Acid/alkali imbalance

The ideal pH for the body is between 6.0 and 6.8. Any disturbance from this is considered an acidic (if pH<6.0) or alkaline imbalance (if pH>6.8). Litmus paper can be purchased from a pharmacy and used to test the pH of saliva or urine.

Acidosis – symptoms: insomnia, water retention, recessed eyes, arthritis, abnormally low blood pressure, laboured breathing associated with pulmonary conditions (asthma, bronchitis, obstruction of the airway), uncontrolled diabetes mellitus alternating constipation and diarrhoea.

Alkalosis – symptoms: hyperventilation, seizures, sore muscles and joints, drowsiness, hypertension, hypothermia, chronic indigestion, night coughs and vomiting. Alkalosis can also result from excessive intake of drugs containing sodium bicarbonate to treat peptic ulcers.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist or naturopath.