What are the surprising facts about GERD and acid reflux. How many Americans are affected by acid reflux. Can acid reflux occur without heartburn. Are strawberries safe for people with acid reflux. What is TNE and how does it diagnose acid reflux.

The Prevalence of Acid Reflux in America

Acid reflux is a common condition that affects millions of Americans. But just how widespread is this issue? Approximately 60 million Americans suffer from acid reflux, making it a significant health concern across the nation. This condition, once thought to primarily affect white males over 50, now impacts individuals of all races, genders, and adult age groups.

Why has acid reflux become so prevalent in recent years? Several factors contribute to this increase, including:

• Changes in dietary habits
• Increased obesity rates
• Stress and lifestyle factors
• Greater awareness and diagnosis of the condition

Understanding the Two Types of Acid Reflux

Many people are familiar with the classic symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn. However, did you know that there are actually two distinct types of acid reflux? These are:

1. Heartburn reflux (GERD): The main complaint is heartburn
2. Throatburn reflux (LPR): Characterized by chronic cough, frequent throat-clearing, hoarseness, and a lump-like sensation in the throat

Is it possible to have acid reflux without experiencing heartburn? Yes, throatburn reflux (LPR) can occur without any heartburn complaints. This form of acid reflux is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, as patients may not associate their symptoms with reflux.

The Potential Dangers of Untreated Acid Reflux

While many people view acid reflux as a mere inconvenience, it can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated or insufficiently managed. What are the potential complications of chronic acid reflux?

• Severe inflammation in the esophagus, stomach, lungs, vocal cords, and throat
• Increased risk of esophageal cancer
• Chronic respiratory issues
• Dental erosion

Why is esophageal cancer a particular concern? Since the mid-1970s, esophageal cancer has been the fastest-growing cancer in America and Europe. This alarming trend underscores the importance of properly managing acid reflux to prevent long-term complications.

The Role of Diet in Managing Acid Reflux

Diet plays a crucial role in managing acid reflux symptoms. Which foods should individuals with acid reflux avoid? Acidic foods are known to exacerbate symptoms by loosening the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus. Some common acidic foods to avoid include:

• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Mint
• Tomato
• Onion
• Garlic

Are there any surprising foods that people with acid reflux should be cautious about? Interestingly, some “healthy” foods are also highly acidic and may trigger symptoms. These include:

• Honey
• Blackberries
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Blueberries

The Strawberry Dilemma: Acidic or Alkaline?

Are strawberries safe for people with acid reflux? The answer is not straightforward. Outside the body, strawberries are indeed acidic, with a pH below 7. However, once metabolized, strawberries have an alkalizing effect on the body, potentially raising the pH of body tissue above 7.

How can people with acid reflux enjoy acidic fruits like strawberries? One strategy is to buffer these foods with more alkaline options. For example, adding unsweetened almond milk to berries can help neutralize their acidity, making them safer for consumption by those with acid reflux.

A Balanced Approach to Diet for Acid Reflux Management

What type of diet is most effective for managing acid reflux? Based on clinical experience, a low-acid, high-fiber diet that balances all three macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) can be beneficial. This approach not only reduces inflammation from acid reflux but also supports sustainable weight loss, which can further alleviate symptoms.

Why is weight loss important in managing acid reflux? Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter, exacerbating reflux symptoms. By adopting a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight, many individuals find significant relief from their acid reflux symptoms.

Innovative Diagnosis: Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE)

Advancements in medical technology have revolutionized the diagnosis of acid reflux. Can acid reflux be diagnosed without sedating the patient? Yes, thanks to a technique called Transnasal Esophagoscopy (TNE).

How does TNE work? This innovative procedure involves:

1. Using an ultra-thin camera, about the size and softness of a cooked piece of spaghetti
2. Inserting the camera through the nose into the throat area and then into the esophagus
3. Bypassing the back of the mouth, avoiding stimulation of the gag reflex
4. Examining the esophagus for damage from acid reflux while the patient is awake

What are the advantages of TNE over traditional endoscopy?

• No need for intravenous sedation
• Increased safety due to patient consciousness
• Lower cost and greater convenience
• Immediate return to normal activities post-procedure
• Comparable effectiveness in detecting potentially precancerous tissue

The Future of Acid Reflux Management

As our understanding of acid reflux continues to evolve, what can we expect in terms of future treatments and management strategies? Some promising areas of research and development include:

• Personalized dietary approaches based on individual pH responses
• Advanced medications with fewer side effects
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Improved diagnostic tools for early detection of complications
• Integration of lifestyle modifications with medical treatments

How can individuals take a proactive approach to managing their acid reflux? By staying informed about the latest research, working closely with healthcare providers, and adopting a holistic approach to treatment that includes diet, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical interventions, people with acid reflux can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Debunking Common Myths About Acid Reflux

Misconceptions about acid reflux abound, potentially leading to improper management of the condition. What are some common myths about acid reflux that need to be addressed?

• Myth: Acid reflux only causes heartburn
• Fact: As we’ve learned, throatburn reflux can occur without heartburn symptoms

• Myth: Acid reflux is just a nuisance and not a serious health concern
• Fact: Untreated acid reflux can lead to severe complications, including esophageal cancer

• Myth: Medications are the only effective treatment for acid reflux
• Fact: Dietary and lifestyle changes can be highly effective in managing symptoms

• Myth: All acidic foods must be completely avoided
• Fact: Some acidic foods can be consumed safely when properly balanced with alkaline foods

Why is it important to dispel these myths? By understanding the true nature of acid reflux, individuals can make more informed decisions about their health and seek appropriate treatment when necessary. This knowledge empowers patients to take an active role in managing their condition and improving their overall well-being.

The Importance of Individualized Treatment

While general guidelines for managing acid reflux are helpful, it’s crucial to recognize that each person’s experience with the condition is unique. Why is an individualized approach to treatment essential?

• Varying triggers: What exacerbates symptoms in one person may not affect another
• Different manifestations: Some individuals may primarily experience heartburn, while others may have throat-related symptoms
• Underlying health conditions: Coexisting health issues can influence the management of acid reflux
• Response to treatments: Medications and lifestyle changes may have different levels of effectiveness for each individual

How can patients work with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan? By keeping detailed records of symptoms, triggers, and responses to various interventions, patients can provide valuable information to their doctors. This collaborative approach allows for the development of a tailored strategy that addresses the specific needs and circumstances of each individual with acid reflux.

The Global Impact of Acid Reflux

While our discussion has focused primarily on acid reflux in the United States, it’s important to consider the global perspective. How does the prevalence and impact of acid reflux vary around the world?

• Cultural dietary differences can influence the incidence and severity of acid reflux
• Varying healthcare systems affect access to diagnosis and treatment
• Genetic factors may play a role in susceptibility to acid reflux in different populations
• Environmental factors, such as air pollution, can exacerbate symptoms in certain regions

What can we learn from global approaches to acid reflux management? By studying diverse populations and treatment strategies worldwide, researchers and healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into effective prevention and management techniques. This global perspective may lead to more comprehensive and adaptable approaches to addressing acid reflux on an international scale.

The Role of Stress in Acid Reflux

While diet and physiological factors play a significant role in acid reflux, the impact of stress should not be overlooked. How does stress contribute to acid reflux symptoms?

• Increased production of stomach acid
• Altered digestive processes
• Heightened sensitivity to pain and discomfort
• Changes in eating habits and food choices

What stress management techniques can be beneficial for individuals with acid reflux?

• Mindfulness meditation
• Regular exercise
• Deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep and rest
• Time management and prioritization

By incorporating stress reduction strategies into their overall treatment plan, individuals with acid reflux may find additional relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Emerging Research and Future Directions

The field of acid reflux research is continuously evolving, with new studies shedding light on various aspects of the condition. What are some promising areas of research that may shape the future of acid reflux management?

• Microbiome studies: Investigating the role of gut bacteria in acid reflux
• Genetic research: Identifying genetic markers that may predispose individuals to acid reflux
• Advanced imaging techniques: Developing more precise methods for visualizing esophageal damage
• Novel drug therapies: Exploring new medications with targeted actions and fewer side effects
• Artificial intelligence: Utilizing AI for more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans

How might these advancements impact patients in the coming years? As our understanding of acid reflux deepens, we can anticipate more targeted and effective treatments, improved diagnostic capabilities, and potentially even preventive strategies based on genetic and environmental factors. This ongoing research holds the promise of significantly improving outcomes for individuals suffering from acid reflux and related conditions.

The Importance of Patient Education and Empowerment

As we’ve explored the complexities of acid reflux, it becomes clear that patient education and empowerment are crucial components of effective management. Why is it essential for individuals with acid reflux to be well-informed about their condition?

• Better symptom recognition and management
• Improved adherence to treatment plans
• Ability to make informed lifestyle choices
• Enhanced communication with healthcare providers
• Reduced anxiety and improved quality of life

How can healthcare systems and providers support patient education and empowerment? By offering comprehensive educational resources, fostering open communication, and encouraging active participation in treatment decisions, healthcare professionals can help individuals with acid reflux take control of their health and achieve better outcomes.

7 Surprising Facts About GERD and Acid Reflux

In my 24 years as a practicing ear, nose, and throat specialist, I have treated thousands of patients with acid reflux disease.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backwards up into the esophagus. The esophagus is the structure that connects the throat to the stomach.

Among my patients with acid reflux many are surprised to learn that you can have acid reflux without the traditional complaint of heartburn.

Here are seven other facts those with acid reflux are often surprised to learn:

1. Acid reflux affects approximately 60 million Americans. Classically, acid reflux disease was thought to be a disease affecting white males over 50. However, that no longer holds true. Acid reflux affects every race, gender and adult age group.

2. There are two types of acid reflux disease: “Heartburn reflux,” in which the main complaint is heartburn, and “throatburn reflux,” in which the main complaints are chronic cough, frequent throat-clearing, hoarseness and/or a lump-like sensation in your throat. Throatburn reflux is acid reflux without any heartburn complaints. The medical term for heartburn reflux is GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) and the medical term for throatburn reflux is LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux)

3. Acid reflux can lead to more serious problems. Let untreated, or insufficiently treated, acid reflux disease can lead to severe inflammation in the esophagus, stomach, lungs, vocal cords, and throat. In some cases, untreated or insufficiently treated acid reflux can even progress to esophageal cancer – the fastest growing cancer in America and Europe since the mid 1970s.

