Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick take
A social media post on January 24 alleges that COVID-19 is resistant to organisms with a pH higher than 5.5. And consumption of high pH alkaline food protects you from covid. We fact checked it and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A Facebook post by the name of John Boutakis, which according to the facebook is a founder and business owner of onpassive, made a claim that consuming high pH food helps prevent the virus.
Fact Check
What is high alkaline food?
High alkaline foods are food with a pH level above 7, which is considered alkaline or basic. These foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and certain grains. They help balance the body’s pH levels and promote health by reducing acidity in the body as per people claiming. Examples of high alkaline foods include leafy greens, cucumbers, broccoli, almonds, and tofu. However, scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of consuming high alkaline foods is limited, and their impact on overall health remains a subject of debate among researchers and health professionals.
Is Covid-19 immune to organisms with higher pH?
No. COVID-19 isn’t ‘immune’ to organisms with higher pH. While there’s some research suggesting that maintaining a balanced pH level might have benefits for overall health, including potential effects on viral infections, it’s not a guaranteed defence against COVID-19. A 1991 study clarifies that the study focused on a different coronavirus known as mouse hepatitis virus type 4 (MHV4), not the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19.
Can high alkaline food help you against Covid 19 virus?
No. A 2021 study says maintaining a balanced pH might offer health benefits, it’s not a guaranteed defence against COVID-19. Vaccination, mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and following public health guidelines remain the most effective ways to reduce transmission. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged in December 2019, leading to a global pandemic with millions infected and thousands of deaths. Alkaline foods, such as lemons, may leave an alkaline residue after digestion, supporting the immune system. While no specific food or supplement can prevent COVID-19, a nutrient-rich diet can aid immune health. Vitamin D supplements and foods high in vitamin D may also support the immune system during quarantine.
Does consuming alkaline food or water alters body pH?
Consuming alkaline foods or water may temporarily influence the pH of urine, but they typically do not have a significant or lasting effect on the overall pH balance. The body tightly regulates its pH levels to maintain optimal function, and any changes occur by the diet are usually short-lived and balanced by the body’s buffering systems. Therefore, while consuming alkaline foods or water may affect certain bodily fluids’ pH levels, they generally do not alter the blood or body’s overall pH.
According to Oncologist Dr. Manish Singhal, even a slight change in the pH of our blood can lead to a person being admitted to the ICU.
The topic of alkaline food and alkaline water has been extensively discussed, often with claims suggesting that alkaline pH can cure cancer. However, upon fact-checking, it’s evident that these claims lack solid scientific research backing. While some studies suggest potential health benefits of alkaline diets, such as improved bone health, the idea that alkaline foods alone can cure cancer is misleading and not supported by robust scientific evidence.
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