The human body has a pH balance that can be monitored with testing strips. There is a scale that goes from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is acidic and anything above 7 is alkaline. Having high levels of acid in your body can lead to complications such as heartburn, joint inflammation and a compromised immune system. By eating certain foods, you can raise or lower your body's alkalinity.
Fruits
Fruits are high in fiber, vitamins and natural sugar, and a number of them are alkaline. Avocados, lemons, limes, rhubarb, grapefruit, apples, apricots, avocados, cherries, pineapples, watermelon and tomatoes are examples of these. Cranberries, prunes, plums, blueberries and currants are acidic.
Vegetables
Like fruits, vegetables are high in water content, fiber and they also have a number of vitamins and minerals. Examples of vegetables that are alkaline include sprouts, spinach, all forms of lettuce, kale, collards, celery, cucumbers, cauliflower, broccoli, wheat grass and radishes. Vegetables that are acidic include olives, winter squash and corn.
Grains
Whole grains are high in fiber and complex carbs, but they are also high in acid. Examples of these include oats, barley, amaranth, wheat bran, oat bran, rye spelt and any product that derives from grains such as pasta, bread, cereal and crackers. Millet is the only grain that is alkaline.
Protein Sources
Animal sources of protein are highly acidic. Examples of these are beef, pork, chicken, turkey, venison, bison, duck, lamb and veal. Processed meats are also acidic: hot dogs, bacon, ham, sausage and corned beef. All forms of fish, shellfish and seafood are acidic. Clams, oysters, tuna, haddock, salmon, sardines, mussels and lobster are all examples of these. Because they are often alkaline-fermented, tofu and tempeh are two forms of alkaline protein.
Oils
Oils are high in mono and polyunsaturated fat but they are also acidic. Examples of these include olive oil, canola oil, sesame oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil and corn oil.
Dairy Products
Dairy products are high in calcium and protein, but they are also acidic. Examples of these include milk, ice cream, cheese, butter and cottage cheese.
Seeds and Nuts
Nuts are high in unsaturated fats, protein and fiber, and a number of them are acidic. Cashews, pecans, walnuts and peanuts are examples of these. Any butter that is made out of these is also acidic. Almonds and chestnuts are nuts that are alkaline.
Beans
Beans are high in fiber, protein and iron, and they are also acidic. Examples include pinto beans, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, black beans, soy beans and peas. Soy milk, which comes from soy beans, is also acidic.
Beverages
Alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, hard liquor and spirits are all acidic. Soft drinks, cocoa and caffeinated beverages are also acidic. Alkaline beverages include fresh fruit and vegetable juices, green juices, mineral water and probiotic cultures.
Member Comments