There’s mounting research that links chronic acidity in the body to a number of serious diseases including cancer. The truth is, the body needs a pH balance in order to maintain proper function. Therefore an increased consumption of acid-forming foods makes the body work toward restoring the blood’s pH balance by using its reserves of alkaline-rich minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. In case your diet is low in alkaline-forming foods, the body pulls these minerals from your bones, teeth and organs. The side effects of this are fatigue, compromised immune system, and susceptibility to illnesses.
Taken that many popular foods are acidic in nature – these include most grains, beans, meats, dairy products, fish, fast foods and processed foods, increasing your intake of alkaline foods is vital for balanced pH levels. In fact, a healthy, well-balanced diet should include 20-40% acid-forming foods, and 60-80% alkaline-forming foods.
Below you can find a list of the top 10 alkalizing foods.
1. Avocados
With a pH of 8.0, avocadoes are a real gift of nature. This fruit alkalizes the body while neutralizing the effects acidic foods produce in the stomach. Best of all, avocadoes are so versatile when it comes to cooking – you can spread it on toast or a sandwich, add it to a salad, or to your desserts.
2. Ripe Bananas
As opposed to unripe bananas, which can lead to constipation, stomach acidity and poor nutrient absorption, ripe bananas are highly alkalizing and supply the body with vitamins and minerals.
3. Almonds
These nuts are amazing for restoring the pH balance in the body. So is almond milk. These foods are also beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels, improving brain function and promoting healthy digestion.
4. Asparagus
With a pH of 8.5, asparagus is one of the best alkaline-forming foods. This super food is also abundant in fiber, water, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
5. Watermelon
Watermelon is another powerful alkaline-forming food with a pH of 9.0. Plus, it’s rich in vitamins, minerals and water, all of which contribute to keeping the electrolytes in the body balanced. Last, but not least, this food packs a high fiber content and is great for toxin elimination from the body.
6. Cayenne Pepper
One of the numerous health benefits this anti-bacterial spice provides is its alkalizing effect. With a pH of 8.5, it improves circulation and brain function, reduces blood pressure and eliminates toxins.
7. Papaya
Abundant in nutrients, including fiber, water, vitamins and minerals, papayas can improve your health on many different levels. They are highly alkalizing and extremely beneficial for treating indigestion and acid reflux.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in fiber and nutrients. Aside from keeping you satiated for long and boosting your health multifold, it’s also a highly alkalizing food.
9. Lemons
Despite their acidic taste, lemons become an alkalizing food once ingested. To benefit from their alkalizing effect, simply add a few slices of lemon or some lemon juice to your water and drink throughout the day.
10. Garlic
Garlic does not only give your meals a distinct taste, but it also neutralizes acidic foods like meat, fish, cheese and eggs. Include some garlic in your meals to keep your body alkaline.
Via davidwolfe.com
