Alan Dibbs - Alkaline Foods For the Alkaline Diet: Feel the pH Miracle of a Healthy pH Diet

Alkaline Foods For The Alkaline Diet

Feel the pH Miracle of a Healthy pH Diet

Alan Dibbs

Table of Contents

The alkaline diet (also known as the acid alkaline diet, alkaline acid diet, alkaline ash diet, and acid ash diet) is a way of eating based on the principle that there are foods that have an alkalizing effect on the body, and foods that have an acidifying effect on the body. When the nutrients in the food we ingest reach the kidneys, they produce either bicarbonate (alkaline) or ammonium (acidic). It is thought that when we eat a diet consisting of mostly acid-forming foods, we may suffer from a variety of health conditions, including bone loss, as a result of the body leaching minerals from the bones to balance out the pH.

Acidifying foods may also be to blame for inflammation, which leads to cancer, heart disease, and other ailments. Lowering the bodys pH by eating more alkalizing foods has been found to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones and urinary tract infections.

Though there isnt enough hard evidence to prove the alkaline diets effect on humans, this way of eating has been practiced by alternative-medicine practitioners for centuries. According to them, following an alkaline diet:

• Increases a persons energy levels

• Reduces anxiety and irritability

• Prevents frequent colds and flu

• Prevents excessive mucus production

• Prevents recurring headaches and migraines

• Reduces the risks of certain types of cancer

• Improves cardiovascular health

• Promotes bone health

Arugula

Arugula is best known as a delicious component of salads and sandwiches; it is less recognized as an excellent source of calcium. Vegetarians who want to make sure that they are getting the necessary amounts of calcium should consume more of this incredibly nutritious vegetable. Arugula is also rich in Vitamin A, iron, and antioxidants.

Spinach

Like other superfoods, spinach is chockfull of vitamins, fiber, and phytochemicals. It is packed with folate, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and iron. Spinach eaten raw or cooked helps improve digestion, aids in diabetes management, prevents asthma, lowers blood pressure, promotes bowel regularity, and improves bone health.

Zucchini

Its a good thing that zucchini is available in most supermarkets, because this versatile vegetable is a great addition to an alkaline diet. Though there are many ways of preparing it, the best way to get the most out of zucchinis health benefits is to steam it and eat it on its own. Zucchini is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and iron. It helps prevent cancer and lowers cholesterol levels.

Artichoke

Those who are unfamiliar with artichokes could start using it as a topping for salads or turn it into a dip. Artichokes are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folates. They aid digestion, detoxify the liver, increase bile flow, reduce cholesterol levels, and give the immune system a boost.

Watercress

Heres further proof that leafy greens are good for you. Watercress is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and calcium. It is very alkalizing and its carotenoids have been shown to protect against cancer. Studies have also found that eating watercress before exercise helps prevent DNA damage.

Swiss Chard

Those who want to make their bodies more alkaline should eat more of this wonderful vegetable. Though it is not as popular as other leafy greens, Swiss chard is just as delicious and alkalizing. It is delicious mixed in a salad with other greens, sauted in olive oil, and added to baked beans. Swiss chard is packed with Vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Asparagus

Stock up on this delightful vegetable, because not only is it one of the most alkalizing foods in this list, it is also rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and iron. Asparagus is known for its ability to neutralize free radicals, its anti-aging properties, and its high levels of asparagine a natural diuretic.

Squash

The different varieties of squash all taste and look different, but they do have one thing in common: they are all alkalizing. Squash is a versatile food that can be served as the main course, as a side dish, as an appetizer, and even as dessert. This delectable vegetable is loaded with Vitamin A and Vitamin C, is low in calories, and promotes eye, bone, colon, and prostate health.

Radish

Whether you eat white, red, or black radishes, youll be getting this amazing vegetables alkalizing effect. Radishes are rich in both Vitamin C and calcium. They detoxify the body, lower blood pressure, regulate blood glucose levels, and help prevent heart disease.

Rhubarb

No, its not a vegetable. Despite its appearance, rhubarb is a fruit one of the few that are inherently alkaline. Those who dont find rhubarb appetizing should try using it to make their favorite pies, crumbles, and tarts. Rhubarb is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and calcium.

Lemon

Though the mere thought of lemons can make anyones mouth pucker, lemons may just be the most alkalizing of all foods. Though they are sour and are thus thought to be acid forming, lemons actually produce an alkaline response inside the body. Lemons offer a good dose of Vitamin C and provide relief from coughs, colds, and flu. They also energize the liver and cleanse the digestive system.

Avocado

Avocados have recently gained popularity as a superfood, and rightly so. Not only are avocados alkalizing; they are also packed with nutrients. Avocados are rich in potassium, fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. They are also an excellent source of healthy fat.

Grapefruit

Heres another sour and acidic-tasting fruit that produces an alkaline response once consumed. And its also a superfood. This breakfast favorite boosts metabolism, thus aiding weight loss, and offers a big dose of Vitamin C.

Pomegranate

Those who enjoy the delicious tartness of pomegranate juice dont have to worry about it being acid forming. Pomegranates naturally help balance the bodys pH level. They also contain Vitamin C, iron, and potassium in large doses. When drinking pomegranate juice, steer clear of the ones with added sugar as those dont have much alkalinity.

Tofu

Tofu has been a staple meat replacement for vegetarians and vegans for a while now. It is a rich source of plant proteins that are inherently alkaline, and it also contains isoflavones, which have an antioxidant effect. Studies have shown that a diet rich in soy-based products may help prevent cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer.

Tempeh

Tempeh, which originated in Indonesia, is made through a controlled culturing-and-fermentation process that turns soybeans into a solid slab, much like a burger patty. This wonderfully nutritious protein source is rich in manganese, copper, and fiber, and is chockfull of phytonutrients, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids.

Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein comes from milk and is separated from milks other component, casein, during the process of making cheese. Whey protein powder is an alkalizing protein that can be taken as a supplement, or added to smoothies, oatmeal, breakfast cereals, and soups. Whey protein aids fat loss, has anti-cancer properties, lowers cholesterol, prevents asthma, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Parsley

This leafy herb isnt just for garnish. When added to omelets, stews, soups, marinades, casseroles, and dips, parsley imparts a refreshing and delightful flavor. Apart from being alkalizing, parsley is also loaded with Vitamin C and Vitamin A.