Potential for hydrogen, or pH, is terminology applied in chemistry to signify whether a liquid, solution or compound is neutral, alkaline or acidic. The pH scale spans from zero to 14, with 14 being most alkaline. The natural pH of your body is marginally alkaline; a reading between 7.35 and 7.45 is ideal. You can determine your pH levels by dipping pH strips into a sample of urine or saliva.
Diet
According to proponents of alkaline diets, the foods you eat have the potential to influence your pH levels. After being digested, some foods produce acid by-products in the body. These foods are identified as acid-forming. Other foods are considered alkaline-forming because of their alkaline by-products. If you have been eating a standard American diet, then you will have consumed many acid-forming foods, such as meat, fried products and soda drinks. Acidosis is a condition that occurs when body fluids are too acidic. Symptoms include headaches, insomnia, weight gain and water retention. In his book "Eating for Beauty," David Wolfe advised eating a diet based on 80 percent of alkaline-forming foods to create a more alkaline environment in the body.
Vegetables and Fruits
The majority of vegetables and fruits are thought to be alkaline-forming, and can be eaten in large quantities on a high-alkaline diet. Kiwis, apples and pears are examples of alkaline-forming fruits that can typically be found year-around. Dehydrated fruits such as figs and dried apricots are highly alkaline-forming. However, blueberries and plums are rare examples of fruits that are acid-forming. The vast majority of vegetables are alkaline-forming, although pickled vegetables are acid-forming. In the book "The Acid-Alkaline Food Guide," author Dr. Susan Brown Ph.D. advises that if you fill around 70 percent of your plate with green leafy vegetables, you can help combat the effects of any acid-forming food, such as meat, eaten at the same meal.
Dairy
Dairy foods are in the main acidifying. However, yogurt and fresh unsalted butter are only slightly acid-forming. Dairy foods that should be avoided or eaten in moderation on a high-alkaline diet are processed cheeses, cottage cheese and ice-cream. More alkalizing options are soy cheese, egg whites, buttermilk and soured dairy products.
Meats and Fish
Meat, poultry and fish are rich protein foods, but they are also acidifying. However, the body needs protein to build cells and remain in optimal health. If you consume one of these protein sources, you can reduce its acidifying effects by combining it with a large portion of alkaline-forming vegetables or a salad. Alternative more-alkalizing protein foods are hazelnuts, almonds and tofu.
Staples
Foods made with refined white flour are acid-forming. Wholegrain or rye breads and brown rice are preferred choices. Pinto and navy beans, like other rich sources of protein, are acidifying. Opt for quinoa or lentils, which are classed as low-alkaline foods.
References
- Dr. Jeff Health Center: Alkaline Diet
- Better Bones: Alkaline Balance Diet Plan
- "The pH Miracle"; Robert Young, Ph.D.; 2002
- "The Acid-Alkaline Food Guide: A Quick Reference to Foods & Their Effect on pH Levels"; Susan E. Brown; 2006
- "Eating for Beauty"; David Wolfe; 2002
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