When foods are consumed, they are broken down and they cause the body to become acidic or alkaline. To check your acidity, you can use pH testing strips and compare your results to the guide that comes with the kit. The ideal place you want to be is around seven on the scale. If you are below that, your body is acidic and you can be subjected to a compromised immunity, stomach acid, low energy levels and poor digestion. To help balance out your pH, you can consume foods that are high in alkalinity and lower in acid.
Fruits
Fruits are high in natural sugar, carbohydrates, vitamins, fiber and water content. They are also low in acidity and high in alkalinity. Raisins, dried figs, lemons, limes, dates, apples, pears, grapes and berries are some of the most alkaline. Avocados are also less acidic and more alkaline, but unlike the other fruits, they are high in fat. This is the healthy monounsaturated kind. According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of fat can lower your risk of heart disease by reducing the total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in your blood.
Vegetables
Vegetables have a similar nutritional profile as fruits in the fact that they are high in fiber, water content and vitamins. With a few exceptions, they are less acidic and more alkaline. Beets, carrots, green beans, peas, peppers, zucchini, celery, cucumbers and broccoli are all examples. All forms of greens are alkaline as well including baby spinach, romaine lettuce, arugula, sprouts and parsley.
Oriental Vegetables
Oriental vegetables are high in trace minerals and they often derive from the sea. They are also high in alkalinity. Reishi, maitake and shitake are all mushrooms and wakame, kombu, nori and daikon are all other vegetables that are high in alkalinity.
Proteins
Protein forms are mainly all higher in acid than alkalinity, but there are a few exceptions. Fermented tempeh, miso, chestnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, soy beans and millet are all examples.
Spices
Spices are low in calories and they can add flavor to bland food. Tamari, sea salt, curry, cinnamon, ginger and chili pepper are all spices that are more alkaline than acidic.
Beverages
Beverages that are high in sugar and caffeine are highly acidic. However, there are a number of beverages that are the complete opposite. Lemon water, mineral water, herbal teas, veggie juices, green tea and ginger tea are all examples of these. Apple cider vinegar is a liquid substance that is also alkaline.
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