Alkalising Diet

It’s all in the pH… There’s been a lot of talk lately about the Alkalising diet….celebrities from Kirsten Dunst to Anthony Robbins are touting it as a way to reduce weight and inflammatory conditions. Others such as Jess Ainscough are using it in their battle with cancer.

Our bodies regulate Blood pH to slightly alkaline (within 7.35 to 7.45) and pH differs within the regions of our bodies.The acid-alkaline scale ranges from 1 to 14 and anything under 7 is an acidic pH. This balance is maintained by systems such as the stomach acid, gall bladder, liver and kidneys. In a perfect system these levels should be remain steady however if our digestive secretions are struggling then the food choices we make may put a strain on the system. In this case eating too many acid-forming foods (that includes some grains, animal flesh, alcohol and dairy foods) may cause us to become over acidic which can lead to weight gain, inflammation and indigestion.

This doesn’t mean we should eliminate all red meats, cereals, dairy and other acid forming foods from our diets.. As these foods can provide us with many necessary nutrients. Just think about a little Alkalising is all I’m saying. Are you getting your greens?

A good ball park is the 80/20 rule…80 per cent alkaline and 20 per cent acidic. Below is a list of Acid/ Alkaline foods…

DIET TIPS TO REDUCE ACIDITY AND ALKALISE THE BODY…

  • Reduce acid forming foods such as tea, coffee, alcohol, soft drinks, dairy, wheat, sugar, preserved, processed, refined and tinned foods
  • Increase alkalising foods such as plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, water, lemon juice, vegetable juices, green barley powder, grains, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables
  • Eat more foods which contain naturally occuring digestive enzymes such as pineapple, papaya, beetroots, green leafy vegetables or lemon juice
  • Make a warm lemon and Manuka honey drink as these will not only improve digestion but Manuka honey contains anti-bacterial properties to improve mouth hygiene
  • Drink herbal teas to help increase water consumption and to also improve digestion and reduce acid. Some tasty teas are Peppermint, Chamomile, Ginger, Burdock, Dandelion and Lemon

LIFESTYLE TIPS TO IMPROVE PH LEVELS IN THE BODY AND ALKALISE

  • Clear excessive wastes from the kidneys by ensuring that you are properly hydrated by drinking at least 2 litres of water/ day
  • Support liver health by avoiding alcohol, smoking, preservatives, additives, processed and refined foods and consider a detoxification regime

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