Understanding the Alkaline Diet and Its Potential Benefits
The alkaline diet has surged in popularity over recent years. But what exactly does it mean to eat alkaline foods? And what evidence supports the purported health effects? Let's explore the key principles along with the top alkaline electric foods to focus on.
Defining pH and Alkalinity Within the Body
pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline/basic a solution is on a scale from 0-14. Human blood needs to maintain a tightly regulated pH around 7.4. Even slight pH deviations below 7.35 or exceeding 7.45 cause adverse physiological reactions and impaired functioning.
Food ash residue after digestion and metabolism generates acids or bases (alkalis) that influence internal acid-base homeostasis. An alkaline diet aims to promote pH balance by emphasizing fresh fruits, veggies, roots, nuts, and legumes over acidifying animal proteins and processed grains.
Linking Dietary Acid Load to Disease Risks
Some research indicates that the typical Western diet heavy in meat, dairy, sugars, and processed fare generates a chronic acidic environmental associated with:
- Increased inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Endothelial dysfunction
- Bone mineral density loss
Over time this dietary acidosis correlates to higher incidence of hypertension, strokes, kidney disease, diabetes, and cancer in population studies.
Putting Alkaline Theory to the Scientific Test
Controlled intervention trials specifically analyzing alkaline diets remain limited. However available evidence shows promise for enhanced cardio-metabolic risk markers like blood pressure, cholesterol ratios, fasting glucose and inflammation.
Additional research focuses on measuring urine or blood pH changes in response to shifts in dietary acid/base load. Though findings vary based on methods used, increased intake of fruits and vegetables consistently promotes greater alkalinity.
Choosing the Best Alkaline Electric Food Groups
Minimizing acidic foods while emphasizing produce, plant proteins and unprocessed whole grains forms the foundation of an alkaline-focused eating plan.
Alkalizing Fruits and Vegetables
All non-citrus fruits and nearly all vegetables qualify as alkaline-promoting. Those highest on alkalizing
FAQs
How much space does an aquatic turtle need?
As a general rule, allow at least 10 gallons of tank space per inch of a turtle's full grown shell size. Bigger is always better to support exercise and enrichment.
What's the best tank substrate for aquatic turtles?
Smooth gravel or large grain sand between 1-5 mm diameter works well. Avoid using small pebbles that could be accidentally ingested.
Can I keep aquatic turtles with fish?
Only certain slower, non-nippy species of fish can safely live with small turtles. Larger adult turtles may eat tankmates. Research compatibility first.
Do I need special lighting for an outdoor turtle habitat?
Yes, you'll need adequate UVB-emitting bulbs for vitamin D3 synthesis plus potentially separate heat lamps depending on your climate and turtle species.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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