pH and its role in the body
According to nutritionists, a balanced diet, especially focused on alkaline foods, can help the body maintain an ideal body pH, thereby improving the ability to absorb nutrients and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Nutritionist Ushakiran Sisodia from Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital explains that acidity and alkalinity are fundamental factors that directly affect many biological processes in the body. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, of which 7 is neutral. The lower value will show acidity, the higher the alkalinity. Typical examples are stomach acid with low pH and baking soda with high pH.
pH balance plays a particularly important role in maintaining the functioning of digestive enzymes, nutrient absorption and detoxification function. According to Dr. Sisodia, if the body is often in a state of acidity, bone density can be affected, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Summer is the ideal time to prioritize alkaline foods
In the summer, the body's need for water and minerals increases, while the digestive system also becomes more sensitive. According to Dr. Leena Saju, Director of Clinical Nutrition at KIMSHEALTH (India), acidic foods such as sour fruits, pickles, vinegar sauce, processed meats, refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol can cause dehydration, increase endogenous heat and affect the digestive process.
In contrast, an alkaline diet with the main ingredients of vegetables, fresh fruits, nuts and beans brings many outstanding benefits.
Sharing the same view, Dr Edwina Raj, Head of Clinical Nutrition at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, said: alkaline foods are not only easy to digest but also provide a rich amount of water and important micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals, especially supporting the immune system to function effectively in hot weather.
Suggestions for foods to prioritize in the summer
According to experts, alkaline foods that should be included in the summer menu include: watermelon, cucumber, green vegetables, cantaloupe, carrots, beans, nuts and seeds. Not only do these foods help hydrate, they also help stabilize electrolytes because they are rich in potassium, magnesium and sodium, thereby limiting dehydration, fatigue and heatstroke.