4. You should avoid acidic foods if you have acid reflux disease, because they loosen the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus.  In addition to the “classic” acidic foods – such as caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, mint, tomato, onion, and garlic –  “healthy” foods such as honey, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are very acidic too.

5. Healthy acidic foods such as honey and berries can have their acidity neutralized by buffering them with more alkaline (less acidic) foods. For example, berries become safer for people with acid reflux if you add unsweetened almond milk.

6. A low acid, high-fiber diet that contains a balance of all three macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbs) reduces inflammation from acid reflux and helps with sustainable weight loss as well, in my clinical experience.

7. Acid reflux can be diagnosed without having to sedate the patient. In other words, we now have the ability to examine the esophagus for damage from acid reflux with the patient wide awake. This technique, which I helped pioneer in 1998 in the United States, is called TNE (transnasal esophagoscopy).

The traditional way to examine the esophagus had been to place a large camera in the mouth and guide it past the throat into the esophagus. Because the camera went through to the back of the mouth, where the powerful gag reflex was always stimulated,  we needed to give patients intravenous sedation to negate the effects of the gag reflex. With TNE, an ultra-thin camera the size and softness of a cooked piece of spaghetti, is placed via the nose into the throat area, then into the esophagus. By going through the nose, the doctor bypasses the back of the mouth, so the gag reflex isn’t stimulated.

Because you don’t have to worry about the gag reflex with TNE, patients don’t need IV sedation. Because the patient is awake, the procedure is much safer, there’s also no need for expensive monitoring , and the patient can go back to work or to play right after the procedure.

TNE is less expensive and more convenient than traditional sedated upper endoscopy. And numerous studies have shown that TNE is as safe as traditional sedation upper endoscopy, as well-tolerated by the patient, and as good as detecting potentially precancerous tissue. Most people have never heard of TNE, but in the past 10 years, more doctors are using this technique and residency training programs are teaching it.

Jonathan E. Aviv MD, FACS, is the clinical director and founder of the Voice and Swallowing Center of ENT and Allergy Associates in New York City. He is the author of Killing Me Softly From Inside: The  Mysteries and Dangers of Acid Reflux and Its Connection to America’s Fastest Growing Cancer with a Diet That May Save Your Life. You can reach him on Facebook, and YouTube.

Are Strawberries Acidic or Alkaline?

Outside the body, strawberries are indeed acidic (pH is below 7). This is a non-issue. Inside the body however, when strawberries have been fully metabolized and its minerals are dissociated in the bloodstream, its effect is alkalizing and therefore raises the pH of body tissue (pH above 7 is alkaline). Please notice the difference.

Strawberries contain five different acids: citric acid, ascorbic acid, malic acid, ellagic acid and pantothenic acid. The total amount of each acid varies based on the variety of strawberry, how it is stored and the storage period. The U.S.

What Kind of Acid Is in Strawberries?

A diagnosis of acid reflux no longer means saying goodbye to all of your favorite fruits. These super foods are an important part of a healthy diet. Fruits are usually low in fat and rich in the sort

foods that have acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, added; fermented foods, such as sauerkraut. During the fermentation process bacteria produce an acid. Naturally acidic foods include most fruits, such as: apples; berries; blackberries; blueberries; cranberries; peaches; pears; raspberries; strawberries

Acid reflux, also known as heart burn, is a chronic condition in which acid or bile flows from the food pipe into the stomach, irritating its inner lining.It is a long-term disease which causes a burning sensation in the lower chest region due to the flow of the acid back up the food pipe.

Instead, focus on foods that do not raise the acidic load on the body. Alkaline diets are sometimes based on a myth that people should eat non-acidic foods. List of Non-Acidic Fruits and Vegetables | foodnewsnews.com

Okay so I have a sore throat and I want to make a smoothie using frozen strawberries to help soothe it but my doctor said not to eat foods that are acidic but Everytime I go on a website to see if strawberries are acidic it never has the right answer it always gives me a whole bunch of stuff that isn’t very useful thanks

Strawberries 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits

Strawberries contain malic acid, which can soften and dissolve stains on your teeth. Because of this, many people use a strawberry-baking soda mix to “naturally” whiten their teeth. However, malic acid is still an acid, which breaks down tooth enamel.

As strawberries ripen, their sugar content rises from about 5% in unripe green fruit to 6-9% on ripening. The acidity comes mainly from citric acid which comprises about 88% of the acid content, along with malic acid and ellagic acid. When they ripen, the acidity decreases.

The research I have found on strawberries is inconclusive – one claiming an increase in uric acid, the other a decrease. Again these are very small studies and not aimed at gout sufferers. Uric acid metabolism is extremely complicated. The kidneys, when functioning normally, make compensation for changes in uric acid in the blood stream.

Strawberries are a source of the B vitamin folic acid. it would be difficult to get all of your body’s needs for folic acid from strawberries, but they make an important contribution. More importantly, strawberries contain folic acid that is already in the form the body uses, methylfolate .

In limited animal studies, strawberries inhibit inflammation and decrease the growth of several types of cancer cells. Animal studies often use freeze-dried strawberry powder, which is extra-concentrated in ellagic acid. Be cautious about interpreting laboratory studies as applicable to humans.

Low-Acid Fruits for Acid Reflux

First, it’s acidic, and acid helps balance the sugar in the jam so that it’s not too sweet. Second, it’s naturally high in pectin. If you’re not using boxed pectin, lemons give the strawberries a boost since they are low in pectin, and pectin is crucial if you want your jam to thicken and gel.

What is an Alkaline Diet? In simple terms, an Alkaline Diet improves the pH balance within your body. PH stands for “ potential of hydrogen,” and acts as a chart for acidity and alkalinity for our bodies and food.. Water has a neutral pH of 7.0 and is the “base” for charting pH balance. Anything with under a pH of 7.0 is acidic, and anything with a pH of over 7. 0 is alkaline.

Strawberries definitely deserve their praise. Considered a “super-fruit,” the strawberry is rich in antioxidants and extremely beneficial to heart health. Low in calories but high in vitamin C, potassium, fiber and folic acid, strawberries are a tasty part of a healthy diet — but too much of a good thing can be bad for your teeth.

Strawberries are packed with taste and healthy goodness. A lot has been talked about their benefits for the human body. But are strawberries good for stomach ulcers? Let us check that in this Buzzle article… Smile Please! Strawberries can help whiten your teeth. The acids in this berry help remove stains, and hence, whiten the teeth.

Strawberries’ potential to ease osteoarthritis pain in people with obesity has also been put to the test. Other researchers have focused on the berry’s positive impact on cardiovascular health

How to Acidify Soil for Strawberries

Strawberries, raw has a nutritional value score of 34 out of 100. Comparing the folic acid content and the nutritional density in 100g for Strawberries, raw; We class this as a medium to low folic acid content item.In terms of overall nutritional value we class this as an item with a high nutritional density value.

Strawberries are believed to help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. They are low in calories and high in vitamins C, B6, K, fiber, folic acid, potassium and amino acids. They are low in calories and high in vitamins C, B6, K, fiber, folic acid, potassium and amino acids.

Strawberries contain the tooth-whitening enzyme of malic acid, which can do wonders for your smile without the harmful chemicals and high cost of formal dental work. To get a pair of pearly whites, puree or crush one strawberry, add ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and mix well.

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamins C and K as well as providing a good dose of fibre, folic acid, manganese and potassium. They also contain significant amounts of phytonutrients and flavanoids which makes strawberries bright red.

Like strawberries, flax seeds contain both types of fiber. In addition to their high protein and omega-3 fatty acid content, flax seeds are a rich source of dietary fiber and are often used to promote regularity.

Related

Alkaline Fruits Guide (Which Fruits Are Alkaline vs Acidic and Why)

Alkaline Fruits: Which Are Alkaline & Why

The question of which are the alkaline fruits is such an important one to understand when you’re first starting on the alkaline diet.

Not all fruits are created equal, and while there are a lot of fruits you can eat with wild abandon, it is a mistake to think that all fruits are alkaline-forming and you can easily fall into the trap of over-consuming them.

Yes, you can over-consume fruit.

I’ll get onto this in just a moment, because first it’s essential to point out that most alkaline foods charts are dead wrong.

The Charts You Need to Ignore: When they List All Fruits As Alkaline Fruits

There are a lot of alkaline food lists out there, and I know so many people get frustrated because they all seem to conflict with each other.

But the fact is, there are not actually that many differences between them – really there is just one big difference:

The simple truth is that most fruits are not alkaline-forming.

Think things like pineapple, banana, oranges, melons – these are commonly listed as alkaline fruits, but they are actually mid-to-very acid-forming.

I know this could be a shock to a lot of people, so let me explain.

If These Are Not Alkaline, Why Are They On the List As Alkaline In So Many Food Charts?

The simple answer is that most charts are classifying the foods based on the PRAL method of determining pH (PRAL stands for Potential Renal Acid Load). In this methodology the food (or any other substance) is burned down to a fine ash, and the pH of the ash is measured.

This is a hugely useful measure for many hundreds of clinical applications.

But when it comes to food pH and our diet, it’s pretty useless. Why?

Because it doesn’t take SUGAR into consideration.

These fruits, like those I mentioned, the common fruits like bananas, pears, cherries, kiwi fruit, oranges, pineapple, apple and so on taste, well, really sweet and delicious.

And they taste sweet because they have a ton of fructose in them! And fructose is a pretty damaging sugar for the body (I’ll get into this more in a minute, but basically fructose is the WORST of the sugars).

Yes, they contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and so on, but when you look at the net affect these fruits have on the body, the sugar means they do more damage than good.

So Are You Telling Us to AVOID FRUIT?!

No, that’s not my point. I still think fruit is a wonderful treat and you should feel free to have 1-2 pieces per day (preferably organic and in-season). My point is that these fruits shouldn’t be eaten with wild abandon and seen as a ‘health food’ or free pass.

Plus, when it actually comes to WHY I would eat fruit, it’s actually more to do with it’s taste and convenience over it’s nutritional profile.

