Our body’s pH levels determine how healthy we are. The pH scale is from 0-14. To maintain a healthy body, blood pH level should be slightly alkaline – 7.30 to 7.40; anything that is below 7 is acidic. Foods you consume have a larger role in altering the pH levels of your blood, saliva, and urine. It can either lower or raise the pH level. The lower or acidic pH level is associated with greater risk for diseases of the heart, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, and even cancer. Whereas higher or alkaline pH levels have favorable effects on your body, it boosts immunity, prevents the development of chronic diet-related diseases, and increases energy. Here are top 10 alkaline-forming foods to boost your alkalinity.
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Green Leafy Vegetables
Spinach, cucumber, broccoli, celery, and bell pepper etc are one of the best sources of alkaline foods which contain phytonutrients such as flavonoids, phenols, indoles and vitamin A, C, and K. It cleanses toxins from body naturally, balances body pH level, and boosts immune system. The dietary fiber present in green leafy vegetables helps normalize bowel movements and also help in losing weight.
Watermelon
Watermelon is 92% water and tops the chart for alkaline foods with a pH of 9.0. Loaded with beta-carotene, lycophene, and vitamin C, watermelon keeps your body well-hydrated and balances pH level.
Lemons
Lemons are rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, and it is one of the best alkaline foods available. It has a pH level of 9.0. Consuming whole fresh lemons can prevent onset of kidney diseases, cold and flu, hypertension, and food-induced heartburns. Eating lemons enhances liver functions too.
Olive Oil
Moderately high in alkali, olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and healthy monounsaturated fats. Including olive oil in your diet chart helps prevent strokes, osteoporosis, depression, and certain types of cancers including breast cancer.
Bananas
Bananas are delicious and contain fiber and antioxidants. It has moderately high pH value of 8.0. Rich in magnesium and potassium, it helps keep blood pressure at normal range. Bananas are heart healthy food and enhances metabolism.
Avocados
Like bananas avocados pH value is 8.0 and is one of the best alkaline foods available. Eating avocados helps control high blood pressure and normalize cholesterol levels. It is relatively a high-fiber diet.
Berries
Berries have a long list of health benefits. Its powerful antioxidants help boost memory power and protect cells from damage. It helps regulate blood pressure. It is also a good source of fiber and helps digestion. Its pH value is 8.0.
Broccoli
Broccoli is an alkaline food which is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, copper, calcium, and zinc. Consuming broccoli is known to reduce the risk for cancers, especially colon cancer. It is a natural detoxifier and also improves digestion.
Grapes
Grapes pH value is 8.5 and is a moderately high alkaline food. It contains antioxidants and vitamin A, B, and C. Eating grapes helps control blood pressure and prevents the onset of heart diseases. It boosts immunity and reduces the risk for certain types of cancer, namely colon and prostate cancer.
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Spinach
Spinach is considered as a “super health food”. It is one of the best alkaline foods which are low in fat and cholesterol. It contains zinc, niacin, protein, fiber, vitamin A, C, E, K, vitamin B6, and folate in sufficient quantities. Its health benefits are numerous. Eating spinach improves eyesight, maintains healthy blood pressure, increases muscle power, and balances blood-sugar level.
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