When controlling the health of the body, the transformation generated in food after digestion must be taken into account. In this sense, the alkaline diet strengthens our immune system, reducing the risk of certain diseases such as cancer. Now, what are alkaline foods? What are its benefits?
What Are Alkaline Foods?
The foods we usually eat cause an alkaline or acidic reaction in our body that appears in the pH of the blood. It is measured between 0 and 14, with 0 being the most acidic and 14 the most alkaline. This means that 7 is associated with a neutral value under which we must stay healthy.
Alkaline foods are a source of vitamins and minerals, being very beneficial to the body. Most vegetables and green leafy foods also provide oxygen, phytonutrients, and chlorophyll, which helps to alkaline the body. Reducing acidity is essential for obtaining well-being and an extra energy contribution. We will also strengthen the immune system and reduce the chances of contracting certain diseases such as cancer.
Following an alkaline diet involves the consumption of plant foods, which will facilitate weight loss. In addition, our bone structure will improve, as will our digestive and intestinal health by compensating for the natural acidity of the body.
List of Alkaline Foods:
Aclicosis is very present in our lifestyle and diet. Excess refined flour, dairy products, sugar, soft drinks, medicines, processed foods, and the shortage of consumption of vegetables is what generate acidification. Likewise, our daily habits are related to difficulty falling asleep, stress, sedentarism, nervousness, etc.
When this happens, the system tends to run out, leading to the appearance of various diseases. To prevent this from happening, it is convenient to know what alkaline foods are and to know how to recognize them to stop the flow of acids and lead a healthy lifestyle. Here are some of the most prominent you’ll easily find in the supermarket:
Spinach
The spinach is rich in chlorine and a powerful alkaline. It is one of the best alkaline foods you will find, being very high in iron, calcium, potassium, fiber, and vitamins. It can be cooked raw or cooked, being ideal for making salads or simple starters.
Col KALE
Col KALE helps to reduce bad cholesterol, in addition to great help against cancer because of its content in glucosinolates. It contains antioxidants and detoxifying capacity, being more effective when steamed. Also noteworthy is its easy digestion.
Cucumber
Cucumber is another of the best alkaline foods due to its high concentration of water (more than any other vegetable), being very moisturizing. It is also very antioxidant, being effective in fighting free radicals. It is rich in iron, copper, selenium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, and vitamins K and C. In addition, it can be easily incorporated into our diet in the form of smoothies, soups, salads, or juices.
Broccoli
It has been shown that broccoli is an ally to fight cancer. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it detoxifies the skin and body and facilitates work on the digestive and cardiovascular systems. It is a very alkaline food that can be eaten raw or steamed and is recommended for use in smoothies, salads, juices, or dressed with other vegetables.
Avocado
Avocado is one of the most alkaline foods you’ll find. It indeed has a high level of fat, but we talk about good fats, so you won’t gain weight. It’s a source of omega 3, being a great ally to curb bad cholesterol levels and speed up metabolism, which means spending more calories.
Celery
The celery has a high alkalinity and its high water content makes it perfect for making soup or similar. It’s a source of vitamin C, thus boosting your immune system and slowing the onset of various types of cancer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping in the prevention of asthma, osteoporosis, or arthritis.
Pepper
Pepper is rich in antioxidants and has vitamins A, C and E. It is easily included in all types of dishes such as salads, stews, or garnishes, contributing to the prevention of cancer, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, muscle degeneration, and inflammation.