Research published in 2014 out of William Paterson University compiled the list of the world’s most ‘powerhouse fruits and vegetables’ based on the nutrient density and bioavailability of 41 different foods.

Foods were awarded “powerhouse” status by providing, on average, 10 per cent or more of the daily recommended intake across 17 nutrients that have been proven to prevent and reverse chronic disease.

SO of all of the fruits and vegetables they published the top 41.

Of the top 41, 38 were alkaline forming foods …and of those the TOP FIFTEEN WERE ALL LEAFY GREENS.

The only fruits to appear in the top 41 were strawberries, oranges and blackberries which were at 30, 33 and 38 respectively.

So for a nutrient hit, I like to stick to my vegetables. They don’t contain fructose and they DO contain a lot more nourishment.

The Problem With Fructose

Fruit, as delicious as it is, contains fructose. And fructose is be a problem.

While most types of sugar can be metabolised by practically every cell in the body, fructose can ONLY be metabolised by the liver. We were not designed to eat the vast volumes of fructose we now eat.

Regular sugars – table sugar, brown sugar, raw sugar, cane sugar – these are all 50% glucose and 50% fructose.

Don’t get me wrong, the glucose is acidic, oxidising, inflammatory and bad news – but if you’re moderately active, the body can use it.

Fructose cannot be used and it stresses the heck out of the liver, the pancreas and so much more.

[Note: Guide to Supporting Your Liver Naturally Here]

People think of fructose as a ‘natural sugar’, ‘fruit sugar’ or ‘healthy sugar’ but this is just not the case. It’s not only as damaging as any other sugar, but in reality – it’s actually worse.

The direct effects of fructose metabolism include:

1. 100% of the fructose being stored as fat cells – leading to weight gain, fatty liver disease & insulin resistance (and thus Type 2 Diabetes)
2. Fructose being processed by the liver heavily interferes with our appetite hormones
3. When our appetite hormones are out of balance, this metabolic shift to puts us into ‘starvation mode’ causing the body to store _all _food as fat
4. Fructose raises the levels of our ‘hunger hormone’ ghrelin and when ghrelin is elevated our brain sends the signal that we’re always hungry, no matter how much we eat

In short, fructose causes inflammation, liver stress, oxidative stress, uric acid formation, it makes us gain weight, we can’t stop eating it, and it makes us want to keep eating more. Not good.

And fruit contains a LOT of fructose.

Just check out this chart showing the total grams of sugar per serve:

These are not alkaline fruits! They are most definitely acidic, and we need to make sure we don’t eat, juice and smoothie a ton of them every day.

In fact, see below for my rules on juicing fruits.

You should definitely still eat these fruits, alkaline or not, 1-2 times a day because they’re a delicious snack, way more healthy than something that contains the sugar but NOT the vitamins etc.

But it is clear to see that they are not alkaline fruits and shouldn’t be classified as such.

Alkaline Fruits & Acidic Fruits

There is a key distinction here, because we’re not actually talking about alkaline fruits or acidic fruits…we’re talking alkaline-FORMING fruits and acid-FORMING fruits.

Remember this: It is not the pH of the food BEFORE we consume it that is the biggest influence, it is the EFFECT the food has on the pH of the body AFTER consumption.

Sounds like a minor thing, but as you’re about to see, it’s very important.

Alkaline Fruits List

• Lemon
• Lime
• Avocado
• Cucumber
• Tomato
• Grapefruit
• Pomegranate

That’s it! And half of these you wouldn’t normally consider to be a fruit anyway!

Now, I mentioned alkaline-FORMING before and this rule applies most clearly to lemons and limes. This confuses a lot of people because, as we all know, lemons and limes are acidic in nature.

However, when metabolised they have an alkaline-forming effect on the body, and so are to be classified as alkaline forming fruits.

Acidic Fruits List

Well, this is a list of basically every other fruit…

• Banana
• Pineapple
• Melons
• Grapes
• Oranges, mandarins, satsumas etc
• Berries: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries etc.
• Pears
• Passionfruit
• Kiwifruit
• Papaya
• Paw Paw
• Mango

Before you ask about any other fruit, the easy answer is – if it’s not on the alkaline fruits list, it’s not alkaline. The acidic fruits list isn’t exhaustive!

A note on fruit in juices and smoothies & dried fruit

I strongly recommend you don’t juice, blend or dehydrate (dry) fruits. Eat them whole and raw.

Fructose is far less damaging when consumed with fibre, chewed and digested slowly.

When the fibre is removed (as with juices) it is even more rapidly metabolised by the liver. Same goes for dried fruits. These give a huge hit of fructose with very little fibre and immediately stress the liver.

So there should be no fruit in juices (because the fibre is removed) and even in smoothies, because if your smoothie contained several serves of fruit and you drink the smoothie at a normal drinking pace, this would overload the liver very quickly (think about the time it takes to drink a drink vs to eat 2-3 pieces of fruit including chewing time).

The Best & Worst Acidic Fruits – A Rough Guide:

Really, it all comes down to the sugar content, as this pretty much overrides the nutritional content. So to keep it simple, you want to be eating less of the high-sugar fruits like pineapple, apple, oranges and bananas and instead, the alkaline forming fruits aside, sticking to the lower sugar fruits like berries and melons.

Honestly, all are fine in moderation as long as you’re sticking to the rules of:

1. 1-2 pieces only per day
2. Don’t juice or smoothie them
3. Stay away from dried fruit

Stick to those simple rules and you’re all set to continue enjoying fruits each day – regardless of their pH!

I really don’t want you to freak out about fruits, but at the same time I don’t want you eating (and worse, juicing) a ton of fruit every day thinking that it’s healthy and fine to eat in huge quantities.

The simple truth is that you CAN still eat a little fruit, but keep it within my rules and you’ll be set.

Any questions, please do ask below,
Ross

Alkaline Fruits Further Reading & Resources

What is PRAL
Sugar Alternatives: Complete Guide to Sugar & ‘Healthy’ Sugar
Full Alkaline Foods Chart
Introduction to the Alkaline Diet
Alkaline Diet Evidence
The Most Powerhouse Foods Study

Top Alkaline Foods to Eat & Acid Foods to Avoid

Diet is one of the biggest determinants of your health. What you put into your body every day affects everything: your biochemistry, your mood, your brain, muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, kidneys, liver.

Unfortunately, when it comes to diet, most people are on autopilot, following a disease-making Western Diet that is high in acidic foods and low in alkaline foods. The Western dietary pattern also called the Standard American Diet (SAD) is high in processed foods, fried foods and red meat. And it’s low in whole fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and healthier fats and proteins such as nuts, seeds and fish.

Many studies have concluded that the Western Diet increases inflammation and cholesterol. It also causes and contributes to the development of heart disease, dementia, osteoporosis, cancer, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and autoimmune diseases.

The explanation is very simple. Your body evolved to work optimally when provided with the right environment to function. The internal environment in your body requires a healthy mix of nutrients, and when it doesn’t get them consistently over time, things go haywire. For a more in-depth look at biochemistry and its impact on your health, read Dr. Neustadt’s article, Change Your Biochemistry to Change Your Health.

One way diet affects your health is through a process called “acid-alkaline balance.” The pH (potential of hydrogen) determines a substance’s acidity or alkalinity and is measured on a scale of 0 to 14. The lower the pH the more acidic the solution. The higher the pH the more alkaline (or base) the solution. When a solution is about in the middle of the range—neither acid nor alkaline—it has a neutral pH of 7.

The body regulates pH in very narrow ranges. In the different organs throughout the body, finely tuned physiological systems constantly work to keep the pH within specific ranges for optimal function. Stomach acid, which is important for healthy digestion and as a protection against potential infections, has a low pH, about 2-3. When the pH of your stomach cannot get low enough, it causes problems with digestion and can create acid reflux. Most people and medical approaches to acid reflux assume that there’s too much acid, when in fact the problem might to too little acid. Blood is kept at a neutral pH, between 7.35-7.45.

When your blood becomes too acidic, fine-tuned physiological mechanisms kick in to adjust the pH to a healthy level. One way it does this is by releasing calcium from bone. Over many years, this may contribute to developing osteoporosis.

The Western Diet is composed of acidic foods such as proteins, cereals, sugars and processed foods. Processed foods are highly acidic and almost completely stripped of their nutrients. Refining flour removes more than 80% of B vitamins, 85% of magnesium and 60% of the calcium from what was in the whole wheat. Eating a Western Diet increases your risk for nutritional deficiencies. I couldn’t find a dietary supplement for my patients that contained the optimal doses and combination of nutrients to help counteract the nutrient-depleting effects of the modern Western Diet, which is why I created Supreme Multivitamin. 

In addition to the nutritional deficiencies damaging your health, dietary acid load in the modern diet can lead to a disruption in acid-alkaline homeostasis in various body compartments and eventually result in chronic disease through repeated borrowing of the body’s alkaline reserves. 

The opposite of acidic foods are alkaline foods. In the Western Diet, alkaline foods such as vegetables are eaten in much smaller quantities; their alkaline content is insufficient to neutralize surplus acids. Stimulants like tobacco, coffee, tea, and alcohol are also extremely acidifying. Stress and physical activity (both insufficient or excessive amounts) also cause acidification.

Many foods as they exist in nature alkaline-producing by nature, but manufactured and processed foods transform the nutrient content of foods and make them mostly acid-producing.

It’s important to balance each meal with 75% alkaline-producing to 25% acid-producing to maintain health. We need plenty of fresh fruits and particularly vegetables (alkaline-producing) to balance our necessary protein intake (acid-producing). This pattern is essentially similar to the Mediterranean Diet, which research over the past 50 years has shown to be the healthiest dietary pattern. And we need to avoid processed, sugary or simple-carbohydrate foods, not only because they’re acid-producing but also because they raise blood sugar level too quickly (high glycemic index therefore fattening), are nutrient-lacking and may be toxic too.

Water is the most abundant compound in the human body, comprising 70% of the body. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the pH which is a balance between positively charges ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming.) The body continually strives to balance pH. When this balance is compromised many problems can occur.

It is important to understand that we are not talking about stomach acid or the pH of the stomach. We are talking about the pH of the body’s fluids and tissues which is an entirely different matter.

