Alkaline And Acid-forming Foods

The metabolic process of digestion determines the alkalinity or acidity of the foods you eat. For example, acidic lemons join the list of alkaline-forming foods because they produce an alkaline residue in your blood when digested. Alkaline-forming foods contain higher levels of the minerals sodium, potassium or calcium. The alkaline residue produced acts as a buffer to neutralize acid wastes in your blood produced by acidic-forming foods. By preventing over-acidification, alkaline-forming foods protect cellular function. Acidic-forming foods contain more sulfur, phosphate or chloride and leave behind an acid ash residue. Several studies review the health benefits derived from maintaining a dietary alkaline/acid balance.

Research

A study reported in "Nutrition Journal" established a connection between a diet that increases urine alkalization and promotion of uric acid removal for the prevention of hyperuricemia, or gout.

The development of diet-induced metabolic acidosis, or excess acidity, contributes to loss of muscle mass in the senior citizen population. A 2008 study reported in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" links alkaline-forming foods to increases in lean tissue mass in healthy senior citizens. This was supported by increases in urinary potassium levels of participants involved in the three-year study. Potassium excretion is associated with consumption of alkaline foods.

The "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" reported on a 2008 study to determine the effects of a plant-based dietary supplement and its influence on bone health. The highly acidic Western diet has a potentially negative effect in relation to osteoporosis and other health problems. Changes noted in urinary pH levels of study participants indicate plant-based supplements might offer additional support for neutralizing the adverse effects of an acidic diet.

Monitoring Alkaline/Acid Balance

The kidneys, lungs, intestines and liver regulate cellular and blood pH to maintain an internal alkaline balance. Writing in "Today's Dietitian," nutritionist Jan Howard says food does not have a significant impact on this function. A test that measures urine pH levels provides a good indication of the alkaline/acid balance of internal fluids based on the alkaline- and acid-producing foods in your diet. In his article for ShapeFit.com, Dr. Richard DiCenso indicates a diet containing 80 percent alkaline-forming foods and 20 percent acidic-forming foods provides a healthy balance for most people. Purchase urine pH test strips online or check with your local pharmacy.

Alkaline-Forming Foods

Lemons and watermelon top the list of alkalizing foods, followed by most vegetables and fruits, including greens, broccoli, cauliflower and tomatoes, citrus fruits, berries, grapes, raisins and raspberries; protein foods, such as almonds, chestnuts, tofu and whey protein powder; the sweetener Stevia; and spices and seasonings, including chili pepper, cinnamon, ginger and sea salt.

Acid-Forming Foods

According to The WolfClinic.com, acid-forming protein foods include beef, lamb, pork, turkey and fish. Acidic fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes and grains include cranberries, corn, lentils, winter squash, barley, wheat, wheat flour, white flour, pasta, black beans, kidney beans, lentils and soy milk. Dairy products such as butter, cheese and ice cream also leave acid residue in blood. Among nuts, butter, fats and oils appearing on acidifying food lists, you will find cashews, peanut butter, peanuts, walnuts, canola oil, olive oil, coffee, soft drinks, vinegar, mustard and pepper.