We have all experienced that acidic sensation in our stomachs, for some this is a daily struggle, leaving the problem untreated can lead to an unhealthy environment in which illnesses can develop due to the excess gastrointestinal acid.
When our bodies produce excess gastrointestinal acid our body takes the essential minerals from our vital organs and bones to neutralise the acid and remove it from the body, this is our natural defence mechanism, however with this natural process comes other problems, our calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium levels can begin to run severely low, leading to future problems such as acidosis if not monitored carefully.
Finding the right balance
Our stomachs are generally around 3.5 on the pH scale, this is the ideal marker for breaking down and digesting foods properly.
If you experience issues with heartburn or acid reflux, this could be related to your diet. The ideal blood pH level should read somewhere between 7.35 and 7.45 this is around the ‘Neutral’ marker but slightly alkaline. When your body is below this threshold this is usually due to foods which we cannot process in a natural manner, this is often related to products such as fizzy drinks, caffeine, alcohol or processed foods, these don’t convert to alkaline very well.
There are many ways to deal with these increasing acid levels, the first change would be to look at your diet and make the necessary healthy changes. Look at a more alkaline based diet, providing the body with more plant based foods. Although some fruits have higher acid levels than other, our bodies are able to deal with these efficiently, this is because they are also alkaline producing foods.
There may also be other underlining issues related to your symptoms for which you should seek advice from a health care professional.
Neutralising your pH level with Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)
Sodium Bicarbonate also known as Baking Soda falls into the antacid category which is commonly used to treat problems like heartburn, acid indigestion and stomach upset. Sodium bicarbonate is also used to make the blood and urine more alkaline, this is why when it mixes with an acid, it alters the pH level. That’s why it can quickly soothe and neutralise an upset stomach.
Using Sodium Bicarbonate Externally
Because of it’s neutralising alkaline nature, Sodium Bicarbonate is commonly used externally to soothe sunburn or insect bites. Not only does it have a neutralising property, it is also an antiseptic to help relive the itchy sensation.
Leave a comment below to discuss your experience with using Sodium Bicarbonate