If you want to test your pH levels to determine if your body’s pH needs immediate attention you can do so using pH strips. Doing so lets you determine your pH factor quickly and easily in the privacy of your own home. If your urinary pH fluctuates between 6.0 to 6.5 in the morning and between 6.5 and 7.0 in the evening, your body is functioning within a healthy range. If your saliva stays between 6.5 and 7.5 all day, your body is functioning within a healthy range. The best time to test your pH is about one hour before a meal and two hours after a meal.

Urine testing may indicate how well your body is excreting acids and assimilating minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. These minerals function as “buffers.” Buffers are substances that help maintain and balance the body against the introduction of too much acidity or too much alkalinity. Even with the proper amounts of buffers, acid or alkaline levels can become extreme. When the body ingests or produces too many of these acids or alkalis, it must excrete the excess. The urine is the perfect way for the body to remove any excess acids or alkaline substances that cannot be buffered. If the average urine pH is below 6.5 the body’s buffering system is overwhelmed, a state of “autotoxication” exists, and attention should be given to lowering acid levels.

The blood pH has to be kept within a tight range of with a normal range of 7.36 to 7.44. An imbalanced diet high in acidic foods such as animal protein, sugar, caffeine, and processed foods puts pressure on the body’s regulating systems to maintain this neutrality. The extra buffering required can deplete the body of alkaline minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, making the person prone to chronic and degenerative disease.

Minerals are borrowed from vital organs and bones to buffer (neutralize) the acid and safely remove it from the body. Because of this strain, the body can suffer severe and prolonged damage due to high acidity–a condition that may go undetected for years.

Acidosis can cause such problems as:

Note that a food’s acid or alkaline-forming tendency in the body has nothing to do with the actual pH of the food itself. For example, lemons are very acidic, however, the end-products they produce after digestion and assimilation are very alkaline so lemons are alkaline-forming in the body. Likewise, the meat will test alkaline before digestion but it leaves very acidic residue in the body so, like nearly all animal products, meat is very acid-forming. It is important that your daily dietary intake of food naturally acts to balance your body pH.

This chart is intended only as a general guide to alkalizing and acidifying foods.

Acidic Foods And How They Affect Your Teeth

Most people love eating fruits: they’re sweet, juicy, and can be a healthy source of high vitamin C. However, because fruits and fruit drinks can be very acidic, consuming highly acidic foods and drinks every day can harm teeth without the right aftercare. Eating acidic fruits — and other foods — can eventually cause tooth enamel to wear away, leading to things like dental erosion and tooth sensitivity. You can still reap the benefits of eating the healthy foods you love by being aware of acid’s effect on your teeth — and caring for your dental health accordingly!

What Is Acidity?

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, which measures acidity or alkalinity levels (also known as the basicity) of any substance. You can also measure the ph balance of foods, liquids, and even the saliva in your mouth. Substances that fall below a pH of 7 are considered acidic, and those above seven are alkaline.

While you’re not eating or drinking, your saliva should stay close to the neutral range of 6.5 to 7.5 pH. This range is perfect for preventing acid eroding your enamel and tooth decay.

Which Foods Are Most Acidic?

High-acid foods can cause decay, sensitivity, and discoloration. That is why it’s important to consume them in moderation. Here are some highly acidic foods and drinks to be mindful of:

• Citrus fruits — lemons, limes, grapefruits, tangerines, and oranges
• Apples, grapes, peaches, pomegranates, blueberries, pineapples
• Fruit juices and sodas (both regular and diet)
• Tomatoes and tomato juice
• Jams and jellies
• Vinegar
• Sauerkraut

Make an effort to eat and drink foods that would not contribute to erosion, like these non-acidic foods and non-acidic beverages:

• Beans, including black, soy, kidney, and lima
• Corn, peas, peppers, asparagus, spinach, and broccoli
• Fish, including salmon, shrimp, and crab meat
• Cheeses
• Bread
• Tofu
• Green tea
• Potatoes, rice, and yams
• Watermelons, cantaloupes, and honeydew melons
• Ripe mangoes, bananas, and papayas

What Is Dental Erosion?

As hard as tooth enamel is, the high acid content in many foods and juices can cause it to weaken and demineralize over time. The calcium in saliva can help strengthen enamel, but when the environment in your mouth is too acidic, remineralization will not occur, which leads to tooth erosion and decay. Some common signs of erosion include:

• Sensitivity — Hot and cold foods, strongly-flavored sweets, and even cold air can produce sensitivity when in contact with your teeth.
• Discoloration — Your teeth might appear slightly yellower as your enamel becomes thinner, exposing the dentin underneath.
• Rounded teeth — Teeth may appear to have softer or sanded edges or as if there are small dents along the chewing surface.
• Transparency — The edges of your incisors (front teeth) may lessen in opacity, appearing as if you can almost see through them.
• Cracks — Tiny faults or a sharpness along the edges of the teeth are also common.

Preventing Enamel Erosion

You don’t have to give up acidic foods to prevent erosion. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy:

• Never suck on lemons, limes, or any highly acidic fruit. Putting these fruits against your teeth for any period of time is a sure way to soften the enamel on your teeth.
• Use a straw when drinking fruit juices. This keeps it from coming in direct contact with your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating fruit to dilute the acids in your mouth, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to give your enamel time to resettle.
• Keep your enamel strong by brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
• Eat cheese after your fruit. Cheese helps raise the pH levels in your mouth and increases saliva production, which also aids in neutralizing acids.

Of course, it’s essential to eat a balanced diet — with lots of fruits and vegetables — to get enough vitamin C. Remember to take precautions to keep acidic foods from hurting your teeth. To promote healthy teeth, brush, and floss daily, add more non-acidic foods to your diet and limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks. Visit your dentist regularly to discuss your enamel and ways to maintain a healthy smile.

Alkaline-Acid Food Charts to Help Balance Your pH

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Our bodies work hard to keep us healthy… and we don’t even have to pay attention.

For example, our white blood cells are constantly on the lookout for infections, allergens, and other invaders that need to be fought. Our liver is continuously in detox mode to process and eliminate whatever contaminants we encounter in our everyday environment, body care products, and food. And our metabolism is on a constant quest to keep our blood’s pH level slightly alkaline.

In case it’s been a while since your last chemistry class, pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline something is. The scale runs from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly) alkaline.

So for context:

• Lemon juice and vinegar are highly acidic with a pH around 2 (acidic outside the body, anyway — more on that in a moment)
• Bleach and ammonia are highly alkaline with a pH around 13 and 11, respectively (not that we would drink them, but just for context)
• Water is neutral at 7
• And our optimal blood pH sits between 7.35 and 7.45

Why is this important to know? I mean, we did just say that this (like other key tasks) happens automatically, right? Right! But these functions do take work and the thing is, our diet can affect how easily (or not) our body performs its tasks.

In this article

Acid- vs. alkaline-forming foods

The reason behind this mini science lesson is that the foods we eat can affect the acid-alkaline balance of our blood. That means, the foods we eat can either help our body’s efforts to keep our blood’s pH at the optimal level… or they can hinder those efforts.

But this can get confusing, because foods that we normally think of as acidic or alkaline, can sometimes have the opposite effect on our blood after we’ve digested it. For example, lemons, which are acidic in nature, can actually have an alkalizing effect on our blood. In other words, consuming a lemon can raise our blood pH, making it more alkaline… not more acidic.

Is your head spinning a little? Don’t worry, I’ll unpack this pretty easily for you. Ready?

What determines whether a food is acid-forming or alkaline-forming inside our body?

Digestion begins with our saliva, the moment food enters our mouth. Once food makes its way through our digestive tract, the enzymes and acids in our stomach further break it down and the effect is not dissimilar to “burning” it. The punchline is that the food’s pH can change once it’s been ‘burned’. So again, something that is acidic in nature (like lemons) can produce an alkalizing effect on our blood upon digestion.

This is how scientists determine a food’s pH effect on the body: They incinerate the food, mix the ash with water, and then analyze the mineral content of the ash. If the mineral content is highly alkaline, then the food will likely have an alkalizing effect on the body (even if it was acidic outside of the body), and vice versa. Pretty cool, right?

How does diet affect our acid-alkaline balance?

Let’s say we eat a meal that has an acid-forming effect on our blood — as is all too common in the typical western diet. Our body will work to bring the pH back into balance by releasing alkaline-rich minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium into our blood. If we haven’t been eating a healthy, balanced diet, our bodies may need to pull these important minerals from our bones, teeth, and organs. Yikes.

No matter what we eat, our body will continually strive to keep the alkalinity of our blood in check. It’s just a matter of: are we making this easy or difficult for our body to do?

• A healthy, well-balanced diet** helps to supply our body with the minerals it needs, while simultaneously preventing overly acidic blood pH, to begin with.
• By contrast, a predominantly acid-forming (western) diet forces our body to work harder to keep our pH balanced. As a result, we may have to sacrifice minerals from one area of our body (bones, teeth, organs) in order to keep our blood pH in check.

** A balanced diet equates to roughly 60-80% alkaline-forming foods and 20-40% acid-forming foods.

A balanced (more alkaline) diet can help our body to stay healthier with less effort.

Alkaline-acid food charts

Scroll down for the charts to see which foods have a (very low to highly) alkalizing vs. acidic effect on your body. Also, download this printable Alkaline-Acid Food Chart to stick on your fridge.

Using these charts

Note that the type of soil used to grow fruits and vegetables can influence their mineral content and test results can vary. As a result, different charts can report slightly different pH levels of the same foods.

That in mind, use these alkaline-acid food charts as a general guide and don’t worry if the chart you see here is slightly different from another you’ve found in a different corner of the internet. The small differences in degree ultimately won’t make a huge difference. What will make the biggest difference is replacing processed foods with fresh foods and adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet.

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Are Strawberries Acidic or Alkaline?

Are strawberries acidic or alkaline? Let’s take a closer look…

Despite the fact that strawberries contain some five different kinds of acids (citric acid, ascorbic acid, malic acid, ellagic acid and pantothenic acid), strawberries are categorized as an alkalizing fruit, which means that it has an alkaline effect on your body.

All foods and beverages have a pH measurement, which measures the acidity of foods. Interestingly, food pH and beverage pH may change once they are digested by your body. For example, orange juice has an acidic pH outside of the body, with a pH range of about 3-4. But, once orange juice is metabolized, it will leave alkaline residues in your body. Therefore, the effect of food pH inside your body may be very different than the pH of the food itself.

