DavidWolfe.comLife is all about balance. Balancing work and play, family and friends, saving and splurging, and let’s not forget about balancing healthy food with the occasional treat. Balance is also key when it comes to the body’s pH levels.
The Alkaline Diet
Just like measuring the pH level in your pool to make sure things are running smoothly, the body needs to maintain a balanced pH level to stay healthy. When we eat acid-forming foods, the body tries to balance the blood’s pH level by releasing alkaline-rich minerals into the bloodstream, such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. If we aren’t eating enough alkaline-forming foods, the body has to pull these minerals from our bones, teeth and organs, which can cause fatigue and compromise the immune system, making us more vulnerable to illness.
Acid-forming foods include most grains, beans, meats, dairy products, fish, fast foods and processed foods. A balanced diet when it comes to pH is considered to be 20-40% acid-forming foods, and 60-80% alkaline-forming foods. So what are the best alkaline-forming foods for the body? Check out the list below! You’ll want to start incorporating these foods into your diet to keep essential minerals flowing and your immune system in tip-top shape.
1. Avocados
Not only are avocados delicious, they have a pH of 8.0, which alkalizes the body and helps to neutralize acidic foods in the stomach. Spread some avocado on toast or a sandwich, add it to a salad, or make some homemade guacamole!
2. Ripe Bananas
Eating a banana that isn’t quite ripe can lead to constipation, acidity in the stomach and poor nutrient absorption. Eating a ripe banana with a few little brown spots provides the body with vitamins, minerals and alkalinity.
3. Almonds
Almonds and almond milk are great sources of alkalinity. They help to lower cholesterol levels, improve brain function, aid in healthy digestion and leave the body perfectly balanced.
4. Asparagus
Asparagus is considered to be one of the most powerful alkaline-forming foods, with a pH of 8.5. It also provides the body with fiber, water, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
5. Watermelon
Watermelon has a pH of 9.0, and it offers vitamins, minerals and water that keeps electrolytes balanced. This tasty fruit also has a high fiber content that makes it great for eliminating toxins.
6. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has many health benefits, including being a good source of alkalinity to the body. It’s an anti-bacterial spice with a pH of 8.5 that helps to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, eliminate toxins and even boost brain function!
7. Papaya
Papayas are often used to soothe digestion problems. They are highly nutritious, containing fiber, water, vitamins and minerals to improve overall health. They are a great source of alkaline for the body.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli is a highly alkalizing food that offers plenty of fiber and nutrients. As a cruciferous vegetable, it will help keep you full and alkaline.
9. Lemons
Lemons taste acidic, but when digested, they are actually transformed into an alkalizing substance for the body. Add a few slices of lemon or lemon juice to your water throughout the day.
10. Garlic
Adding garlic to your dishes can spice them up and help to neutralize acidic foods such as meat, fish, cheese and eggs. Sprinkling some garlic on your greens will give you plenty of fiber and nutrients while keeping the body alkaline.