Tuesday, November 01, 2011

Medical Journals: High Alkaline Foods - 12 Perfect Foods for Optimal Health

(Reproduced from Alkaline Foods & Alkaline Diet - The Complete Resource: http://www.acidalkalinediet.com/high-alkaline-foods-12-perfect-foods-for-optimal-health)

It only stands to reason that the pH level of our body would have an effect on how our body functions. An imbalance can cause many different health issues, leaving the body vulnerable to disease and premature aging. Maintaining an alkaline pH in the body is one of the best ways to prevent these problems.

It’s important to understand that a food’s ability to create an acidic or alkaline condition in the body doesn’t actually have any connection with the pH of the food itself. It’s the effect that it has on the body after it’s eaten that matters.

A high alkaline foods diet refer to those which leave an alkaline residue within the body. Of course, it’s not necessary to give up all acidic foods, but the more alkaline foods you consume, the better your pH balance will be. Here is a list of 12 of the best foods for maintaining a healthy alkaline level within your body.

1 – Herb Teas, Green Tea, and Lemon Water

When choosing beverages, stick to green tea, herb teas and lemon-infused water. Of course, these beverages will be even more beneficial if you make them with alkaline water. Avoid soft drinks, beer, tea and coffee, as these beverages will have an acidifying effect.

2 – Soy Milk and Soy Cheese

Soy milk and cheese are much better choices than dairy products made from cow’s milk. Goat milk and goat cheese are also good choices.

3 – Olive, Flax Seed and Canola Oil

When choosing oils, olive oil is considered the best for an alkaline diet. However, flax seed oil and canola oil are also good choices, as compared to corn and other vegetable oils.

4 – Wild Rice, Quinoa and Millet

Instead of choosing white flour and commercially produced pastries, stick to grains such as wild rice, quinoa and millet.

5 – Almonds and Chestnuts

Almonds and chestnuts are both good choices for an alkaline diet. However, avoid peanuts, walnuts, cashews and pecans, as they are among the most acidic of the nuts

6 – Raw Spinach and Lettuce

Salads made with leafy greens are always a good diet choice. Eating spinach raw is the best choice, because although it is one of the most alkaline foods in its raw state, it is actually mildly acidic when cooked.

7 – Soybeans, Peas and Green Beans

When choosing beans and legumes, soybeans and green beans are the best choices. Other varieties such as lima, navy, pinto and kidney beans are more acidic.

8 – Sweet Potatoes and Potato Skins

Although white potatoes without the skins are an acidic food, the potato skins themselves are alkaline. Sweet potatoes are also very good choice. Squash and zucchini are also good substitutes for white potatoes, since they are also alkaline.

9 – Asparagus, Broccoli and Onions

Most vegetables are good choices for an alkaline diet, but asparagus, broccoli and onions are especially good choices. Beets and okra are also good high alkaline vegetables.

10 – Lemons, Limes, Orange and Grapefruit

Citrus fruits are a good example of foods that are acidic in their natural state, but which have an alkaline-producing effect within the body.

11 – Watermelon, Mangos and Papaya

Many fruits have an alkaline effect, but watermelon, mangos and papaya are among the best. Grapes, blueberries and apples are also excellent choices. However, cranberries, blackberries and prunes are among the most acidic fruits.

12 – Stevia, Maple Sugar and Raw Sugar

Stevia, maple sugar and raw sugar are among the best choices for sweeteners. Avoid artificial sweeteners such as NutraSweet, Equal, and Sweet ‘N Low, as they are among the most acidic.

A high alkaline diet involves using a list of high alkaline foods. We have an extensive one available for free on this site (N.B. Please go to the before mentioned website at: http://www.acidalkalinediet.com/).