Those who suffer from problems with heart burn will be able to confidently eat strawberries because it will not exacerbate the problem at all.

A strawberry falls between 3.00 and 3.90 on the pH scale but is considered moderate Alkaline.

(photo: www.thedailygreen.com)

The pH of lemon juice for example, ranges from 2.00 to 2.6, making it very acidic, but because it also contains a lot of potassium it’s actually alkalizing in the body and can be used in combination with water as a remedy for people who have problems with acid reflux/heart burn. So if you happen to have this problem, there are many different fruits you will still be able to eat, including strawberries.

To eat a diet with more of an alkaline producing food pH or neutral food pH, increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Also, since food pH can change inside your body, it’s a good idea to use pH testing strips to test your urine. These testing strips will give you a better idea of what pH effect your diet is having on your body.
In general, you should aim for 75-80 percent alkaline forming foods and 20-25 percent acid forming foods.

So, are strawberries Acidic? No, they are not!
Then, are strawberries Alkaline? Yes, they are moderately alkaline!

Acid-base balance – acidic and alkaline products

Acid-base balance (acid-base balance) is the relative constancy of the ratio of acid and alkali (base) of the body, whose tissues are very sensitive to changes in pH. A decrease in pH, for example, to 7.2, significantly affects metabolism and digestion, weakens enzymes, creating a health hazard. To maintain the acid-base balance, a balanced diet is required, consisting of a slight preponderance of alkaline products (vegetables, fruits, herbs) over acidic ones (meat, dairy and refined products).

Normally, the pH of human blood is maintained within the range of 7.35-7.47, despite the intake of acidic and basic metabolic products into the blood. The constancy of the pH of the internal environment of the body is a necessary condition for the normal course of life processes. Blood pH values ​​outside these limits indicate significant disturbances in the body, and values ​​below 6.8 and above 7.8 are incompatible with life.

Foods that reduce acidity and are alkaline (basic) contain metals (potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron and calcium).They are usually high in water and low in protein. In contrast, acid-forming foods are usually high in protein and low in water. Non-metallic elements are usually found in protein.

Sour food on the left, alkaline food on the right

Acidity and digestion

In our digestive tract, the pH value takes on a variety of values. This is necessary for sufficient breakdown of food components. For example, our saliva in a calm state is slightly acidic. If more saliva is released during intense chewing, the pH changes and it becomes slightly alkaline.At this pH, alpha-amylase, which starts the digestion of carbohydrates already in the mouth, is particularly effective.

An empty stomach has a slightly acidic pH. When food enters the stomach, stomach acid is secreted to digest the proteins it contains and kill germs. This causes the pH of the stomach to become more acidic.

Bile and pancreatic secretions, having a pH of 8, give an alkaline reaction. These digestive juices require a neutral to slightly alkaline intestinal environment to function optimally.

The transition from the acidic environment of the stomach to the alkaline intestine occurs in the duodenum. So that the intake of large masses from the stomach (with abundant food) does not make the environment in the intestine acidic, the duodenum, with the help of a powerful annular muscle, the pylorus of the stomach, regulates the amount of stomach contents allowed into it. Only after the secretions of the pancreas and gallbladder have sufficiently neutralized the “sour” food gruel, a new “entry from above” is allowed.

Excess acids = diseases and cellulite

If a lot of acid is involved in the metabolism, the body tries to eliminate this excess in different ways: through the lungs – by exhaling carbon dioxide, through the kidneys – with urine, through the skin – with sweat and through the intestines – with feces. But when all possibilities are exhausted, acids accumulate in the connective tissue. Connective tissue in naturopathy refers to the tiny spaces between individual cells. Through these slots, the entire supply and discharge takes place, as well as a full-fledged information exchange between cells.Here, in the connective tissue, acidic metabolic waste becomes a strong hindrance. They are turning this fabric into a real garbage dump.

With coarse food, the mixing of food gruel with gastric juice is very slow. Only after an hour or two does the pH inside the gruel drop below 5. However, at this time in the stomach, the digestion of saliva by alpha-amylase continues.

Acids accumulated in the connective tissue act as foreign bodies, creating a constant risk of inflammation, which takes the form of various diseases.The consequences of acidic metabolic deposits in the connective tissue are: muscle rheumatism, fibromyalgia syndrome, arthrosis. A strong deposition of toxins in the connective tissue is often visible with the naked eye: this is cellulite. This word does not only mean the typical “orange peel” for women on the buttocks, thighs and shoulders. Even the face can look “worn out” due to the deposition of toxins.

Metabolic oxidation also negatively affects blood flow. Red blood cells, passing through the peroxidized tissue, lose their elasticity, stick together and form small clots, the so-called “coin columns”.Depending on the vessels in which these small blood clots appear, various ailments and disorders occur: myocardial infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, temporary disorders of cerebral circulation or local circulation in the lower extremities.

Osteoporosis is a consequence of the body’s over-oxidation, which is only now being realized. In contrast to bases, acids cannot be easily excreted from the body. They must first be balanced, neutralized. But in order for the acid with its pH to move to the neutral region, its antagonist, a base that binds the acid, is needed.

When the capacity of the body’s buffer system has been exhausted, it introduces mineral salts with an alkaline reaction, primarily calcium salts, to neutralize acids. The main reserve of calcium in the body is bones. It is, as it were, a quarry of the organism, from where it can extract calcium in case of over-oxidation. With a tendency to osteoporosis, it makes no sense to focus only on supplying the body with calcium, without having achieved the acid-base balance.

Chronic acid overload of the body is often expressed in the form of thin transverse cracks in the tongue.

Over-oxidation protection

There are two ways to protect the body from over-acidification: either limit the intake of acid-containing food, or stimulate the excretion of acids.

Power supply. The principle of acid-base balance with a slight predominance of bases should be observed in the diet. For normal metabolism, the body needs acids, but let acid-containing food simultaneously serve as a supplier of many other vital substances, such as high-grade flour or dairy products.

Drinking. The kidneys are one of the main excretory organs through which acids are excreted. However, acids can only leave the body when a sufficient amount of urine is produced.

Movement. Physical activity promotes the removal of acids through sweat and respiration.

Alkaline powder. In addition to the above measures, valuable alkaline mineral salts can be administered to the body in the form of an alkaline powder, which is produced in pharmacies.

Acidic and alkaline foods

To create an acid-base balance, it is important to have an understanding of alkaline and acidic foods in order to properly formulate the diet.

Acidic products. The body needs acid for metabolism. Its suppliers include such protein products as meat, sausage, fish, seafood, dairy products (cottage cheese, cheese, yogurt), grain and cereal products (bread, flour), legumes, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, asparagus, natural coffee, alcohol (primarily liqueurs), egg white.

The so-called base eaters have an acidic effect. The most famous of them are sugar and its processed products: chocolate, ice cream, sweets, etc. The bases are absorbed by white flour products – white bread, confectionery, pasta, as well as hard fats and vegetable oils.

Alkaline products are classified into high alkaline, medium alkaline and low alkaline products.

Apricots, dried apricots, peaches are among the most alkalized fruits.Less alkaline in apples, bananas, pineapples, avocados.

The most alkaline berries are currants, watermelon, strawberries, raspberries.

Vegetables with a pronounced alkaline effect include cucumbers, tomatoes, celery, lettuce, cabbage, radishes, peppers, carrots, beets, potatoes, artichokes.

Melons, rice, oatmeal, ginger, parsley, asparagus, seaweed have an alkaline effect among other food groups.

neutral products include cold-pressed vegetable oil, butter, properly purified water.

Balanced nutrition

For a balanced diet, you should always combine acidic and alkaline foods in your diet.

Breakfast , consisting of white bread, jam, sausage and natural coffee, can be the first attack of acids for your metabolism of the day. The following combination is more useful and less burdensome for metabolism: a small portion of raw grain muesli with milk and fruit, a slice of coarse grain bread with butter and cottage cheese with herbs, herbal or not too strong black tea.

For lunch , instead of the usual combination of meat and noodles, canned vegetables and a dessert containing sugar, you can eat for the first alkaline vegetable soup, a small portion of meat, fish, poultry or game with potatoes, stewed vegetables and fruit cottage cheese – from them the body will keep good for longer shape. As for acidic foods, you should choose those that do not contain empty calories, but biologically valuable ones.

Alkaline soups. As simple as it is effective, alkaline soups are an opportunity to introduce valuable bases into the body.To prepare them, boil about a cup of finely chopped vegetables in 0.5 liters of water. After about 10 minutes, crush the vegetables into puree. Add cream, sour cream and fresh herbs to taste. Many vegetables are suitable for alkaline soup: potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, zucchini, fennel, broccoli. Calling on your imagination to help, you can combine different types. Maybe you will create a real masterpiece from the leftover vegetables stored in the refrigerator.

Ready-to-eat products contain few vital substances, since many vitamins are lost during the manufacture and storage of such products.In addition, large amounts of preservatives and flavors are harmful to the intestinal flora and can cause allergic reactions. Unless you’re in time trouble, you should cook with unprocessed, raw foods.

Milk and dairy products. Milk and dairy products are important suppliers of protein for the body. In addition, these foods supply calcium to prevent bone breakdown. Fresh cow’s milk is classified as a weakly acidic product, but cottage cheese, sour milk, yogurt and cheese as lactic acid fermentation products are acidic, which, however, include nutrients valuable for metabolism.Nutritionists advise to consume only fresh dairy products, and homogenized milk is classified as an undesirable product. Fruit yoghurt (“fruit” here is a drop of jam) is not the best choice, it is advisable to prepare natural yoghurt in your kitchen and add fresh fruits and berries to it.

Eggs, meat, fish, poultry. Animal protein can be added to vegetable protein substances. True, one must beware of its excess, which causes putrefaction in the intestines. There is nothing to object to one or two small meals of meat or fish per week.With regard to meat, one must especially monitor its quality. Only buy meat from places where it is tested. Pork comes mainly from fattening enterprises, therefore it contains a lot of exchangeable slags; such meat is best avoided. Vegetarian food can be varied by dishes prepared with eggs.

