Foods That Increase Dietary Acid Load

Foods that increase dietary acid load do not have anything to do with their acidic taste, which is characteristic of lemons or oranges. The acid-forming properties of food are related to the way they are broken down when they are digested. High-protein foods such as animal meat products tend to be high in amino acids that are metabolized to form sulfuric acid. 

Acid-forming foods can put a heavy load on the kidneys, which are tasked with the job of neutralizing acids to maintain proper pH balance in the body. Normally, the body is able to neutralize acids from the metabolism of food, but chronic consumption of high acid diets can result in health problems. When the kidney regulatory function is not able to counteract the acidity, the body “borrows” from other Buffering sources, such as the bones, which release calcium and phosphorus, or the muscles, which release glutamine. These compensatory mechanisms may result in osteoporosis and muscle loss.

Modifying the Diet to Prevent Diabetes

Unlike animal products, most foods that come from plants (fruits and vegetables) do not contain high levels of amino acids that contain sulfur. They are therefore, generally alkaline-formingfoods, which help neutralize acid-forming foods.

The mechanisms linking a high acid diet and diabetes are not clear but research suggests that acid/base imbalances play a role in cardiometabolic abnormalities. Increased acidity in the body may lead to increased insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, which increase the risk for diabetes. Without a change in diet, chronic metabolic acidosis can lead to complications. One study found that a high dietary acid load in diabetic individuals with renal complications can lead to end-stage renal disease. The authors believe that kidney failure can be prevented by shifting to an alkaline diet, which consists of eating more fruits and vegetables.

Read More: Dietary Treatment Of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - Effectiveness Of Nuts

The American Diabetes Association shares some tips for smart eating to cut down the risk for diabetes:

• Start your meals with soup and salad containing a variety of vegetables. This helps fill you up before eating the main course, which may have a higher calorie and fat content.

• Eat fresh carrots, celery or grapes for snacks instead of chips.

• When ordering side dishes in a restaurat, ask for fruits or vegetables instead of fries. Order some soup or salad to fill up before eating a shared entree. Skip dessert.

• When shopping at the supermarket, stock up on fruits and vegetables and avoid buying chips, cookies, and soda.

• Although it is always better to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, having frozen or canned versions is better than having none available when you want them. Just be sure to drain the liquid before cooking or eating to reduce the amount of salt or sugar in the canned goods.