When it comes to controlling the health of the body, it is necessary to take into account the transformation generated in food after digestion. In this sense, alkaline diet strengthens our immune system, reducing the risk of certain diseases such as cancer. However,what are alkaline foods? What are its benefits?
What are alkaline foods?
The foods we usually eat give rise to a alkaline reaction or acidity in our body It appears in the pH of the blood. It is measured between 0 and 14, with 0 being the highest acidity and 14 the highest alkalinity. That means that 7 is associated with a neutral value that we must maintain to be healthy.
The alkaline foods are source of vitamins and minerals, being very beneficial for the body. Most vegetables and green leafy foods also provide oxygen, phytonutrients, and chlorophyll, which help alkalize the body. And it is that reducing acidity is essential to obtain well-being and an extra contribution of energy. Likewise, we will strengthen the immune system and reduce the chances of contracting certain diseases such as cancer.
Follow an alkaline diet involves the consumption of plant foods, something that will facilitate weight loss. In addition, our bone structure will improve, as will our digestive and intestinal health by compensate for natural acidity of the organism.
List of alkaline foods
Acidosis is very present in our lifestyle and in our diet. The excess of refined flours, dairy products, sugar, soft drinks, medicines, processed foods and the lack of consumption of vegetables is what generates acidification. Similarly, our daily habits related to difficulty falling asleep, stress, sedentary lifestyle, nervousness, and so on.
When this happens, the system tends to be exhausted, leading to the appearance of various diseases. To prevent this from happening, it is convenient to know what are alkaline foods and knowing how to recognize them to stop the flow of acids and lead a healthy lifestyle. These are some of the most prominent that you will easily find in the supermarket:
The spinach
The spinach They are rich in chlorophin and a powerful alkalizing agent. It’s one of the best alkaline foods that 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.
Cabbage KALE
The cabbage KALE help to reduce bad cholesterol, being also a great help against cancer due to its glucosinolate content. It contains antioxidants and detoxifying capacity, being more effective when steamed. Also noteworthy is its easy digestion.
Cucumber
The cucumber is another of the best alkaline foods due to its high concentration of water (more than any other vegetable), being very hydrating. 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 for fight cancer. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it detoxifies the skin and body, and facilitates the work of the digestive and cardiovascular systems. It is a very alkaline food that can be eaten raw or steamed, being recommended for use in smoothies, salads, juices or dressed with other vegetables.
Avocado
The avocado it is one of the most alkaline foods you will find. It is true that it has a high level of fat, but we are talking about good fats, so you will not gain weight. It is source of Omega 3, being a great ally to curb bad cholesterol levels and accelerate metabolism, which means spending more calories.
Celery
The celery It has a high alkalinity and its high water content makes it perfect for making soup or similar. It is a source of vitamin C, thus enhancing your immune system and stopping the appearance of various types of cancer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping in the prevention of asthma, osteoporosis or arthritis.
Pepper
The pepper it is rich in antioxidants and it has vitamins A, C and E. It is easily included in all kinds of dishes such as salads, stews or garnishes, contributing to the prevention of cancer, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, muscle degeneration and inflammation.