The Alkaline Way: A Holistic Approach to Immune System Health

The Alkaline Way ^[1] is system for managing autoimmune conditions that was designed by highly acclaimed medical researcher Dr Russell Jaffe, winner of the prestigious 2002 International Research Scientist of the Year award, and many other honors. Dr. Jaffe’s approach to managing immune system problems  is tailored to individual patients and has three components:  Lab testing, An alkaline diet, and alkaline water.

• Lifestyle management

Lab testing is performed to evaluate a patient’s degree of autoimmune dysfunction, and for the presence of certain antigens – substances in the body that trigger the production of antibodies – which indicate sensitivities to food and chemicals.

The diet used in The Alkaline Way is “health-promoting, nutrient- and fiber-rich” according to Dr Jaffe.  The diet he prescribes consists primarily of whole foods, and includes “targeted supplementation” that is based on individual need. The best sources of alkaline foods for the diet are said to be locally vine-ripened, organic, or biodynamic – energetically alive – foods. Along with healthy food, mineral-rich alkaline water is a crucial part of The Alkaline Way. Dr, Jaffe states that diet alone may not provide sufficient minerals to buffer metabolic acids.

Stress is a major cause of oxidative damage in the body and a contributor to immune system problems. The Alkaline Way includes “an emphasis on exercise and mindfulness.”  Dr Jaffe says his system recognizes the link between mind and body. His approach to stress reduction is motivational designed to promote long-term, sustainable practices that restore health and resilience.

Autoimmunity: an Epidemic of Epidemics

Over half of all American adults, and a rapidly expanding population of American youth experience some form of immune dysfunction.  According to Dr. Jaffe, the trend represents a shift from: “from an immune system that is resilient, self-regulating, and self-restoring into an imbalanced, aggressive, and self-attacking mode known as autoimmunity.”

Three Factors Contribute to Autoimmune Dysfunction

Metabolic acidosis, oxidative stress-makers, and repair deficit inflammation are the precursors of autoimmune and immune dysfunction according to Dr. Jaffe. He states that these three factors:”functionally and metabolically overlap with debilitating chronic conditions that affect or are affected by the thyroid, adrenals, or reproductive glands”.

Restoring Alkaline Balance

Much of the success of Dr. Jaffe’s system depends on the individual. Self testing is performed by the patients on their own urine using pH Hydrion test strips first thing in the morning. Patients are advised to adjust their intake of alkaline foods and alkaline water to maintain a pH balance of 6.5 to 7.5. Dr Jaffe states that “A neutral or slightly acidic pH” shows that your overall cellular pH is “appropriately alkaline” and that acids that accumulate in the body from normal metabolism have been excreted.

How to Maintain an Alkaline Balance

Hydrion pH testing kits are readily available online. The best foods to eat will be locally grown, raw and vine ripened, as these foods have the most life force in them. The best way to get alkaline  water is with a home water ionizer.

Ionized alkaline water contains negatively charged ions which act as powerful antioxidants. The negatively charged water attracts positively charged contaminants which detoxify the body at a cellular level and allows toxins to be flushed out of the body. The negatively charged ions in alkaline water produce high pH levels and –ORP potential.

Call us at 877-959-7977 to Learn more about an alkaline diet and lifestyle with our free informative booklet.

Has the FDA evaluated the Alkaline Way?

No. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  The preceding information and/or products are for educational purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or treat illness. Please consult your doctor before making any changes or before starting ANY exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using this information or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.

Reference:

Jaffe, Russell. “The Alkaline Way: Integrative Management of Autoimmune Conditions.” Health Studies Collegium. Health Studies Collegium. Web. 8 Jul 2013. <http://www.healthstudiescollegium.org/docf/JaffeAlkWayTLDP_1110Edit.pdf>.