It's never easy starting a new diet, but you can make it less complicated by focusing on one aspect of health at a time. For instance, foods that are acidic or produce acid within the body are unhealthy and can lead to an acidic blood pH--something that can cause illness like heart disease, diabetes or cancer. To start avoiding acidic foods, you'll need to understand their sources.
Vegetables
Even though the majority of vegetables are alkaline and good for you, a few are actually acidic. Items with high acid content include lentils, corn and olives.
Fruits
Most fruits are alkaline, even citrus fruits, which are often considered acidic. However, citrus fruits become alkaline once they hit your digestive system. A few authentically acidic fruits include blueberries, cranberries and plums.
Grains
Most grains are acidic. Even though they're considered healthy in some respects, especially when it comes to fiber content, grains can contribute to an acidic blood pH if consumed in excess. Examples of acidic grains include rye, flour, kamut, bran, barley, wheat, oats and rice plus products like breads, crackers and pasta.
Meats
Every kind of meat is acidic. Despite their health benefits like protein, meats can cause an imbalance in the blood toward acidity. Meats to approach only in moderation include beef, lamb, poultry and shellfish. The biggest offenders are organ meats.
Beans & Legumes
Legumes, nuts and beans are often quite high in acid. Even though they're full of fiber and protein, these foods can promote an acidic environment in your body, leading to disease later on in life. A few foods to eat in moderation include tahini, lentils, chick peas, cashews, pecans, walnuts, peanuts, red beans, black beans, pinto beans, soy beans and kidney beans.
Additional Acidic Foods
Acidic foods go beyond the basic food groups and encompass many additives and extras as well. For instance, alcohol, coffee and soda are highly acidic and should be avoided all together, if possible. Likewise, artificial sweeteners, can dramatically set the body off balance and create an environment that promotes cancer cell growth.
Member Comments