Feature Image by Laura Johnston
If you’re looking to optimize your health, you should try incorporating more alkaline foods into your diet. But what do alkaline foods even do for your body? We’re breaking down everything you need to know.
What does alkaline mean?
According to Healthline, the foods we eat have an effect on the pH level of our blood. pH refers to how acidic or alkaline it is on a scale of 0-14, with 0 being highly acidic and 14 being very alkaline. The theory is that the more alkaline your blood is, the better your internal environment and overall health.
Why does it matter?
It’s important to choose alkaline foods (e.g. kale) and avoid acidic foods (e.g. red meat), as diseases thrive in an acidic environment. If you cut out acid-forming foods and choose only alkaline ones, you can alter your pH level and keep illness at bay. Plus, there is a whole slew of other health benefits that come with alkalizing your body, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced memory and cognition, and reduced muscle wasting.
What are some alkaline foods?
Some of the best alkaline foods you can choose include:
- Green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, arugula, celery, and parsley)
- Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, and oranges)
- Root vegetables (sweet potato, beets, and carrots)
- Nuts (almonds, cashews, and chestnuts)
- Spices and seasoning (chili pepper, cinnamon, ginger)
- Avocado
- Bananas
As always, consult your doctor or nutritionist with any health-related questions or concerns.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
