We hear about foods that are acidic and foods that are alkaline. But what does it all mean when it comes to our health and eating habits? Lifestyle and Nutrition Consultant Ahlaam Ali explains.

What it means

The Alkaline diet is actually a way of life that we should ideally be adopting on a daily basis. The basic science behind this way of eating is that our blood pH is slightly alkaline and usually ranges between 7.3 to 7.45 and this pH changes throughout the body. This is the balance we should be maintaining on a daily basis for optimal health.

The 80:20 Rule

The 80:20 rule means you need to have a fairly alkaline intake of food around 80 percent of the time and if you are eating some of the more acidic options at 20 percent, then your body will still maintain its healthy pH of slightly alkaline 7.4.

The Culprits

• Red meat
• Processed foods
• Canned foods
• Sugar and sugar derivatives
• Wheat
• Caffeine

A Lifestyle Choice

The way of eating should be a lifestyle choice and not a short term fix because if you follow the 80:20 rule, your body will start rejuvenating itself to make you a healthier, more energetic person and your organs will thank you for it. This way of eating is generally good for those looking to lose weight, get healthy, and lose various ailments like migraines, bloating, lethargy, and other related ailments.

The Benefits of Alkaline Eating

• When you eliminate a lot of the acid causing foods from your daily meal options, you start feeling healthier and more energetic.
• The Alkaline way of eating will completely cleanse your system, whilst adding a big boost of nutrition, vitamins, and clean, easily digestible food.

• Your metabolism will become more active and as a result; your skin, hair, and nails will all benefit.
• With your body being more alkaline, you will be less susceptible to various ailments like cancers, tumors, colon and stomach issues, joint aches, pains, and migraines.

How to do it

Try vegetable juicing. This works to alkalize your bodies in a big way, leading to a cleaner, more rejuvenated body that is well equipped to handle the stresses and strains of modern day living. Other alkalizing foods include:

• Unsweetened milk and yogurt
• Herbal teas
• Most vegetables
• Eggs
• Pure honey
• Whole grains, such as quinoa and millet