Eat and Be Young But we’d like to add this simple thought: What
you eat can make you old. Last month we explained how age equals
inflammation and why inflammation could play a role in many
degenerative processes, including diabetes, arthritis, heart
disease, high blood pressure and cancer. (See the April 17 issue
of the Shepherd for details.) Reducing inflammation may be able
to slow down the aging process. And, even more important, it’s
something you can do every day, very simply, just by eating the
right foods. Here’s how it works: The internal pH (level of
acid) of the body is a critical factor in producing
inflammation. The body is designed to function properly when the
internal environment is neutral, with the exception of the
stomach’s acidity. When your body becomes too acidic, it tries
to come into balance by retaining water and taking calcium and
other minerals from your bones. Over time, these processes may
lead to inflammation and osteoporosis. Your cells, tissues and
organs may prematurely break d