Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising on a regular basis is essential to good health. Including more alkaline foods in your diet increase the alkaline content in the blood, which decreases the acid content. A more alkaline blood pH helps protect healthy cells and balance essential mineral levels. Alkaline diets protect bone density and muscle mass, lowering the risk of chronic pain and inflammation and improving immune function. Many high-alkaline foods are a delicious contribution to a healthy body.
What is alkaline?
Alkaline means that something has a pH higher than 7. The human body is naturally slightly alkaline, with a blood pH of around 7.4. The stomach is acidic, which allows it to digest food.
The pH of saliva and urine changes depending on diet, metabolism and other aspects. The stomach is very acidic, with a pH of 3.5 or below, therefore it can break down food. Your urine changes depending on what you eat, which is how the body keeps the level in your blood steady.
My top 7 foods
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a high-alkaline vegetable that helps regulate blood pressure and plays a role in the structure of connective tissue within the body, including the muscles. Cucumbers are also a mild diuretic and can ease bloating or swelling. Their antioxidant qualities make them great for removing toxins from the body. Cucumbers are also high in B vitamins.
Watermelon
Seeded watermelon is an excellent alkaline-forming food. This melon has high fiber and water content, which lets it flush acids out of the body. Incorporating seeded watermelon into the diet not only increases fiber intake but also helps balance alkaline content. Watermelon is rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene and contains plenty of arginine, magnesium, and potassium, which helps reduce blood pressure.
Avocado
In addition to balancing pH, this creamy fruit contains antioxidants that do wonders for the skin. Essential antioxidants make avocados a powerful, nutrient-dense food. They are also high in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce cardiovascular disease and balance blood sugar and offer plenty of potassium, which reduces blood pressure.
Spinach
Spinach is easy to find and easier to use. This incredibly alkaline leafy green is high in vitamins K, A, C, as well as iron, potassium, and magnesium. Spinach is also rich in chlorophyll, which can decrease inflammation and increase the quality of red blood cells. Adding spinach to meals will help ensure balance in the body’s mineral content.
Bananas
Bananas act as a natural antacid, producing mucus that coats the lining of the stomach. This versatile fruit is rich in calcium and can help balance blood sugar. Eating a banana before bed may improve sleep because they contain the amino acid tryptophan. They also aid in relaxation thanks to the muscle-relaxing qualities of potassium and magnesium.
Kale
Kale has a wealth of alkalizing benefits including those now-familiar essential antioxidants, which can improve the digestive system and help rid the body of acidity and toxins. Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods and is high in vitamins A and C. It’s also one of the best sources of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting. As such, however, it is not recommended for people taking blood thinners.
Almonds
Almonds are more alkaline than other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, and cashews, according to the proponents of the alkaline diet. Almonds also contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids that can help protect the heart. They are rich in protein, antioxidant vitamin E, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese. Clinical studies show that almond phytonutrients can reduce insulin resistance and systemic inflammation. The nut’s bio compounds also help improve the blood lipid profile. The nut’s high fibre content make them a tasty, nutrient-dense snack option for controlling the appetite and managing weight when consumed in small quantities.
Although there are many more alkalising super foods such as broccoli, bell peppers, root vegetables, citrus fruits and more, my list above are a basic combination even my two year twins have within their daily diets.
Alkaline foods and products may improve overall health, with some of the benefits including:
- Promote weight loss
- Uncompromised mucous membrane
- Improve kidney health
- Eliminate toxins
- Rejuvenate damaged cell tissue
- Increase energy levels
- Blood nourisher
- Stimulate the brain and central nervous system
- Immune support
- Promoting healthy muscles
- Alkaline diet for inflammation reduction
- Support bones
Introducing just a few alkaline foods to your daily meal consumptions, reducing refined sugars and increasing water intake will benefit you tremendously.
Always inform your GP of any new lifestyle changes so that they can support you on your journey.
In Health,
Georgia