The Mind-Body Connection: pH Balance and Mental Health

The Mind-Body Connection: pH Balance and Mental Health

It is well-known in the health industry that the body’s acid/alkaline homeostasis, or maintaining a good pH balance in tissues and organs, is a vital component of good health. So many of the body’s processes produce acid. The lungs and kidneys usually compensate for small pH imbalances, but when these organs aren’t functioning optimally, excess acid can accumulate in the body and blood. The result of this type of imbalance ranges from the development of kidney stones to bone disease and mental health issues. Read on to discover why prioritizing your pH levels can help you boost your mental health, mood, and well-being.

A Groundbreaking Study

Researchers from Fujita Health University in Japan conducted a laboratory study, finding decreased pH levels in the brains of five mouse models of mental disorders, including models of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The scientists also found elevated levels of lactate in the mouse models, noticing a significant negative correlation between brain pH and lactate levels. They postulated that an increase in lactate may be the cause of decreased pH levels, since lactate is a strong acid. The study raised numerous additional questions, including the nature of the mechanisms through which lactate increases and pH decreases. Scientists also expressed the need for further research to discover whether there is a functional decrease in brain pH in psychiatric disorders and whether this decrease is a cause or result of the onset of different disorders.

Dietary Acids, Depression, and Anxiety

A 2023 study by Hossein Bahari and colleagues found that women with a higher dietary acid load had significantly higher chances of having more severe depression. There was also a significant link between dietary acid load and anxiety in the population at large, regardless of sex. Previous studies had shown that increasing acid load by consuming acid-rich foods was linked to metabolic issues such as diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disorders. Studies have shown that there is a strong link between heavy meat intake and anxiety and depression. By contrast, plant-based diets can serve as a buffer against anxiety and depression. Research also indicates that consuming processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can all negatively impact mental well-being.

Acidity in the Environment

Although acidity is often discussed in the contents of diet, there are many other circumstances that can lead to lower pH levels. One is the environment. For instance, the acidification of our oceans leads to a reduction in the quantity and quality of fish and seafood obtained from our seas and oceans. Ocean acidification can contribute to respiratory issues, disrupt nature-based recreational activities, and lead to a loss of potential resources for medicines. Drops in pH can occur in HVAC systems as well. When air-conditioners emit foul-smelling odors, chances are, they are recycling air from return vents. This causes CO2 levels to rise and stops fresh air from entering the home. Simple solutions such as cleaning the AC, using a CO2 scrubber, and running fresh air lines from outside a home to the air conditioner's skimmer (the part of the AC that removes impurities from water) can help improve air quality.

Embracing a Low-Acidity Lifestyle

To boost your pH levels and potentially keep anxiety and depression at bay, there are numerous steps you can take. Firstly, consume a healthy, Mediterranean-style diet comprising fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and other lean proteins, and healthy fats such as olive and avocado oils. When choosing produce, prioritise low-acidic foods such as melons, bananas, apples, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds. Keep your appliances in good working condition for optimal indoor air quality. Aim to work out daily and manage stress proactively, via techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. Make an effort to eat smaller, more frequent meals, chew your food well, and avoid late-night snacking so your digestive system has a chance to rest.

Studies have shown a link between low pH levels and psychiatric disorders, as well as mental conditions like anxiety and depression. The cause of lower pH levels can in some part be attributed to dietary consumption, though environments may also play a role in health and well-being. While the link between low pH and psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia is still shrouded in mystery, studies have firmly established that a healthy diet is linked to better mental health. 

Written for Santos Organics by Nina Sumner
Image by Freepik