Top 10 Alkaline Foods

Top 10 Alkaline Foods
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The human body is an intricate system which maintains a strict pH balance. When you consume food, it is changed into an alkaline or an acid ash after digestion and metabolism. For this reason, consuming a large amount of acid-forming foods can cause the body to become overly acidic, resulting in a number of health complications. To ensure an internal pH balance, it is important to consume healthy, alkaline rich foods.

Lemons

While most people think that lemons are an acidic fruit, they actually produce an alkaline ash after digestion. Lemons have a pH level of 9.0, making them highly basic. Lemons are rich in vitamins, minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants which provide the body with strength, endurance and immune health. Lemon can be added to water to create a refreshing beverage.

Watermelon

Watermelon is another alkalinizing food with a pH of 9.0. It is also a source of fiber, beta-carotene, lycopene and vitamin C. Watermelon has a water content of 92 percent of its weight, making it a diuretic. You may find watermelon especially thirst-quenching and refreshing during a colon cleanse or detoxification.

Spinach

Spinach is a dark, leafy green vegetable which is packed full of fiber, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants. Spinach is known for its rich vitamin K and folate content. Spinach has a pH of 9.0 and is therefore alkalinizing. Spinach improves your vision and digestive processes. You can eat it raw as part of a salad or cooked with a meal.

Asparagus

With a pH level of 8.5, asparagus is beneficial in lowering the acidity in your body. It contains an important amino acid, asparagines, which is vital to the proper functioning of the nervous system. This vegetable is best eaten cooked.

Mango and Papaya

Mango and papaya are vitamin-rich fruits with a relative pH of 8.5. Both mango and papaya are sweet, tropical fruits which can be eaten fresh, frozen or dried. Packed with water, these fruits contain a diuretic effect which aids in cleansing your colon and kidneys.

Capsicum

Capsicum is the name given to a variety of tropical peppers, including cayenne and chili. This family of peppers has a pH of 8.5, making them highly alkaline. Capsicum peppers are high in enzymes essential to the endocrine system. They are known for their anti-bacterial properties. They are also rich in vitamin A, and therefore are beneficial in fighting off free radicals that cause stress and illness.

Grapes and Pineapple

At a pH of 8.5, these fruits are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, B and C. Grapes help regulate your blood circulation and lower blood pressure as well as the risk of cardiovascular disease. Pineapple is a source of fiber, antioxidants and L-carnitine, which helps you maintain a healthy body weight.

Apples

Apples have a pH level of 8.0 and are sources of fiber. Apples contain a variety of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals which help protect the body and keep the immune system intact. Apples also contain enzymes which maintain the body's natural hormonal balance. Apples are very versatile fruits which can be eaten raw, or included in cooking and baking.

Alfalfa Sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts, often called sprouts, are sprouting seeds of beans which are nutrient-rich and versatile. Alfalfa sprouts contain saponins, components which help to lower bad cholesterol and fat in the body, ultimately protecting you from cardiovascular disease. Sprouts also contain antioxidants which prevent the destruction of DNA, protecting your body from the effects of aging. You can add alfalfa sprouts to any salad or sandwich for added flavor.

Garlic

Garlic is alkalinizing food with a pH of 8.0. Garlic chemically reacts to acidic foods with a pH value of 5.0, elevating their acidity and helping to maintain a pH balance in the body. Garlic provides your body with many benefits such as lowering blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular and immune health, cleansing the liver and fighting off illness.

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Dec 31, 2010

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