very best ways to alkalize our bodies. Garlic’s great too. On my web site, I have a list of acidifying and alkalizing foods.
Well, we’re inside one week till the free nutrition/fitness seminar I’ll be hosting on Thursday April 3 at 6 p.m. at the Depot, off Trade street, downtown Landrum.
We’re going to have lots of fun and learn much about how our metabolisms work, how to lose body fat, build muscle, strengthen bones, feel better, stay healthy, and so much more.
Reserve your seats by calling 864-457-3369. Fitness or nutrition question? Email me at dwcrocker77@gmail.com or visit fitness4yourlife.org.
David Crocker of Landrum has been a nutritionist and master personal trainer for 27 years.
He served as strength director of the Spartanburg Y.M.C.A., head strength coach for the USC-Spartanburg baseball team,  S.C. state champion girl’s gymnastic team, and the   Converse college equestrian team.
He served as a water safety consultant to the United States Marine Corps.,  lead trainer to L.H. Fields modeling agency, and taught four semesters at USC-Union. David was also a regular guest of the Pam Stone radio show.