A poor diet and lack of exercise are the most common causes of acidosis in the body. Acidosis means that the acid-base balance has become unbalanced.

 

Acidosis of the body is characterised by bloating, flatulence, tiredness, lack of concentration, susceptibility to infections and circulatory disorders.

The balance between acids and bases in the body is the prerequisite for a well-functioning metabolism. The acidity of the body is measured by the pH value. The blood normally has a pH value of 7.4. If the value is below 7.35, the body is over-acidified. Indicator papers are available from pharmacies, which can be used to measure the acidity of the blood at home.

Certain acids are necessary and are produced in the body, such as stomach acid, which consists of hydrochloric acid. Substances ingested through food become acids through protein digestion or the fermentation process, which the body can neutralise in regular amounts and excrete via the kidneys, skin and lungs. However, if there is a chronic excess of acid in the body, cellular respiration deteriorates and health problems arise.

In most cases, too little exercise, too many stimulants (alcohol, coffee, black tea and nicotine) or environmental toxins such as exhaust fumes and fertilisers lead to hyperacidity. Other possible causes are stress, anger, electrosmog or certain metabolic diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease.

Meat, sausage, pasta, rice, fruit juices, fruit tea, yoghurt, sour cream, quark, eggs, hard cheese, smoked meats and sweets are considered to be particularly acid-forming or acid-rich foods. If eaten in excess, healthy vegetables such as artichokes, asparagus and sauerkraut can also produce too much acid.

In the case of acute hyperacidity, you should avoid acidic fruit, citrus fruits, berries, unripe fruit and sulphurised dried fruit, white flour products, carbonated drinks, alcoholic drinks, coffee, black tea and baker's yeast.
Alkalis are the natural antipoles of acids, i.e. they neutralise them and reduce excess acidity. Alkaline foods include minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, magnesium and iron, leafy salads, olives, onions, garlic, soya, algae, pulses, mushrooms, herbs and, above all, potatoes.

Deacidification cure

A deacidification programme is recommended to reduce excess acid in the body. During the deacidification cure, alkaline-rich foods are consumed and acid-forming foods are largely avoided. Slight hyperacidity regulates itself after just one week. In general, however, a deacidification cure of up to four weeks is recommended. To be on the safe side, you should discuss the deacidification programme with your doctor if you have any existing illnesses.

One hour's exercise per day is part of the cure, preferably with sweat. The food should be prepared using gentle cooking methods.

Permitted foods
Fresh vegetables and salads
one to two days old multigrain or wholemeal bread
Vegetable broth
Low-carbonated or still mineral water
Potatoes

Food that is not permitted
Common salt
Carbonated drinks
Citrus fruits
Alcohol
Coffee and black tea