Essential Food Guide: Definition of a Standard Eating Plan
The human body maintains a delicate balance, and one of the key factors in this balance is the pH level. Acidosis, a low pH value in the body, can lead to various diseases, and that's where the alkaline diet comes into play. This diet, developed by Dr. Robert Young, aims to prevent acidosis and the related health issues.
The alkaline diet is designed to protect the body from acidosis and the diseases it can cause. It primarily focuses on plant-based foods in their unprocessed form. Alkaline foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes, increase the pH value in the body, counteracting tissue acidosis. On the other hand, acid-forming foods, like beef, pork, and lamb, decrease the pH value.
Tissue acidosis is a significant concern, as it is associated with various health issues. For instance, it weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. It also plays a role in vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and is linked to dangerous diseases of the musculoskeletal system like arthritis and osteoporosis. Moreover, tissue acidosis can even cause mental disorders such as depression.
It's important to note that the body can neutralize acute blood acidosis through excretion, but chronic tissue acidosis is not so easily managed. Kidney function is crucial in this process, as they help excrete the excess acids from the body.
The alkaline diet suggests avoiding or limiting meat and most animal products, fast food, highly processed foods, canned foods, and alcohol. Instead, it encourages the consumption of alkaline foods like dried figs, which have a tenfold higher alkaline effect than watermelons according to the diet.
In conclusion, the alkaline diet offers a natural approach to combat acidosis and promote health. By focusing on alkaline foods and avoiding acid-forming ones, individuals can help maintain the delicate balance within their bodies and potentially prevent a host of diseases. As always, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.