Foods are typically classified as either acidic or alkaline in nature based on their value on the pH scale. On the pH scale zero is highly acidic, seven is neutral and 14 is highly alkaline. Your body needs to maintain a pH blood level of seven to function at an optimal level. According to Robert Young, author of the book "The PH Miracle," high acid levels can lead to heart disease, obesity, allergies, cancer, fatigue and premature aging. A diet low in acid can help keep your pH levels balanced and your body healthy.
Fruits and Vegetables
A healthy diet consisting of a variety of fruits and vegetables can help you lower the amount of acid in your body. Many fruits and vegetables such as papayas, zucchinis, peas, cabbage, avocados, artichokes, bananas, raisins, prunes, strawberries, apples and pears contain low levels of acid. Tomatoes, grapefruits and oranges are acidic in nature, but convert to alkaline once they enter your body. Avoid cranberries because they are highly acidic in nature.
Nuts and Seeds
Snacking on nuts and seeds can help you lower your acid levels. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, Brazil nuts, chestnuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, flaxseeds and sunflower seeds have a low acid content. Avoid pecans, peanuts, pistachios, cashews and walnuts because they contain high levels of acid.
Grains
Decrease you acidic food consumption by adding organic grains into your daily diet. Grains such as buckwheat, millet, kamut and spelt contain low levels of acid. Avoid white rice, rye, brown rice and wheat because they are highly acidic.
Protein Foods
Consuming limited amounts of protein can lower the acid level in your body. Protein-based foods such as cow's milk, fresh water fish, aged cheese, soybeans, tofu, pinto beans, white beans, navy beans, red beans and lima beans are low in acid content. Avoid bacon, beef, organ meats, liver, ham, eggs, buttermilk, cream, chicken and lamb because they are acidic.
References
- "Food Science"; Sumati R. Mudambi; 2006
- "The PH Miracle"; Robert O. Young; 2002
- "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease"; Michael Zimmermann; 2001
- "Every Woman's Guide to Nutrition"; Judith E. Brown; 1990
- "Eat for Life: The Food and Nutrition Board's Guide to Reducing Your Risk of Chronic Disease"; Catherine E. Woteki and Paul R. Thomas; 1992
- "Regulation of Acid-Base Status in Animals and Plants"; S. Egginton, E. W. Taylor and J. A. Raven; 1999
Member Comments