Bones should have pH levels between from 7.0 to 7.4. Anything lower than 7.0, the mineralisation of bone significantly decline, aggravating osteoclast activities which results in oesteoporosis. Osteoclasts are bone cells that absorb bone tissue during growth and healing. Osteoblast and osteoclast activities and mineralisation of bones through calcium and phosphate are at their highest when the pH is at 7.4. When alkaline minerals from the bone is removed due to it being acid, building and strengthening bones is harder. When this happens, complications such as osteoporosis arise.
Hydroxyapatite, which is an essential ingredient of normal bones and teeth, is drawn from bone tissue, and into the blood, where minerals are disassociated, when metabolic acidosis happens. This provides buffers in the serum, thus, creating an alkalising effect. In an acidic state, the regulation of proteins that help in the reabsorption of calcium, is altered. The result of hydroxyapatite transportation from the bone tissue, called hypercalaemic state, will reduce the amount of calcium reabsorption in the renal tubules to protect the body against its harmful effects; and this includes depressed nervous system, poor reflexes, and weakened muscles. This may even subsequently lead to increased calcium excretion and incidence of calcium kidney stones.
Clinical studies have shown that an increase in alkalising minerals including potassium citrate, and potassium bicarbonate, may restore the balance between osteoblast and osteoclast activity, helping in the neutralisation of excess acid. This then increases blood pH, serum potassium and bicarbonate concentrations. Moreover, these minerals produce a balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body, essential in the maintenance of skeletal health.
In summary, acidity in the body causes a pull of calcium, magnesium and other minerals from the bones into the system. This can be seen often in a hair mineral analysis test.
Optimal mineral status in your body is essential for all biochemical processes of the immune system, organ function and absolutely process in your cells. When this declines, disease progresses. Obviously the earlier we can prevent this from occurring, the better and a reversal can happen with nutritional supplementation at the correct therapeutic dosages.
Have you read Part 1 of the pH blog posts? Catch up here.
Would you like to know more? Have a question? Get in touch!
More on the body’s pH:
pH And Health (Part 3 of 4): Renal System
pH And Health (Part 4 of 4): Alkaline and Acid Foods Supplement Essentials