Vegetables, fruits and herbs are the most important sources of bases, containing a lot of vitamins and mineral salts. True, some types of vegetables are not well absorbed by everyone.These are, first of all, legumes (peas, beans, lentils) and cabbage. People prone to flatulence and intestinal ailments should prefer more easily digestible vegetables: carrots, potatoes, celery, zucchini, fennel, figs.

90,000 Acidic and Alkaline Foods: What They Are and How to Eat Them Correctly

Eating Rules to Avoid Metabolic Diseases and Even Cancer

Read also: Habits that harm the kidneys

Many of us have heard that it is important to maintain acid-base balance, and remember from advertising of toothpaste that there is a certain pH, which should be normal.However, it is important to maintain this very pH not only for dental health – scientists believe that a violation of the acid-base balance of the body leads to such “troubles” as obesity, rashes on the body, sleep disturbances, psoriasis, eczema and even cancer.

• How to normalize your pH and what affects its imbalance?

Normally, the body’s pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45. Most scientists believe that the food we eat can increase or decrease it, depending on their properties.According to how certain foods affect the body, it is customary to divide them into “oxidizing” and “alkalizing”. As a rule, all fatty meats, fish, eggs, white flour products, alcohol and much more are classified as oxidizing. And to alkalizing – almost all vegetables and fruits, some cereals, flax seeds and chicory. To maintain a neutral pH, nutritionists recommend consuming these foods in a ratio of about 20/80 – that is, if you ate, say, a pork chop, you must restore the pH with a large portion of fresh vegetable salad on the same day.

• As defined, “acidic” product or “alkaline”

Read also: Foods that strengthen joints

Scientists determine the effect of food on the acid-base balance of the body by analyzing the mineral composition of foods. If the mineral composition is highly alkaline, the product is likely to have an alkaline effect. The reaction of the body is important – so, lemons, by themselves, are sour, but in the process of digestion they have an alkaline effect, and milk, on the contrary, has an alkaline effect outside the body, but during digestion it becomes oxidizing.

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We offer you a list of foods that are usually classified as alkaline and acidic:

• Alkaline foods

Very alkaline:

baking soda, lemons, lentils, linden, lotus root, mineral water, nectarine, onions , persimmon, pineapple, pumpkin seeds, raspberries, sea salt, seaweed, spirulina, sweet potato, tangerine, umebosha plums, taro root, vegetable juices, watermelon.

Moderately alkaline foods:

Read also: Proper nutrition for dry skin

apricots, arugula, asparagus, bunchy tea, beans (fresh green), broccoli, cantaloupe, carob, carrots, apples, cashews, chestnuts, citrus fruits, dandelion, dandelion tea, blackberry, endive, garlic, ginger (fresh), ginseng tea, kohlrabi, Kenyan pepper, grapefruit, pepper, herbal tea, kombucha, passion fruit, kelp, kiwi, olives, parsley, mango, parsnip, peas, raspberries, soy sauce, mustard, spices, sweet corn, turnips.

Low alkaline foods:

sour apples, pears, apple cider vinegar, almonds, avocado, bell peppers, blackberries, brown rice vinegar, cabbage, cauliflower, cherries, eggplant, ginseng, green tea, herbal tea , honey, leeks, nutritional yeast, papaya, radish, mushrooms, peach, pickles, potatoes, pumpkin, rice syrup, rutabaga.

Low alkaline foods:

alfalfa sprouts, avocado oil, beets, Brussels sprouts, blueberries, celery, cilantro, banana, coconut oil, cucumber, currants, fermented vegetables, flaxseed oil, baked milk, ginger tea, coffee grapes, hemp oil, lettuce, oats, olive oil, quinoa, raisins, zucchini, strawberries, sunflower seeds, tahini, turnips, umeboshi vinegar, wild rice.

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• Oxidizing products

Read also: How legs can indicate serious diseases

Very weakly oxidizing foods:

goat cheese, amaranth, brown rice, coconut, curry, dried fruits, beans , figs, grape seed oil, honey, coffee, maple syrup, pine nuts, rhubarb, sheep cheese, canola oil, spinach, beans, zucchini.

Low oxidizing products:

black tea, almond oil, tofu, goat milk, balsamic vinegar, buckwheat, Swiss chard, cow’s milk, sesame oil, tomatoes.

Moderately oxidizing products:

barley, peanuts, basmati rice, coffee, corn, mustard, nutmeg, oat bran, pecan, pomegranate, prunes.

Strongly oxidizing products:

artificial sweeteners, barley, brown sugar, cocoa, hazelnuts, hops, soy, sugar, salt, walnuts, white bread, cottonseed oil, white vinegar, wine, yeast.

Also, proponents of the alkaline diet claim that certain foods are excellent at preventing the development of cancer.

• TOP-10 products to be consumed as cancer prevention:

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Read also: Products containing vitamin B12

Lemon, despite its sour taste, is almost the most alkaline product. Alkaline dieters recommend starting every day with a glass of lemon water.

Cucumber is an alkaline product that helps to quickly normalize the digestion process and neutralize the acidic environment. It is also useful for improving the condition of the facial skin.

Eating radishes helps to normalize intestinal motility, lowers cholesterol levels, activates metabolic processes, improves the activity of the cardiovascular system and helps fight skin diseases. It is most useful to eat it neat – not in salads.

Celery is also an alkaline product.It is able to slow down the aging process, improve water-salt metabolism, stimulate the secretion of gastric juice and normalize blood sugar. Both the root and the leaves of celery contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential oils.

Garlic is another alkaline and very useful product. It can be eaten both in its pure form – or seasoned with it, and we all know how spicy it gives food.

Another irreplaceable alkaline product is beets. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber.By eating beets, you can slow down the aging process and prevent cancer.

Avocado, which is often referred to as a weakly alkaline food, perfectly balances the acid-base balance. It is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and monounsaturated fatty acids that support the cardiovascular system. Also, this outlandish green fruit has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.

Melon has a pH value of 8.5. Its consumption is recommended for urolithiasis, kidney disease and colds.However, many nutritionists recommend not mixing the melon with other foods – but eating it as a separate dish.

Watermelons are also very healthy due to their high fiber and water content. And besides, they are an alkaline product.

Banana is an excellent source of energy, and it also contains a huge amount of pectin and starch, which have a beneficial effect on the digestive system. And due to their low protein and salt content, bananas are very beneficial for those suffering from kidney disease.Plus, bananas improve your mood.

Chicory is a valuable alkaline product, which is often used as a substitute for coffee. Chicory contains inulin, which lowers blood sugar levels. And pectin, which is rich in chicory, helps to satisfy hunger and satisfy appetite.

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Who used alkaline foods for treatment and what is the Pegano diet

The principle of dividing foods into oxidizing and alkaline, among others, was successfully used in his method of treating psoriasis by the American doctor John Pegano.For patients with eczema and psoriasis, he made a special diet, in the “complex” with which certain requirements must be met – healthy sleep, playing sports, consuming a sufficient amount of pure water and … good mood . The scientist believes that negative emotions by themselves can cause acidification of the body.

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• Products not recommended by John Pagano:

Berries and fruits : strawberries, strawberries (citrus fruits – for psoriatic arthritis).

Vegetables : all nightshades – tomatoes, tobacco, eggplant, peppers, potatoes, paprika.

Cereals: White bread and all products made with white flour.

Fish: anchovies, herring, salmon, caviar, crustaceans (crabs, lobsters, shrimps), shellfish (mussels, oysters, scallops, squid), crustacean sauces, fish baked in batter or breadcrumbs, fried, pickled or smoked.

Poultry : fatty poultry (duck, goose), poultry skin, fried, smoked, baked with a lot of spices, in batter or breadcrumbs, not boiled.

Meat : beef, pork, veal and everything made from them: hamburgers, sausages, sausages, ham, sausages, entrails (heart, kidneys, brains, liver, etc.), included in one meal with lamb starchy foods.

Dairy Products: All dairy products with a high fat content.

Yeast or yeast-based products.

Coffee : no more than 3 cups a day (in case of strong addiction), only black decaffeinated.

Miscellaneous: All fried foods, pizza, alcohol, sweet cereals, vinegar, pickles, smoked meats, hot spices, coconut, palm oil.

• Criticism of the alkaline diet

The 20/80 approach to nutrition has been challenged by the British Dietetic Association (BDA). Her experts believe that the body maintains a certain pH level regardless of nutrition. Experts from Britain believe that the effect of an alkaline diet will be only if sweets, alcohol, saturated fats and other foods that are traditionally considered “harmful” are completely eliminated from the diet.

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TOP-5 habits that healthy people can borrow from alkaline diets to keep youth and health

1. Drink lemon water every morning

Juice of 1/3 lemon, added to 300-500 milliliters warm water and drunk on an empty stomach, gently awakens and activates the digestive organs, hydrates, delicately alkalizes and neutralizes excess acids. It is also important to remember that doctors recommend drinking 6-8 glasses of pure water a day.

2. There are more alkalizing products

Recognizing them, as we have seen, is easy. In addition, they are often included in the TOP of healthy foods and the composition of health diets. A small selection of healthy foods that should make up 80 percent of your diet: spinach, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, celery, cucumbers, lettuce, zucchini, cabbage, greens, pumpkin, peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, peas, all nuts (except peanuts and cashews) and seeds. Alkalizing fruits include citrus fruits, watermelon, and avocado.Sprouts, products with chickpeas and sesame seeds (tahina, hummus), all herbs (basil, dill, parsley, mint, ginger, cilantro, etc.) are very useful for alkalizing the body.

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3. There are as few acidifying products as possible

We also all know them “by sight”: sugar, chocolate (except for pure cocoa beans, dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content), milk and dairy products, meat, Caffeinated foods, wheat (excluding sprouts or shoots), saturated fats, trans fats.It is also worth minimizing the consumption of peanuts and cashews, soda, alcohol, ice cream, white rice, pasta. In addition, it is worth saying goodbye to the “friends” of deadlines – fast food, cigarettes and energy drinks.

4. Add spinach to dishes

2-3 handfuls of very “alkaline” spinach will enrich your meal or drink with a portion of vitamins K and A, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper and folic acid. Also spinach can be deliciously cooked as a separate dish, for example, by stewing it with spices.

