It is stated a medical fact that all diseases thrive in environments characterized by high levels of acidity. If we want to lead a healthy life, it is imperative for us limit our intake of acidic foods. I ignoring this comes at a high price
Foods rich in acid may cause diseases like obesity, osteoporosis, flu, skin disorders, and even cancer. High acidity also results in cramps, spasms, headaches, joint and muscle pains, and fatigue. Eating too much acidic food and not enough alkaline food can also result to insomnia, stomach ulcers, water retention, and constipation.
Also, besides weakening the immune system, indulging in acidic foods can bring forth a decrease in strength and stamina, slow mental reaction, and ineffective digestion.
Acid foods per se can post a threat to our health, but the ubiquity of these foods even furthers the damage. You see, these foods are almost always splattered in peoples daily menus: from breakfast staples like white rice, eggs, cheese, milk, coffee to main courses like pasta, beef, pork, chicken, turkey, to light meals composed of chocolates and peanuts, beer and soft drinksand the list stretches longer than canteen tables! Foods that are rich in phosphorus, sulphur, and chlorine are not spared from the list since these elements are acid-forming.
So how do we steer clear of acidic foods? While it may seem impossible to escape these usual hunger-solvers, there is still a way to counteract their harmful effects on our health. The so-called alkaline diet, which is designed to neutralize the outcomes of acidic food ingestion through consumption of alkaline-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and other low-sugar foods, is a viable option. An alkaline diet can help restore the balance between acidity and alkalinity. According to Robert Young, who is a prime promoter of alkaline diet and alternative medicine, it is ideal for the body to have a diet that constitutes an intake of 70-80% alkaline foods and 20-30% acid foods.
So what it all boils down to is moderation. Acidic foods are not all bad for our health. In fact, they are an integral part of the balance Young is pointing out. It is even said that a little amount of acidthe right typecan help lower our blood glucose levels. Acetic acid, which is the chief acid in vinegar, can significantly reduce the glycemic index of a starchy meal.