Foods That Make the Body Alkaline

The pH balance of the human bloodstream is one of the most important biochemical balances in the human body. Since the body prefers to keep an alkaline pH balance, it is important to eat a diet rich in alkaline foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains. Eating a diet rich in alkaline foods also prevents acidosis, increased acid in the blood.

The pH Balance

The pH scale goes from 0 to 14, with 0 to 7 representing acidic foods and 7.1 to 14 representing alkalizing foods. The body tries to maintain an alkalizing pH of 7.4 by depositing or withdrawing minerals from bones, fluids or soft tissues. Eating a diet rich in alkaline foods will help the body maintain an alkaline pH balance.

Classification

All foods are classified into two categories, alkalizing or acidifying, based on the effect the food has on urine pH after consumption. If a food increases the acidity of urine after consumption, it is classified as an acidic food. Conversely, if a food increases the alkalinity of urine after consumption, it is classified as an alkalizing food. Within the two categories of alkaline and acidic, foods are then redivided into high, moderate and low classification based on how acidic or how alkalizing a food is.

Highly Alkaline Foods

Lemons, limes, grapefruits, watermelons, papayas, asparagus, onions, vegetable juices, parsley, spinach, broccoli, garlic, barley, olive oil and grape seed oil are highly alkaline.

Moderately Alkaline Foods

Moderately alkaline foods include dried fruits, melons, grapes, mangoes, apples, pears, kiwis, okra, squash, green beans, beets, celery, lettuce, zucchini and sweet potatoes.

Low-alkaline Foods

Amaranth, quinoa, millet, lentils, wild rice, corn, oranges, bananas, cherries, pineapple, peaches, avocados, carrots, tomatoes, mushrooms, cabbage, peas, cauliflower, turnips, olives, canola oil, raw sugar, coconuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts, goat cheeses, whey and soy products are low-alkalizing foods.