Last week we looked at the four things which research has proven to increase bone formation: MCHC calcium, strontium, Milk Basic Protein, and exercise. This week I want to discuss how our bodies’ pH (acidity) affects our bones.
Most people are too acidic as a result of a diet high in animal protein and grains, and low in fruits and vegetables. Chronic stress adds to the acid load.
The pH of the blood must be kept within a narrow range to maintain life. If our diet is acid producing, our bodies pull calcium and other minerals from the bones to act as buffers and neutralize the acid. It does this by both increasing the breakdown of bone and inhibiting the building of bone. A simple home test for saliva and urine pH will indicate if acidity is a concern for you.
So how can we alkalize ourselves to preserve our bones? Avoid excess animal protein (ironically including calcium-rich cheeses) but don’t eliminate them since protein is necessary for bone growth as well as many other functions. Reduce all grain products – bread, cereal, rice, pasta and baking. Oatmeal is one of the highest acid producing grains but is beneficial for other reasons. Balance the protein and grains you do eat by increasing fruits and vegetables. Fats and sugar are pH neutral. If diet doesn’t bring your pH back in line, there are alkalizing supplements available that can help. See my column # 26 from August 24, 2009 for more on pH.
To keep your bones strong and healthy, get adequate calcium and its cofactors from diet and supplements, and take Vitamin D. Keep your pH in balance by eating more fruits and vegetables and less animal protein and grains. And exercise regularly, particularly weight-bearing exercise.
This article is intended for educational purposes only; for medical advice consult your licensed health practitioner.
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