Why you should try an alkaline diet

7 October 2015 by
First published: 22 April 2014

Eating an alkaline diet is all about restoring the PH balance of your bod. Why does this matter? Well, nutritional experts claim it’s the key to better digestion, glowing skin and more energy. Sounds good to us!

So how does it work?
Overdosing on certain type of foods – lots of meat, processed foods, fizzy drinks – can leave your body very acidic. Why does this matter? An alkaline diet is kinder to your digestive system and gentler on your kidneys – meaning they don’t have to leach key minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, from elsewhere in the body. So the focus is on eating lots of alkaline goodies and minimising the acidic nasties to bring the body back into balance.

What are the benefits?
Sticking to an alkaline diet will give your digestive system a real boost and this has a knock-on effect on so many of the body’s systems. You’re likely to experience less bloating, better skin, improved focus, a boost in mood, more energy and reduced cravings. What’s not to love? And it could be a winner for overall health. A study in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health states that, ‘it would be prudent to consider an alkaline diet to reduce morbidity and mortality of chronic disease that are plaguing our aging population.’ The study lists bone health, reduced muscle wastage, reduced risk of stroke, better cardiovascular health and improved memory as possible benefits of eating an alkaline diet.

What can you eat?
Steering clear of processed foods, too much red meat, stimulants such as coffee and tea, fizzy drinks and poultry is a good way to get started. Instead opt for fruit and veg, including citrus foods, which although they taste acidic are actually alkaline in the body. Eat plenty of greens, seeds and nuts. And eat good grains such as quinoa, brown rice and oats and nut milks. For a full list of the foods to eat and the foods to avoid check out the Honestly Healthy Cookbook, it’s a great guide tog getting started with an alkaline diet. Plus if you want to whip up some alkaline meals, check out our alkaline recipes or our top five  alkaline supplements.