The idea that an overly acidic body leads to a variety of illnesses is not a new concept. In his 1933 publication of A New Health Era, Dr. William Howard Hay argued that all diseases are caused by “self-poisoning,” due to the accumulation of acid in the body.
The presence of too much acid weakens the body and it can become dangerous for your organs and systems. The blood needs to have a 7.4 pH because a change in blood pH of 0.2 could be lethal. Now, the body doesn’t want to drop dead; therefore, it borrows essential minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium from other organs and bones to neutralize the acidity. This is why people may not realize that they have highly acidic bodies for years.
Too much acidity is caused by poor nutrition. Americans typically consume acidifying foods like meats, processed ingredients, dairy products, refined carbs, and oily foods with saturated fats. Habits like drinking caffeine, smoking cigarettes, or consuming alcohol also contribute to acidifying the body.
How Do You Make The Body More Alkaline?
Let’s clear this up: drinking alkaline water and consuming a Standard American Diet is not going to make the body more alkaline. Since the body is 80% alkaline and 20% acidic, it is recommended to balance your diet according to those percentages. The acid/alkaline balance is integral to maintain healthy tissues, cells, and fluids. There are some foods like citrus fruits, all of which are considered acidic. When ingested, however, they supply the body with alkaline minerals. The diet is the most efficient way to balance your pH levels, which is why we are giving you some of the best alkaline foods!
Spinach
From a nutritional standpoint, spinach is one of the most complete foods out there. It is rich in vitamins A, C B2, B9, E, & K, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, and dietary fiber. These minerals help the body to complete its primary functions. Additionally, spinach is rich in chlorophyll, which is incredibly alkaline and beneficial for the blood.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts are number one when it comes to alkaline-forming nuts. Their alkalizing effect on the body is primarily due to the high water content (about 52%). Chestnuts are also rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. You can also consume chestnuts to increase your intake of manganese, copper, magnesium, folate, and vitamins B1, B2, and B6.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are about 95% water, which is where most of the benefits come from. They are also low in calories and high in antioxidants like lignans, which have been associated with inhibiting chronic diseases. Cucumbers can be used in various ways and contain selenium, copper, potassium, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, K, and B-complex.
Lemons
Even though these are acidic outside the body, lemons deliver alkaline minerals when you ingest them. Each lemon has a pH of 9.0, which helps to alkalize the blood during digestion. They are also rich in potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, dietary fiber, and the mighty vitamin C! Remember: lemons are not acidic in the body, even though they have the citric acid taste.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a great source of plant-based protein and contains tons of chlorophyll, which can help with cell production. The dietary fiber in broccoli also aids with the reduction of blood acidity. Broccoli is commonly recommended for cardiovascular health because it boosts the immune system and supports the metabolic process. The potassium in broccoli works to remove excess sodium from the body, which is beneficial for people who are trying to lower their blood pressure.
It is beneficial to start eating a lot of plant-based foods to help alkalize the body. Continually eating acidic foods with minimal fruit & vegetable intake is a surefire way to maintain an acidic body. Focus on legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Other Alkaline Foods Include:
- Celery
- Avocado
- Kale
- Bell Peppers
- Basil
- Lima Beans
- Sunflower Seeds
- Cauliflower
- Ginger
- Lentils
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Garlic
- Tomato
- Sweet Potato
- Zucchini
- Beet Greens
