Fluids in the body can be acidic, alkaline or neutral, with a pH of 7 considered neutral. A pH less than 7 is acidic, while a higher pH is alkaline. The pH of urine normally ranges from 4.5 to 8, RnCeus.com reports. In some disorders, such as uric acid, calcium oxalate or cystine stone formation, it's beneficial to keep the urine more alkaline than acidic, Dr. Farhat Abbas of Aga Khan University explains. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium increase the alkalinity of urine. Certain foods can make the urine more alkaline.
Fruits
Most fruits turn urine more alkaline even though the fruits themselves are acidic before being eaten, according to the Connective Tissue Disorder website. All fruits with the exception of cranberries, prunes and plums make urine more alkaline, with bananas, figs, orange juice and watermelon being especially alkaline. Many fruits contain potassium, a mineral that helps turn urine alkaline.
Vegetables
Most vegetables, like fruits, have an alkaline effect on urine, with the exception of corn and lentils, RD411 states. Vegetables that produce the highest degree of alkalinity in urine include greens like beet, dandelion, mustard and turnip greens. Beets, Swiss chard, kale, potatoes and spinach increase urine alkalinity more than other vegetables. Vegetables, like fruits, contain large amounts of potassium as well magnesium.
Dairy
Dairy products, such as milk and some milk products including cream and buttermilk, can also increase the alkalinity or urine. Dairy products contribute to both acidity and alkalinity of urine, RD411 states.
Other Foods
Nuts, such as almonds, chestnuts and coconuts, can increase urine alkalinity, RD411 reports. Chocolate, mineral water and molasses also increase the alkalinity of urine.
Spices
Certain spices can also increase alkalinity of urine, including chili pepper, cinnamon, curry, ginger, miso, mustard and sea salt, according to the Wolfe Clinic.
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