The Alkaline Craze

The Alkaline Craze

The Alkaline Craze? Sip with Sass, But Don’t Skip the Science

Ah, the word “alkaline” – it sounds so clean, so green, so serene. From Instagram influencers pouring baking soda into everything short of their shampoo, to late-night YouTube gurus brewing molasses-soursop smoothies in their mystical kitchens, the alkaline drink trend has bubbled into popular culture like kombucha on a hot day.

But here’s the fizz: while sipping on cucumber-infused chlorophyll or a honey-lemon-turmeric elixir might feel like you’re cheating death one glass at a time, the truth is far less dramatic (and considerably more scientific).

Your Body = The Ultimate Balancer

Let’s get one thing straight: your body is a pro at maintaining its pH balance. Your blood stays tightly regulated around 7.35–7.45, no matter how many lemons you squeeze into your water. Most alkaline drinks simply influence urine pH, not your systemic balance. So, while that celery-lime spritzer might be tasty, it’s not rewriting your biological destiny.

From Healing Hype to Hydration Hiccups

Many alkaline drinks are packed with healthy ingredients – think ginger, greens, and citrus – but others? Not so much. Baking soda, a common star in alkaline potions, can cause more than a burp if overused: sodium overload, bloating, and even alkalosis are on the guest list.

And let’s talk soursop. This exotic leaf has made waves for its supposed cancer-fighting properties, but medical experts urge caution. High doses have shown neurotoxic effects in lab studies. Translation: don’t go guzzling gallons.

What’s Smart to Sip

Hydration heroes like lemon water, herbal teas, and veggie-infused drinks are generally safe and beneficial in moderation. They support overall wellness and make water less boring. But when your recipe calls for more chemistry than a school lab, pause.

Doctor Knows Best (And Won’t Judge Your Mint Leaves)

Before turning your kitchen into an apothecary, talk to a healthcare provider. Especially if you have conditions like high blood pressure, kidney issues, or are on medication. That licorice root latte might sound whimsical, but it can mess with your meds.

Sip Savvy, Not Silly

Enjoy your alkaline creations with flair, but don’t treat them like elixirs of immortality. Health is a balance, not a magic trick – and sometimes, the most radical act of wellness is drinking plain ol’ water and calling your doctor.

Now, go forth and infuse responsibly!

Recommended recipe

To prepare a molasses, baking soda, and soursop leaves drink in the safest and most balanced way, here’s a recommended recipe with careful portioning and preparation notes:

🌿 Molasses-Soursop Alkaline Tonic

Ingredients (1 serving):

• 1 tsp blackstrap molasses (unsulphured)
• 1/8 tsp baking soda (aluminum-free, food-grade)
• 3–5 soursop leaves, dried or fresh
• 2 cups (500 ml) water
• Optional: A slice of fresh ginger or a few mint leaves for added flavor

🧪 Preparation:

1. Prepare the soursop infusion:
   • Bring 2 cups of water to a gentle simmering.
   • Add soursop leaves (and ginger if using).
   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
   • Strain and let it cool to warm (not hot).
2. Mix the tonic:
   • Once the tea is warm (around body temperature), stir in the molasses.
   • Add the baking soda slowly while stirring (to minimize fizzing and neutralize acidity).
   • Mix until fully dissolved.
3. Serve:
   • Sip slowly, preferably on an empty stomach or mid-morning.
   • Drink no more than once daily, and take breaks (e.g., 5 days on, 2 days off).

⚠️ Caution & Tips

• Do not exceed 1/8 tsp baking soda per serving, especially if on a sodium-restricted diet.
• Avoid long-term daily use of soursop leaves without consulting a healthcare provider due to potential neurotoxicity in large quantities.
• Monitor for digestive changes or dizziness, and discontinue if side effects occur.
• Always consult with a doctor if you have conditions like high blood pressure, kidney issues, or are on medication.

The boiling of the soursop leaves is not ok

The method of preparing soursop leaves can significantly impact both their effectiveness and safety.

🔥 To Boil or Not to Boil?

✅ Gentle Simmering (Best Practice):

• Why: Preserves more of the beneficial compounds (like acetogenins and antioxidants) while minimizing the risk of over-extraction of potentially harmful substances.
• How: Simmer at low heat for 10–15 minutes, not a rolling boil.

⚠️ Boiling (High Heat for Long Periods):

• Risk: High temperatures can break down delicate phytochemicals, and may also increase the release of annonacin, a neurotoxic compound found in soursop.
• Effect: This may increase health risks, especially with long-term or high-dose consumption.

🌿 Recommended Method

1. Bring 2 cups of water to just below boiling.
2. Add 3–5 soursop leaves.
3. Reduce to a gentle simmer for 10–15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for another 5–10 minutes.
5. Strain and allow to cool to warm temperature before adding molasses and baking soda.

This preparation keeps the infusion gentle and maximizes benefits while minimizing potential risks.

Global Herbalist GPT

Global Herbalist GPT is a botanical expert on herbs, their stories, and properties.

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Medical disclaimer: If you suspect that you have a health problem, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment will depend on the type of affection and may involve antibiotics, antivirals, or other medications. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove an abscess or relieve pressure on organs. This blog is informative.

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