ALKALIZING FOODS AND EXERCISE

Alkalizing foods are an integral part of the body's post-exercise repair process. If not dealt with, lactic acid build-up from physical exertion,general stress, and acid-forming foods will lead to muscular stiffness, fatigue and joint pain. If an acidic system becomes chronic, it will show signs of aging and will eventually cause the blood and cellular tissue to degenerate more rapidly than if the system were not acidic.

Athletes in peak training are the most affected by excessively high acid levels (acidosis): Vigorous exercise causes lactic acid build up, and stress of any kind causes even further build-up. Already physically stressed, many athletes must also deal with various forms of performance anxiety. An increased metabolism, which further lowers the body's pH, is yet another concern athletes face. Combine this with the heftier food requirements of most athletes and the emphasis on protein to aid muscle recovery and you have all the elements of and acid-ravaged body. Following a good plant based diet will help combat this.