Much like chemicals in a chemistry lab, our bodies are also greatly measured by the levels of acid and alkaline. pH is the abbreviation for potential hydrogen, it is used to measure the hydrogen-ion concentration of a fluid. Any pH level below 7.0 is considered acidic and any pH level above 7.0 to 14 is alkaline.

The body operates better when it is slightly more alkaline; hence the importance for an alkaline based diet to control the pH levels of the body. Many health issues are related to acidity in the body, therefore without a slightly high alkaline level the body finds it difficult to heal itself. Below are 3 ways to measure alkaline.

Salivary pH Test

The ideal level of a salivary pH test should be around 6.4pH. It is usually more acidic but mirrors a blood pH test. It is only a fair indicator as it measures what the body retains and may not be as reliable as a blood or urine pH test. It measures the fluids entering the body.

Urinary pH Test

A urinary pH test indicates how the body works to maintain the pH level of the blood. It shows the effort to tear down acids through the kidneys, lungs and adrenals.

Blood pH test

This test measures the pH level of the blood and should ideally be 7.365. It varies by only a little so therefore can be of only limited benefit.

To have a sound idea of the levels of a body’s pH level all 3 tests are recommended. If the alkaline level of your body is low, here are some methods to counter it.

Supplements 

They contain potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron that are bicarbonate salts of alkaline minerals. They help reduce acidity quickly and effectively as possible. An alkaline diet protein can be consumed which eases acidity in the gut, thus helping with digestion.

Alkaline powder

This is a powdered alkaline mineral that can be mixed into food. Unlike the supplement the powered is absorbed into the circulation system. The alkaline powder reduces systemic acidity.

Alkaline diet

Vegetables, fruits and healthy fats are all contributors to an alkaline diet. Vegetables such as asparagus, eggplant, cucumber and garlic are a few of the many available. Fruits include tomatoes, coconut, and grapefruit help that are available in abundance. Olive oil, coconut oil and sunflower oils used in cooking or salads add to the alkaline diet. 

Drinking water

The easiest way to counter acidity is by drinking water. The litters consumed depends on the weight of the body, but are highly effective in washing out toxins and acids that form. Water helps to clear skin and keep the body hydrated and is easily the most effective method recommended.

While the methods mentioned are proved to be effective, other general methods to reduce acidity are to reduce stress levels. Trading strenuous exercise regimes into more controlled aerobic exercises help to break down acids. A few tweaks in our lifestyles and diets such as this will produce long -term results.