I was talking about inflammation with my friend Natassa the other day and how it’s really the cause of so much pain and hardship on the body – moodiness, digestion problems, fatigue to name a few of the problems it causes. Basically, inflammation is a sign that something in the body is off balance.
So we did some research and…..
Acid Versus Alkaline: Why It Matters
The concept of an alkaline Vs acid body is a popular way to describe the nature of the body’s pH levels. Foods that are alkaline promote an alkaline body while acidic foods promote an acidic body that leads to inflammation. An alkaline body feels energetic, free from joint pain most of the time, and will operate smoothly with a general sense of well-being. An alkaline body tends to crave more healthy and fresh foods. On the other hand, drinking, smoking, eating junk food and a lack of rest all quickly lead to inflammation and an acidic body.
Our diet and our lifestyle choices are therefore very important. Below we give you a few tips on how to keep an alkaline body:
Foods to Avoid
These foods should be avoided as much as possible.
- Meat
- Eggs
- Alcohol
- Nicotine/Drugs
- Refined Grains
- Processed Foods
- Processed Sugars and Artificial sweeteners
- If you need your coffee, try organic or low acid coffee
- Fried Foods
- Sodas
- Energy Drinks
Foods to Eat A Few Times a Week:
These foods are acid by nature but each body reacts differently, so take note of how each one makes you feel after you eat it. If it makes you achy, tired, moody, and suffer cravings, you might want to avoid it as much as possible.
- Vinegars (except apple cider vinegar, which is alkaline)
- Processed chocolate
- Wheat
- Roasted nuts and seeds
- Roasted nut butters
- Soy-based processed proteins
- Natural sugars like coconut or maple, agave, etc.
- Dried fruits with added sugars or sulfites
- Salad dressings
Foods to Eat:
These foods are all incredibly healthy for you!
- Leafy greens
- Vegetables
- Fruits (all, especially lemons and limes)
- Soaked and properly prepared beans and legumes
- Superfood and green powders
- Raw nuts and seeds and butters
- Dates and Dried Figs
- Seaweed
- Herbal Tea
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Water
- Green Juices and Smoothies
- Herbs and spices
Last but not least, you should get plenty of rest and regular exercise to keep your blood and lymph flowing through your body. Also, remember that stress can be just as inflammatory to the body as your food, so try to manage it as much a possible.
