Alkalize or Die

1. Alkaline-Acid Balance: The Foundation of Health

"The countless names attached to illnesses do not really matter. What does matter is that they all come from the same root cause . . . too much tissue acid waste in the body!"

Understanding pH balance. Our bodies function optimally when maintained in a slightly alkaline state. The pH scale ranges from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly alkaline), with 7 being neutral. Ideal blood pH is around 7.35-7.45, slightly alkaline. When our bodies become too acidic, it leads to a host of health problems.

Acid waste accumulation. Modern diets and lifestyles often lead to an accumulation of acid waste in our tissues. This excess acidity can cause inflammation, fatigue, and various chronic diseases. By focusing on alkaline-forming foods and practices, we can help our bodies maintain proper pH balance and optimal health.

Common symptoms of excess acidity:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Frequent infections
• Joint pain and muscle aches
• Digestive issues
• Skin problems
• Headaches and mood swings

2. The 80/20 Rule: Eating for Optimal Alkalinity

"To replenish and sustain your alkaline reserves, follow the Rule of 80/20 - which means to eat 80% of your foods from the alkaline-forming list and 20% from the acid-forming list."

Alkaline-forming foods. The majority of our diet should consist of alkaline-forming foods. These include most fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, as well as certain nuts, seeds, and legumes. These foods help neutralize acid waste and support overall health.

Acid-forming foods. While some acid-forming foods are necessary for a balanced diet, they should be consumed in moderation. Common acid-forming foods include meat, dairy, refined grains, sugar, and processed foods. By limiting these foods to 20% of our diet, we can maintain a healthy alkaline balance.

Examples of alkaline-forming foods:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, chard)
• Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, grapefruits)
• Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower)
• Almonds and other nuts
• Quinoa and millet

Examples of acid-forming foods:

• Red meat and poultry
• Dairy products
• White flour and refined grains
• Processed snacks and sugary foods
• Alcohol and caffeine

3. Hydration: The Power of Alkaline Water

"Distilled water, being negatively charged, draws to it the positively charged acid-waste products and flushes them into the elimination channels."

Importance of water quality. The type of water we drink plays a crucial role in maintaining our alkaline balance. Distilled water and alkaline-restructured water are recommended for their ability to help flush out acid waste from our bodies.

Proper hydration. Adequate water intake is essential for maintaining alkaline balance and overall health. The author recommends calculating your daily water needs by dividing your body weight (in pounds) by 2, and drinking that many ounces of water per day.

Benefits of alkaline water:

• Helps neutralize acid waste in the body
• Supports proper hydration and cellular function
• May improve nutrient absorption
• Can boost energy levels and overall well-being

4. Digestive Health: The Role of Hydrochloric Acid

"Hydrochloric acid is absolutely essential for life. Without it the body cannot make the proper chemical conversions to alkalinity."

HCL production. Adequate hydrochloric acid (HCL) production in the stomach is crucial for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Contrary to popular belief, many digestive issues are actually caused by too little HCL, not too much.

Importance of digestive enzymes. In addition to HCL, digestive enzymes play a vital role in breaking down food and maintaining alkaline balance. When we consume cooked or processed foods, taking supplemental enzymes can help ensure proper digestion and reduce acid waste production.

Functions of hydrochloric acid:

• Breaks down food in the stomach
• Activates digestive enzymes
• Kills harmful bacteria and pathogens
• Supports nutrient absorption (especially B12 and minerals)
• Stimulates the release of other digestive secretions

5. Exercise and Physical Factors: Balancing Acidity

"Exercising with good aerobic activity to just before the point of exhaustion creates an alkaline response because of the increased oxygenation."

Beneficial exercise. Regular, moderate exercise can help maintain alkaline balance by increasing oxygenation and supporting proper elimination of acid waste. However, overexertion can lead to increased acidity, so it's important to find the right balance.

Physical trauma and acidity. Injuries and physical stress can create acid-forming reactions in the body. Proper care and recovery, including alkaline-forming practices, can help mitigate these effects and support healing.

Alkaline-forming exercises:

• Brisk walking
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga and stretching
• Tai chi or qigong

6. Stress Management: The Alkaline-Forming State of Being

"The alkaline-forming state of being is driven neither by anxiety nor ambition. Recognition and fame may come however, because the inherent nature of love has been realized."

