Just as managing the pH level of a pool is important to its optimum functioning, so is maintaining proper pH in the human body.

Having balanced minerals in the body can be a crucial component of reducing or eliminating pain. Without proper mineral balance, pH is impacted. Without proper pH, a body will not be able to correctly absorb all the minerals necessary to sustain quality of life.

Each organ in the body, as well as blood, urine and saliva, has a specific pH. The pH of saliva indicates the liver’s ability to make enzymes and break down food. When the saliva is too acidic, digestion is moving too fast. If saliva is too alkaline, digestion is moving too slowly. Similarly, when urine is too acidic, the elimination processes of the small and large intestines are moving too fast; if it’s too alkaline, they are moving too slowly.

Evaluating urine and saliva pH levels can reveal hidden factors contributing to pain. The most relevant situation occurs when the pH of the urine goes in one direction (too acidic or alkaline) and the pH of the saliva goes in the opposite direction.

The further apart the numbers are, the more the body is losing or discharging energy, and pain is often prevalent. The elimination and digestive systems are competing for resources, and crucial minerals are not being absorbed. In addition to experiencing pain, the person may also be suffering from vitamin B-12 deficiencies, anemia, high blood pressure and other health challenges.

Managing the body’s pH numbers can be accomplished with supplementation, and calcium can play a significant role. There are many types of calcium—carbonate, lactate, gluconate, hydroxide and citrate—and they “direct” the body in different ways. Knowing which type of calcium is needed, and exactly how much, is critical for keeping the body in balance. Lemon water, vitamin D and digestive enzymes may also be helpful.

A health practitioner can analyze the body’s mineral levels and determine the necessary supplements and strengths to help restore balance.

Resource: Jennifer Bitting, holistic health practitioner, Thrive! Health & Wellness in Williamstown and Medford. For more information, call 856-881-4103 or email [email protected]. Also visit facebook.com/thrivehw or thrivehw.com.