Do you know what is in the food you are eating? You might be surprised to learn that some foods traditionally considered healthy may actually be harmful to your health. The alkaline and acidic content of food has not traditionally been seen as important, but we are now finding out that the pH rating of the foods you eat has a big effect on your body and overall health.

Why pH matters

The human body, which is made up mostly of water, maintains a delicate balance between acidity and alkaline. This balance is measured on a scale of 0 to 14, and is known as pH. Our pH is important because if the body's pH becomes too acidic, poor health can result. Acidity in the body results in an accumulation of toxic waste and can lead to cancer, high blood pressure, and other diseases.

Preserving your health

A diet that consists of mainly acidic foods leads to acidity and toxic buildup in the body. On the other hand, eating a diet full of alkaline foods helps the body rid itself of toxicity and leads to a balance in the body's pH. This contributes to better overall health. Alkaline foods help the body combat the signs of aging; helps improve vigor and energy, as well as keep the organs functioning properly. An alkaline diet is vital to good health.

Alkaline forming foods

Foods that are alkaline forming include most fruits and vegetables. Alkaline foods are fresh and unprocessed. Examples of alkaline foods include fruits such as bananas, dates, figs, berries, and even citrus fruits. Vegetables include spinach, kale, carrots, beets and chives. Ionized water is also alkaline forming.

In order to rid your body of toxins, it is important to include plenty of these types of food in your diet. Drinking plenty of alkaline water will also help rebalance your pH level. Alkaline forming foods help offset the damage done by acid forming foods.

Acid forming foods

Acid forming foods are very hard on your body. Because of this, it's important to eat and drink as few of them as possible. Acid forming foods are generally those that are high in proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Examples of acidic foods include meat and poultry, most grains and breads, and anything high in fat and sugar. Alcohol and coffee are also acid forming.

Many of these foods form the basis of the standard American diet. Processed foods and fast foods are all acid forming foods. You may find that your diet consists of many of these acidic foods. However, it is easy to slowly cut out acid forming foods and replace them with healthier, alkaline forming foods.

It isn't hard to pay attention to the foods you are eating and make sure to eat mostly alkaline forming foods. Take time to add healthy fruits and vegetables to your diet as well as try drinking ionized water. You may be surprised by how energized you feel. Your body will definitely healthier.