5. Season salads with linseed oil

If you are not an adherent of soaking flaxseeds and consuming them in the morning – choose a less “laborious option“ – add flaxseed oil to your meals. The recommended daily serving of flaxseed oil is 2-3 tablespoons. They can be used to season salads, soups and hot dishes. And for a great, fiber-rich smoothie, flax seeds ground in a coffee grinder are best.

6. Use herbs more often

Make homemade dressings with herbs – infuse linseed or hemp oil on garlic, rosemary, lemon, using spices for every taste.This “alkalizing” mixture is easy – chopped spices and herbs just need to be poured with oil and infused for a couple of days.

Earlier we wrote about how to make a balanced vegetarian diet.

90,000 what kind of soil does strawberry like, features of preparation, ways to increase fertility, advice for novice gardeners

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To grow a high-quality strawberry crop, you need to create the maximum conditions for the plant.One of the main ingredients for success is a soil suitable for all parameters. What characteristics should the soil for strawberries have is the topic of today’s article.

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Which soil does strawberries like acidic or alkaline?

The acidity of the soil will determine how well the culture will develop, whether it will be susceptible to diseases, whether there is enough nutrition for full ripening.

Did you know? The most artsy strawberry dessert worth $ 1.4 milliondollars are served in the USA, in a New Orleans restaurant. The highlight of the dessert is the accompanying pink diamond jewelry.

A small comparison of indicators will help to determine which soils are preferable for strawberries:

• pH 3-4 – strongly acidic soil, in which there is a scanty content of nitrogen, potassium, boron and phosphorus. And these are the substances that are needed throughout the growing season. In such a land, there is an increased content of aluminum, iron, manganese.An excess of these minerals reduces the ability of the cells of the root system to absorb already scarce nutrition;
• pH 7-8 – slightly alkaline soil is characterized by a lack of phosphorus, but if it is constantly replenished with the help of fertilizing, then there is a lack of zinc and copper, which leads to chlorosis;
• pH 8-9 – an increased alkaline reaction is characterized by a lack of nitrogen and phosphorus, an excess of copper, manganese, zinc. This factor slows down the development of the plant, leads to curling of the foliage.

The conclusion suggests itself: for good development of strawberries, a slightly acidic earth or with a neutral reaction is needed. In weakly acidic soils, the amount of necessary elements is close to the ideal composition (in a neutral environment it is optimal), with the help of top dressing, the culture receives everything it needs. In addition, in slightly acidic and neutral soil, the vital activity of beneficial microorganisms is best manifested. Ideal acidity parameters for berries in the pH range 5.5–6.5.

No less important is the structure of the soil for strawberries and their carrying capacity. Loose sandstones and heavy clay soils are equally unsuitable. Nutritious chernozem with proper feeding, for example, mulching with needles, will become an ideal soil. But such lands are not everywhere.

Suitable in composition, “correct soil” are the following lands:

• sandy loam – quickly evaporates moisture without forming a crust on the surface, perfectly permits air and water deep into, light;
• loamy – fertile enough, perfectly permeates and retains moisture, loose, permits heat and air.

Soil preparation for spring planting

A new, previously unused site is prepared in 1-2 years. Together with deep digging and cleaning from weeds, stones, large roots or branches, if necessary, the earth is deoxidized. For this, it is best to add wood ash (hardwood) or dolomite flour, which is rich in magnesium.

Application rates, depending on the indicator – 300-600 g of substance per square meter.Sand is introduced into heavy soil, about 2 kg / m²; sandy soil is made heavier by the introduction of black soil, peat (up to 8 kg / m²).

Seat selection

The area for planting strawberries must be protected from drafts and at the same time open to sunlight. Along the perimeter, high bushes and trees that cast a shadow on the future planting are not desirable. The place should be level, a small slope is allowed, but not a lowland, where melt and rain water accumulates. The location of groundwater is below 2 m from the surface, which will keep the root system from decay.

Important! Do not plant garden berries after garden crops such as vegetables of the nightshade family: they leave spores of many diseases in the soil.

Methods for soil disinfection

The soil, as it is used, tends to accumulate microorganisms, including those harmful to crops. Insects and their larvae often hibernate in it, therefore disinfection of the earth is one of the primary tasks of the gardener.

Chemical

Chemical preparations, for the most part, contain components harmful to strawberries, therefore, the most gentle means are used.

Effective use of such means:

• TMTD (fungicide) is not dangerous for plants, therefore it can be used before direct planting. Destroys pathogens of root rot, phytophthora;
• copper sulfate is used once every five years, since copper accumulates in the soil, and its excess negatively affects the development of plants. The remedy is effective against most fungal diseases;
• “Rovral” (fungicide) is safe for the plant, so it can be placed in the planting hole.Protects berry bushes from the defeat of various kinds of fungi.

Important! Together with pathogenic bacteria, beneficial microorganisms die under the influence of aggressive chemicals, therefore, after disinfection, it is necessary to restore the fertility of the earth.

Biological

For safe disinfection, biological preparations containing strains of bacteria that produce antibiotics that destroy pathogenic microorganisms are used.Therefore, they are used for soil disinfection and in the treatment of plants at any stage of development.

Among these drugs:

• “Alirin-B”;
• “Baktofit”;
• “Gamair”;
• Fitosporin-M.

Agrotechnical

In addition to the fact that during the autumn digging the soil is manually cleaned of plant residues, repellent plants are planted in the area between the rows, repelling insects, which are themselves pests and carry pathogens on themselves.

The list of such plants is huge, the most famous of them are:

• marigolds;
• nasturtium;
• tansy;
• wormwood;
• garlic.

Another method, rather lengthy, but effective and safe:

1. The land on the site, which has been used for 3-5 years, is dug out in layers.
2. Layers of soil are stacked in piles, treated with slurry.
3. For about 3-5 years, the earth rests with regular shoveling of layers, removal of germinated weeds.
4. During this time, spores of many diseases, such as rot (of various types), perish in the soil, seeds of weed plants perish.

Fertilizing the soil before planting

In the spring, before planting the plants, the area prepared in autumn is fertilized with a mixture of organic and mineral substances (per m²):

• humus – 6 kg;
• potassium sulfate – 120 g;
• superphosphate – 100 g.

After digging with feeding, the plot is leveled and the beds are prepared.As the bushes grow, peat mulch is useful for strawberries.

Formation of beds

In the case of ordinary ridges, they are formed in the direction from north to south: thus, all the bushes will be evenly illuminated during the day. A distance of up to 70 cm is left between the rows, between the bushes 20–40 cm (depending on the strength of growth).

In small areas, to save usable space, create tiered beds. For example, from natural stone: is practical, durable and will serve as a decoration.

Ways to increase soil fertility

One of the main factors of fertility is the observance of crop rotation, since there are crops that deplete the soil, and, on the contrary, improve its quality, such as legumes and cereals. In addition, it is advisable to practice mixed planting, that is, to plant plants of different families next to each other.

Annual application for digging organic matter (manure, droppings, humus, compost) saturates the soil for future planting with almost all the necessary substances.

It is useful to sow the area with green manure, which improves the quality of the land. Grasses, with a long stem root system, loosen the soil, increase its ability to absorb moisture and allow air to pass through. After mowing, green residues are usually embedded in the soil.

The most effective means of restoring fertility is vermicompost. This type of organic matter contains worms, which, as food, absorb the simplest fungi and microbes. And in return, enzymes are released into the soil that inhibit pathogenic microorganisms.In addition, earthworms loosen the soil, improving its resistance to water and wind erosion.

From time to time the land should be “fallow”, rest from planting. This does not mean that the site is left empty and no work is carried out. To restore nutrients, you need to regularly feed the soil with organic matter.

Tips for beginner gardeners

If the composition of the soil on your site leaves much to be desired, it is possible to “prepare” the soil with your own hands.

Operating sequence:

1. The top layer, 8–10 cm, is removed from the forest podzolic soil.
2. Several layers are folded into a 100 × 80 cm pile.
3. Before laying, each layer is abundantly moistened.
4. The collar is tightly closed with a foil, making several holes in it for air access.
5. The temperature rises under the polyethylene shelter, causing all microorganisms and plant residues in the soil to “burn”.
6. After 3 months, the composition of the earth layers in the pile becomes ideal for growing sweet and aromatic berries.

Did you know? The record weight of strawberries was recorded in 1983 in the USA. The mass of berries grown by a local farmer was 231 g.

Having properly prepared the soil for planting crops, the gardener will receive an excellent harvest. However, one should not forget about the timely care of strawberries.

Acidic or oxidizing products

These are food products that, when broken down in the body, give an acidic reaction, shifting the acid-base balance towards acidification. Sour foods (oxidizing), of course, can be eaten, but observing the condition: the percentage of acidic and alkaline foods in the daily diet should be 50/50. If you are highly acidic, then 2o / 80 (acidic / alkaline) daily ration.

Women especially need to monitor the pH of the body, because only in an acidic (acidified) environment such terrible diseases as cancer of the uterus, breast, blood, etc., myoma, fibroadenoma, infertility, etc. develop.p.

The same notorious cellulite is the problem of excessive consumption of acidic food , the problem of acidification of the body, (i.e., when all excess body acids accumulate in adipose tissue, where the acidity limit is greatest). Many, not knowing this, try to fight him with all kinds of massages, which is practically useless. Because, by physical impact on acidified adipose tissue, you drive acids back into muscle tissue, which leads to intoxication of the body (pain in the body, drowsiness).If you tolerate the massage well, then your pH is more or less okay.

Yes, and also, for your information: as soon as the body (in adipose tissue and intercellular fluid) is busting for acids, the lymphatic system turns on, which seeks to release all this outward (hence the runny nose, leucorrhoea, pus, phlegm, sweat). In this situation, deodorant is your worst enemy. You do not need to use it all the time, it is very harmful. If you don’t sweat, poisons and toxins will remain inside. Follow the logic!

