So many folks theses days are trying to get fit and stay healthy, but theres one aspect many overlook. Body P.H. The P.H. scale measures the amount of acid in your body. Technically speaking ,&bsp; P.H. stands for potential hydrogen, and the P.H. scale ranges from 1 to 14. Anything below 7 is considered an acidic, and anything above 7 is alkaline. An acid is a 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 become, the more diseased they also become. When our cells undergo respiration, IE, everyday living, they give off acids. Our bodies do use some of these acids as fuel, but the rest of these acids are actually bad for us . Too much acid in the body is called acidosis. &bsp;

An acid-alkaline balance is important, because all bodily functions, including digestion, respiration, and metabolism work best at particular P.H. levels.&bsp; The body does have ways of trying to deal with acidosis.

One way is to store the acid in fat cells. The problem with this, is that the body will tend to increase its fat stores.

Another way the body tries to handle too much acid, is to use calcium as a buffer. The problem with this is that the body will actually sometimes pull calcium from its bones, thereby making them weaker. One of the best ways to alkalize your body is through use of your diet. Some examples of alkalizing foods include, peppers, carrots, pineapple, eggs, squash, most spices, cherries, cucumber, apples, cantaloupe, asparagus, and almonds. Some examples of acidifying foods include, corn, beef, tuna, most oils, lamb, alcohol, and turkey.

Now dont get me wrongIm not saying you should never eat foods that are acidifying, Im saying to eat more alkalizing ones. In my opinion, the ideal diet would consist of 75% alkalizing foods, and 25% acidifying foods. Be careful though. Some foods that are acidic when you eat them, are actually alkalizing when they are digested.

For example, oranges and lemons are alkaline foods. Also, Apple cider vinegar turns alkaline once its digested. Conversely, distilled vinegar stays acidic in our bodies. In fact, consuming lemons and apple cider vinegar are two of the best ways to alkalize your body. On my website, I have a list of acidifying and alkalizing foods.

Fitness or nutrition question? E-mail me at dwcrocker77@gmail.com or visit fitness4yourlife.org

David Crocker of Landrum has served as strength director of the Spartanburg Y.M.C.A., strength coach, S.C. state champion girls gymnastic team, USC-Spartanburg baseball team, and Converse college equestrian team. He taught four semesters at USC-Union. David is also a regular guest of the Pam Stone Show. David also served as lead trainer to L.H.Fields Modeling Agency.