In an effort to stay healthy and sport a svelte body, one has to try various diets either recommended by a friend, a colleague, a health professional, or in some cases, followed celebrity diets. Diet is crucial. The most well-known ones include The Atkins Diet, The South Beach Diet, The Zone and the Macrobiotic diet. But there's another diet called the Alkaline or the pH diet that is gaining popularity among celebs.

Diet theory

The Alkaline diet is based on the theory that as one consumes more foods of an acidic nature it may lead to health complications. Expert describes the diet as one that emphasises fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes.

It's a diet based on the theory that certain foods, when consumed leaves an alkaline residue, the food is thus classified as alkaline food

Without this balance, the body is unable to sustain itself. The optimal pH level is around 7.35 to 7.45, slightly alkaline."

Acidic and alkaline foods

Foods are classified under three groups as neutral, acid-forming or alkalising depending on the effect they have on the body. Nutritionist explains, "An acid-forming food contributes hydrogen ions to the body, making it more acidic. An alkalising food removes hydrogen ions from the body and reduces acidity level in our body." A common misconception is that if a food tastes acidic, it is more acid-forming effect on the body. It is important to note that this classification is based on the effect foods have on the body after digestion, not on their own intrinsic acidity or alkalinity (how they taste to us). For example, citric fruits like lemon, lime, grapefruit melons are considered as acidic because of their taste. However, their mineral content after digestion has alkalinising effect.

Working Process

Alkaline Diet focus is to balance the pH level of the body, achieve a healthy pH level, rebuilds cells and tissues, and eventually leading to a healthy body. Human body is an easy target for disease to occur only if, pH levels are acidic. For proper cell functioning is important to detox all the toxins from the body and it can be done through this diet. Apart from this it also makes teeth healthier, reduces pains and slows down ageing. In short it helps in proper digestion of food and to give a perfect body.

Benefits and drawbacks

The benefits of the pH diet include renewed energy levels, good digestion, weight loss, reduce aches and pains, and control of hypertension and better management of blood sugar levels. Besides these, there are healthier teeth and gums, better immune system and slowing of the ageing process. As for the drawbacks, one needs to keep in mind that he has to stick to the 80:20 per cent factor whereby he consumes 80 per cent alkalising foods to 20 per cent acidifying foods. Certain fats and oils that are restricted from the alkaline diet can provide essential fatty acids, which are required to maintain immunity and make healthy cells.

Alkaline foods vegetables

Broccoli, Carrot, Cauliflower, Cucumber, Eggplant, Garlic, Tomato, Alfalfa, Asparagus, Barley Grass, Spinach, Coconut Fruits & nuts: Apple, Apricot, Avocado, Banana, Blackberries, Coconut, Grapefruit, Grapes, Lemon, Lime, Muskmelons, Orange, Almonds, Chestnuts Liquids: Water, herbal and green tea Oil: Cold pressed organic olive and flax seed oil

Condiments and sweeteners: Apple cider vinegar, molasses, herbs, organic honey and maple syrup.

Acidic foods vegetables