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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, November 02, 2009

Eat Alkaline Foods to Protect from the Flu

Q: Dear Elena: I heard that if you eat more alkaline foods you can protect yourself from getting sick. Is this true?

A: Your body's alkaline and acid balance (pH levels) can play a role in your overall state of health. For optimum health and well-being, we should have a pH level as close to 7 (neutral) as possible.

While few people follow a healthy diet, most tend to be more acidic than alkaline. As we become more aware of food's effect on our health, more and more people start looking into ways to improve their health through good nutrition.

Acid/alkaline imbalance can be a result of consuming too many acid-forming foods (which are different from foods that are acidic themselves), such as poultry, eggs, meat, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Cola beverages, alcohol, and coffee are among the most acid forming, and should be avoided when possible.

Regular stress can also contribute to an abundance of acidity. Besides depleting our energy, new research shows a highly acidic body can cause a variety of serious health issues, including: premature aging, malabsorption of essential vitamins and minerals leading to problems such as osteoporosis, elevated stress-hormone production and weight gain, as well as poor immune system and tendency to develop frequent infections and even cancer.

To decrease acidity and become more alkaline, your diet should include 25 percent acid-forming foods and 75 percent alkaline-forming foods. Some of the most alkalizing foods include fresh, colorful, in-season salads, vegetables, herbs, sea vegetables, vegetable juices, and fruits. One of the quickest and easiest ways to become more alkaline is by using a green drink supplement daily.

Another method I recommend is to combine acid-forming foods with alkaline foods. This can mean eating chicken with broccoli or tofu with dark green vegetables, for example. By combining foods this way, you can naturally promote a healthier acid/alkaline balance, which, in turn, promotes a healthier, more energized body. If you are not sure of what to do, there are many acid/alkaline food charts that are available for reference.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist