You can test your pH levels in the privacy of your own home. To do this, you will need to purchase pH paper or litmus strips from your local health food store or pharmacy. There are two at‑home methods for testing: saliva and urine testing. The results of urine testing indicate how well your body is assimilating minerals—especially calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. These minerals act as acid buffers and help the body control acid levels.
In other words, minerals—especially calcium—alkalinize the body!
You can also test your saliva’s pH. However, saliva pH fluctuates more throughout the day than urine pH, making it less consistent. A urine test reflects the food or drink you have recently consumed or, in the case of first‑morning urine, the work your kidneys have done overnight to buffer acids. This is important because urine testing is only an indicator of your overall pH range. Different parts of the body require different pH levels—some more acidic, some more alkaline.
The most important level is blood pH, which must remain slightly alkaline. Your physician can draw blood for a more accurate and comprehensive pH test if desired. For most people, urine testing is an adequate way to gauge pH trends.
Morning urine tends to be more acidic than at other times of the day. If the first urine is not acidic, it may indicate that acids are remaining in the body because the kidneys are not flushing them out properly. Ideally, your first‑morning pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5, with occasional higher readings. This range suggests that your metabolic pH is slightly alkaline and that acids from normal metabolism are being properly excreted. If your morning urine is below 6.5, it may be time to begin alkalizing your diet.
What to consider before alkalizing your diet
Be consistent. Eating alkaline foods for a week or two and then returning to old habits will not correct chronic acidosis. These changes require long‑term commitment.
Be patient. It took years of improper nutrition to develop chronic acidosis and related health issues. It may take months—or longer—to restore balance. The good news is that many people feel improvements within days of eating a more alkalizing diet.
Remember that acidosis is often a sign of mineral deficiency. Vitamins and minerals work together for optimal cell health. While the body can manufacture some vitamins, minerals must come from diet or supplements. Minerals originate from the earth and cannot be created by plants or humans. Plants absorb minerals from the soil, and we obtain them directly from plants or indirectly from animals.
Taking action to get balanced
The first step in balancing your pH is to keep a notebook. Track your morning and daily pH readings, along with everything you eat and drink. Use one page per day, noting the date, times, and how you feel. Food should energize you—not leave you tired.
The second step is to take several pH readings throughout the day. Depending on what you eat, these readings may vary. Slightly alkaline readings are ideal. Record all results. The best times to test are two hours after a meal or 30 minutes before a meal.
The third step is to eat at least 70% alkaline foods and 30% acidic foods. Some people prefer an 80/20 ratio. You will quickly learn what works best for your body. Acidic foods include red meats, chicken, fish, poultry, whole grains, soda, and caffeinated beverages. Alkaline foods include most vegetables, fruits, nuts, lentils, chickpeas, and sweet potatoes.
The fourth step is to eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables. Cooking, baking, and frying destroy many minerals and nutrients. Whenever possible, eat produce raw. Although fruits taste acidic, their residue after digestion is alkalizing. Oranges, lemons, and limes are among the most alkalizing foods you can consume.
Optimize Your Health: The pH Connection
Part 1 of 3: The pH Connection (1 of 3)
Part 2 of 3: Currently reading
Part 3 of 3: pH Tips to Live By (3 of 3)
Until next time, stay healthy!
Yours in health,
Dr. Gregg Gittins
