Alkalosis
Description
Alkalosis is the opposite of acidosis: a condition of being too alkaline.
Alkalosis is rarer than acidosis.
Alkalinity and acidity are at opposite ends of the continuum, with water at neutral (7.0 pH).
Below a pH of 7.0 is the acid range. Above 7.0 is alkaline. The human body is naturally slightly acidic, although certain fluids will vary.
Causes
Excessive vomiting can remove acid from the body, causing alkalosis. Usually, this condition is brought about by excessive use of sodium bicarbonate for gastric problems.
Signs & Symptoms
Acidosis is usually determined by laboratory tests, for the blood or urine. High risk groups, like diabetics, may like to keep some home urinalysis kits in order to monitor themselves.
This can be as simple as a piece of litmus paper, or more sophisticated test kits designed specifically for ketoacidosis.
Such tests are fairly reliable when used properly. Within an hour of a meal may yield a false reading, especially if the meal was particularly acidic, or alkaline. Supplements, like niacin and vitamin C will also affect the results.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function: Intestinal Health
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General Supplements
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| Adult | |
| B complex | 100 mg b.i.d. |
| Betaine HCl* | |
| Bioflavonoids* | |
| Pyridoxine | 50 mg t.i.d. |
| Selenium | 200 mcg |
| Sulfur | 500 mg |
| Vitamin C | 3,000 - 6,000 |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note: All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
If the body is too acidic (below 6.3 pH) choose alkaline-forming foods.
If the body is too alkaline (above 6.8 pH) choose acid-forming foods.
Acid-forming foods include:
Flour-based products;
Vegetables e,g, asparagus, brussels sprouts, saurkraut;
Beverages (cocoa, milk, tea)
Sugar and sweetened foods;
Protein: poultry, fish, eggs.
Seeds and nuts form low-levels of acid.
Note: citrus fruits contain citric acid which has an alkalinizing effect.
Alkaline-forming foods include:
Fresh fruits and vegetables;
Honey, maple syrup and molasses;
Homeopathic Remedy
| Description | Remedy |
| Indigestion from over-eating | Nux vomica |
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Alfalfa
Note : The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Discussion:
Alfalfa is considered beneficial to the digestive tract.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
Related Health Conditions
AbstractsReferences
Balch, J.F. & Balch, P.A.: Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Second Edition. Avery, New York. 1996.
Chioléro R et al., Metabolic and respiratory effects of sodium lactate during short i.v. nutrition in critically ill patients. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr, 1996 Jul-Aug, 20:4, 257-63.
Classen-HG et al: Different effects of three high-dose oral calcium salts on acid-base metabolism, plasma electrolytes and urine parameters of rats. Methods-Find-Exp-Clin-Pharmacol. 1995 Sep; 17(7): 437-42.
Committee on Nutrition, American Academy of Pediatrics: Commentary on breast-feeding and infant formulas, including proposed standards for formula. Pediatrics 57:278-285, 1976.
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Zurkirchen-MA et al: [Reversible neurological complications in chronic alcohol abuse with hypophosphatemia]. Schweiz-Med-Wochenschr. 1994 Oct 15; 124(41): 1807-12
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