Ionogenic alkaline diets have gained popularity over the last two decades. The ionogenic alkaline diet focuses on eating certain foods that lead to more alkaline --- the opposite of acidic --- blood chemistry by way of a chemical process that can carry numerous health benefits. Alkaline blood chemistry can slow muscle tissue and bone tissue loss, and it may encourage balance and health of the delicate endocrine system, which regulates the hormones of the body, says Dr. John Berardi, a nutritional biochemist and adjunct faculty member at the University of Texas.
Ionogenic Alkaline Produce
Doctors Thomas Remer and Frederic Manz discovered in their 1995 research the impact of various foods on the body's pH. They concluded that produce --- fruits and vegetables --- provided the most alkaline response of any food. Squash; root vegetables such as parsnips, radishes, horseradish and carrots; broccoli; lettuce; spinach; beet greens; mustard greens; dandelion greens; chard; seaweed; collard greens; onions; mushrooms; bell peppers; hot peppers; artichokes; tomatoes; cabbage; sprouts; and celery are vegetables that can be consumed while on an ionogenic alkaline diet. Likewise, fruits such as pears, peaches, plums, kiwis, pomegranates, grapes, melons, pineapple, guava, nectarines, apricots, berries, avocado, cherries, citrus fruits, mango, papaya, starfruit, rhubarb and cucumbers can be eaten until you're satisfied. One fruit that does not fit the bill, however, is bananas, which are only occasionally allowed in the alkaline diet but only infrequently, according to Thomas Remer, Ph.D., et al. in an article in "Journal of the American Dietetic Association."
Ionogenic Alkaline Drinks
Beverages are very important to success on an ionogenic alkaline diet, as some may produce very large increases in blood acidity, according to Berardi. Though he suggests that water and green tea are most preferable, alkaline dieters can enjoy light beer, vegetable and fruit juices, red and white wines, and mineral water to enhance the alkalinity of the body. Ionogenic alkaline dieters should seek to avoid dairy-based beverages, stout beers and soft drinks of all types for best results.
Ionogenic Alkaline Meats
Meats are permissible while trying to maintain alkalinity. All meats produce an acidic response, however, fish, lean chicken, and game meats produce only a small acidic response, according to Remer and Manz. Emphasize leaner cuts of meat whenever possible and remember that the fewer legs on the animal the better. Likewise, be sure to combine your meats with fruits and vegetables to help balance the acidic response.
Alkaline Grains
Grains, as a whole, tend to produce an acidic response and the more processed the greater the acidic response, according to Berardi. Grains, like meat, can be consumed but should be balanced with plenty of alkaline-producing foods. Seek to get the bulk of your grains from whole sources such as quinoa, wild rice and rolled oats to maximize your alkalinity.
Alkaline Supplementation
Supplements can be used to help increase alkalinity while on an ionogenic alkaline diet. Berardi suggests using the amino acid l-glutamine to supplement your diet to maintain your alkalinity. Consume between 1 to 3 teaspoons of l-glutamine with meals, particularly those high in acid forming-foods such as fatty meats, grains and sugary foods. In place of l-glutamine, baking soda can be consumed in doses of 1 teaspoon per 3 cups of water, says Berardi.
Warning
Ionogenic alkaline diets are not for everyone, especially those on certain types of drugs or with conditions that influence the kidneys, bones or liver. Check with your physician prior to beginning any dietary program to ensure that it will not have a negative impact on your health.
References
- "John Berardi"; Covering Nutritional Bases; John Berardi, PhD; July 13, 2003
- "Journal of the American Dietetic Association"; Potential renal acid load of foods and its influence on urine pH; Thomas Remer, PhD and Frederic Manz, PhD; July 1995
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