Emotional impact on pH. Our emotional state significantly affects our body's pH balance. Stress, anger, and anxiety can create acid-forming reactions, while love, joy, and gratitude promote alkalinity.

Mindfulness practices. Incorporating mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and visualization can help reduce stress and support an alkaline-forming state of being.

Alkaline-forming emotional practices:

• Gratitude journaling
• Loving-kindness meditation
• Acts of service and kindness
• Spending time in nature
• Cultivating positive relationships

7. Detoxification: Cleansing Your Body of Acid Waste

"When you change the diet to more alkaline-forming foods and supplements, tissue acid wastes start to mobilize toward the bloodstream and lymphatic elimination channels."

Healing crisis. As the body begins to detoxify and eliminate acid waste, temporary symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or skin breakouts may occur. This "healing crisis" is a sign that the body is rebalancing and should be supported with continued alkaline practices.

Supporting elimination. Proper elimination through the colon, kidneys, skin, and lungs is crucial for removing acid waste from the body. Supporting these elimination channels through diet, hydration, and specific practices can enhance detoxification.

Detoxification support methods:

• Colon cleansing (colonics or enemas)
• Dry skin brushing
• Sauna or sweat therapy
• Deep breathing exercises
• Lymphatic massage

8. Supplements: Supporting Your Alkaline Journey

"Alkaline-forming super-foods are driven neither by anxiety nor ambition. Recognition and fame may come however, because the inherent nature of love has been realized."

Essential supplements. While a balanced diet should be the foundation, certain supplements can support alkaline balance and overall health. Key supplements include digestive enzymes, probiotics, minerals, and alkaline-forming superfoods.

Quality matters. When choosing supplements, opt for high-quality, natural sources that are easily absorbed by the body. Avoid synthetic supplements, which can create additional acid waste.

Recommended alkaline-forming supplements:

• Chlorophyll or green superfood powders
• Mineral supplements (especially magnesium and calcium)
• Digestive enzymes and betaine HCL
• Probiotics and fermented foods
• Vitamin C with bioflavonoids

9. The Vagus Nerve: Key to Alkaline Balance

"When working according to God's plan, the vagus is the alkaline-forming component in the nervous system."

Vagus nerve function. The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions, including digestion, heart rate, and immune response. When functioning properly, it supports alkaline balance throughout the body.

Supporting vagal tone. Various practices can help stimulate and strengthen the vagus nerve, promoting overall health and alkaline balance. These include deep breathing, cold exposure, and specific physical exercises.

Ways to support vagus nerve function:

• Gargling and singing
• Cold showers or face dunking
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Yoga and gentle exercise
• Massage and acupuncture

10. Environmental Factors: Navigating Modern Acid Challenges

"Mother Earth herself is screaming out for the alkaline way of life. I wonder how long She will continue to tolerate our acid-forming abuse?"

Modern toxins. Our environment is filled with acid-forming substances, from air pollution to chemical-laden products. Awareness and conscious choices can help minimize exposure and support alkaline balance.

Natural solutions. Incorporating more natural, organic products into our lives and supporting environmental initiatives can help reduce the acid burden on our bodies and the planet.

Strategies for reducing environmental acid exposure:

• Choose organic foods when possible
• Use natural cleaning and personal care products
• Filter your air and water
• Reduce plastic use and exposure
• Support sustainable and regenerative practices

11. Spiritual Alignment: The Ultimate Alkaline Practice

"Alignment with the Holy Spirit is the most powerful and rapid way of achieving an alkaline-forming reaction in the body."

Spiritual connection. Cultivating a connection with a higher power or universal energy can profoundly impact our alkaline balance and overall well-being. This spiritual alignment can help reduce stress, promote positive emotions, and support healing.

Integrative approach. Combining spiritual practices with physical and emotional alkaline-forming habits creates a holistic approach to health and wellness. This integration allows for deeper healing and transformation on all levels.

Spiritual practices for alkaline balance:

• Prayer and meditation
• Gratitude and forgiveness practices
• Energy healing modalities
• Connecting with nature
• Serving others and cultivating compassion

Last updated: November 18, 2024