The benefits of an alkaline diet range from weight loss to improved body functions to the prevention and cure of such chronic diseases as arthritis. These benefits can be traced to alkaline foods balancing the body's blood pH level so that nutrients are used to repair and grow new cells and fat is burned for energy. According to the website Energize for Life, an alkaline food diet should consist of 70 to 80 percent alkaline foods and a maximum of 20 to 30 percent acid-forming foods.
The Influence of pH
Blood levels of pH -- or "potential of Hydrogen" -- are regulated by body systems to maintain a range of 7.35 to 7.45, or a little more alkaline than pure water. A pH in this range is necessary for cells to function properly. The ideal pH level is 7.3. According to Theodore A. Baroody, M.A., D.C., N.D., Ph.D. and author of the book "Alkalize or Die," over-acidity is quite common today and can evolve into a serious threat to all body systems. "It gives rise to an internal environment conducive to disease, as opposed to a pH-balanced environment which allows normal body function," Baroody writes. "A healthy body maintains adequate alkaline reserves to meet emergency demands."
Alkaline versus Acid
Such acid-forming foods as eggs, meats, grains, coffee and cola drinks dominate the American diet, piling on excess pounds and making it more difficult to shed them. The body stores leftover acid in fat cells, and may even grow more fat cells to store more acid. If excess acidity diminishes the alkaline influences of such minerals as calcium, magnesium and potassium, the body's defenses against disease are minimized. An alkaline diet prevents this from occurring.
Foods
Alkaline foods are high in calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. They include fresh in-season fruits, vegetables, herbs and salads. Acid-forming foods should be combined with alkaline foods, such as chicken with broccoli or tofu with dark green vegetables. This produces a healthy acid/alkaline balance naturally. Lemon juice and water is another excellent source of alkaline. Among vegetables high in alkaline are asparagus, cabbage, lettuce, onion, cauliflower, peas, carrots, spinach and green beans. Among the fruits are lemon, lime, avocado, tomato, grapefruit and rhubarb. Millet is preferred over wheat; olive oil over vegetable oil.
The Alkaline Defense
An alkaline diet can assist the body in defending itself against such health issues as premature aging; inadequate absorption of nutrients; osteoporosis, skin and hair problems, weight gain, colds, flu and headaches. An alkaline diet is recommended to those who are constantly tired and experience low energy levels, muscle pain, hives and joint pains.
The Detox Imperative
According to Don Colbert, MD, author of "The Seven Pillars to Health," the body thrives in an alkaline environment because its detoxification capabilities are enhanced. "Your tissues get rid of impurities more efficiently," Dr. Colbert says. "When cancer patients come into my office to begin nutritional treatments, their bodies are almost always very acidic and toxic."
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