So, let’s go directly to the list of very acidic food :

• Meat ,
• Fish ,
• Egg (chicken, quail, etc.)
• Butter ,
• Bread (especially white, yeast),
• Refined deodorized vegetable oil (odorless),
• Nuts (all except 9013 almonds) All sour vegetables (tomatoes, eggplants – when processed, they become sour products by reaction in the body, etc.),
• Fermented milk products (sour cream, yogurt, kefir, etc.),
• Sour garden berries (gooseberries, cranberries, lingonberries, currants, strawberries, etc.)
• Sour greens (sorrel, rhubarb, onion, garlic, etc.),
• All freshly squeezed juices sour to taste – fresh (orange, cranberry, lingonberry, blueberry, apricot, apple, etc.) etc.),
• Sugar (any foods to which sugar is added, even if they were alkaline foods, become acidic foods ).

For example, freshly squeezed or freshly cut lemon has an alkaline reaction (its potential = -50 / -100), when sugar is added (after 10 minutes) it becomes an oxidizing product.

• Legumes (peas, beans, lentils),
• Chocolate and chocolate products ,
• Dried fruits (everything except dates). Despite their enormous benefits to the body, are acidic foods . But this does not mean at all that dried fruits need to be removed from the diet, on the contrary, they must be present in the daily diet without fail. But it is very important to compensate for the oxidizing reaction they give with alkaline foods.
• Cakes, pastries ,
• Creams ,
• Honey. Although it is an acidifying product, it has many beneficial properties. However, I would especially like to note its beneficial effect on the elasticity, firmness and color of the skin, of course, botoxa injections cannot be compared, but with constant external use and consumption, the effect is obvious.
• Cheese ,
• Yogurt ,
• Seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels, crabs, etc.), are also oxidizing foods,
• Wild berries (blueberries, strawberries).

This list includes the most common by reaction acidic food used in the daily diet.

Remember, for a woman (girl) the only way to live a healthy life is to keep an alkaline diet!

Based on the blog of Anna Struzhkova “Pump up – be healthy”

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Alkaline food

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13 “alkaline” products. Healthy food – exclude from the diet … | by Insta_Info

The division of foods into acidic and alkaline has been around for a long time. The first to draw attention to this division was the German scientist R. Berg. Studying these products and their effect on the human body, Berg proved that the human body must maintain a normal alkaline environment. For this, it is necessary that a person eats one part of acidic food and two parts of alkaline food per day. The optimal alkaline environment is able to provide vital functions , gives energy and strength.Excess acid in the body contributes to premature aging and disease.

We understand that it is very important to eat right. And for this it is not at all necessary to adhere to some kind of strict diet, it is enough just to exclude unhealthy foods from the diet and include healthy ones in it!

1. Melon. Delicious yellow melons contain a lot of alkali and fiber, therefore they have a beneficial effect on the internal organs. In addition, the melon is 92% water, so it is perfectly digestible.
2. Buckwheat porridge. Boiled buckwheat contains a large amount of alkali and other nutrients that strengthen the cardiovascular system. Also, eating buckwheat gives a boost of vivacity for the whole day and helps to stay in a good mood.
3. Olive oil p. High quality olive oil added to salads or other dishes has an excellent effect not only on the digestive system, but also makes the skin firm and healthy.Olive oil also contains a lot of monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E, which lower cholesterol levels and strengthen the walls of blood vessels.
4. Linen. These small brown grains contain fiber, vitamin E and alkali. Flaxseed is useful for those looking to lose weight, as it removes toxins from the body. Flax seeds also contain a lot of potassium, selenium, vitamin B and lecithin, which are important for people suffering from heart problems, kidney problems and increased stress.
5. Banana. Just like flax seeds, bananas are high in potassium and alkali. If you are suffering from heartburn, then it is enough to eat one banana, and it will stop. Bananas also have a positive effect on the nervous system.
6. Avocado. Avocados are full of monounsaturated fats that strengthen the heart and blood vessels. Vitamins B2 and E protect against viruses and anemia, while alkali and potassium help with digestive and heart problems. Avocados contain a lot of calcium, which is very important for fragile bones.
7. Berries. Virtually all berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, currants and others) contain antioxidants that neutralize increased acidity in the stomach. Also, the beneficial substances of berries help with depression.
8. Carrot. Everyone knows that carrots contain beta-carotene, which is very beneficial for the eyes. But carrots are also full of fiber, which helps with constipation and other intestinal problems. With cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure, you should also eat carrots.
9. Garlic. In addition to strengthening the immune system, garlic lowers cholesterol and cleanses blood vessels. Surprisingly, the allicin in garlic prevents the formation of cancer cells and significantly reduces the growth of existing tumors.
10. Broccoli. Broccoli is rich in protein and amino acids, which remove toxins from the body. Iodine, which is part of broccoli, has a positive effect on the endocrine system and the thyroid gland. And dietary fiber and fiber remove toxins from the body.
11. Grapes. Eating grapes significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Grapes are useful for arterial hypertension and problems with hematopoiesis. Many grape varieties contain high levels of vitamin C and tannins, which are incredibly beneficial for the immune system.
12. Lemons. Oddly enough, but lemons are full of alkali, which helps with acid-base imbalance of the intestines. A little lemon added to the water helps with colic and cramps, as well as inflammatory diseases.
13. Seaweed. Algae is useful for people who have a high risk of cancer and anemia. And when treating cancer, consuming seaweed, which contains alginic acid salts, protects against the effects of radiation. In addition, algae are very beneficial for pregnant women.

By consuming these products, you can get rid of heartburn, drowsiness and skin problems, as well as increase the level of immunity.

preparation in spring, what kind of soil strawberries like

The size of the suburban area is limited.Over the summer, I want to grow all the vegetables needed for the family. You don’t need a lot of space to indulge yourself with strawberries all summer. To get a good berry harvest, you need to understand what kind of soil strawberries like . In the fall, make several beds, in the spring, plant them with different varieties of berries.

What kind of soil is suitable for planting berry bushes?

Strawberries grow in one place for more than one year, the period depends on the variety. Some are 2 years old, other varieties bear fruit in one place for up to 10 years. The composition of the land is important for planting berry bushes. .

The soil under the strawberry patch should be light in texture and well moistened

You can definitely tell what kind of soil the strawberry does not like. The first criterion by which to evaluate is the mechanical composition. The types of soils for this feature are shown in the table.

Strawberries do not like sandy and clayey soils.Roots dry out, overheat on sandy soils. In clayey, growth slows down due to lack of oxygen and moisture. According to the mechanical composition, soils are suitable for growth, development of roots: loamy, sandy loam .

An important soil characteristic for plants is acidity. Soils are not suitable for a plant: acidic, alkaline. Ideal for neutral, in which the acidity is normal or slightly acidic – PH not lower than 5.5.

How to prepare the land for planting strawberries?

First of all, we examine our site, determine what kind of land is on it.We take a small lump of earth and check it for plasticity, correlating the result with the above table.

A correctly selected plot will allow not only a high yield, but also provide an opportunity to prevent many diseases

We begin to prepare the soil for garden strawberries in the fall. Good predecessors of garden strawberries are considered :

1. Beetroot.
2. Bow.
3. Garlic.
4. Parsley.
5. Salad.
6. Carrots.
7. Grain crops.

After the autumn harvesting of vegetables, it is necessary to prepare the ridge for the spring planting of strawberries . The first step is to remove the weeds. If the soil is acidic, lime it. We add about 20 kg of sand, lime and organic fertilizers to the peat area per square meter.

It is necessary to add organic fertilizers (humus, manure, compost) and peat to the sandy and sandy loam. The difference in volume is that more nutrients need to be added to the sandy soil.

In the fall, mineral fertilizers are applied to the soil of any composition. Well restore the nutritional value of the earth :

1. Ammophos (nitrogen 11%, phosphorus 50%).
2. Diammophos (nitrogen 20%, phosphorus 50%).
3. Nitrophoses (nitrogen 23%, phosphorus 17%).
4. Nitroammofoska (nitrogen 17%, phosphorus and potassium).

Ammophos

Diammofoska

Nitroammofoska

Nitrophoska

Organic and mineral fertilizers are scattered over the entire area of ​​the ridge. The soil is dug onto a shovel bayonet .

Ways to increase soil fertility

Organic matter is regularly needed to increase soil fertility. Over the summer, you can prepare the required amount of compost. The advice of an experienced gardener will come in handy.

Rapid composting in bags

Start composting with the arrival of spring . Purchase 120 liter black garbage bags. For quick compost, weeds, nettles, chamomile, clover are suitable.The exception is wheatgrass.

Compost can be used for digging to improve soil composition or mulch the soil around bushes.

Grass must be crushed, covered in layers in a bag. Sprinkle the layers with wood ash. Put the bags in the sun. By August, all the grass will be wet and the package will contain ready-to-use compost . It can be used for the autumn digging of land for strawberries.

DIY strawberry beds and beds

When planting strawberries in the garden, a single-line or multi-line planting scheme is used. Strong bushes are planted from each other at a distance of 35-40 cm, undersized varieties – 20 cm . The row spacings are wide – 70 cm.

Strawberry planting scheme

You can plant strawberries on beautifully decorated ridges. Because of the economy of space, tiered beds are practiced. Let’s consider the device of some of them.

Stone tier beds

Stone tier beds can be made of any shape :

• round;
• square;
• triangular;
• rectangular.

Stone bed for strawberries

It is good to grow ampel varieties of strawberries on tiered beds. First of all, during the construction of the ridge, the site is leveled. Natural stone is harvested :

• limestone;
• sandstone;
• diabase.

In masonry, hewn stones resembling a brick look better.

On the ground, markings are made for the future ridge. A trench 30-40 cm deep is being dug along the perimeter .Fill it 2/3 of the height with crushed stone, 1/3 – with sand, ram. Lay out a wall of natural stone. Use cement mortar for bonding or use dry masonry technology.

Mark the contours of the 2nd and 3rd tiers. Each subsequent one must be already the previous one. Lay out the walls for tiers 2 and 3. The height of each subsequent tier must be higher than the previous one.

Round stone multi-level garden bed

Fill the ridge with fertile soil after the cement has dried.You can plant strawberries. Advantage of this ridge :

• decorative view of ridge, can serve as a garden decoration;
• good drainage ;
• the ridge is filled with clean, fertile soil, which reduces the likelihood of diseases ;
• strawberries easy to care for .

It will take time to build the ridge. Its manufacture is rather laborious.

Multi-tiered beds made of wooden planks

A simple solution – a square, multi-tiered bed of wooden planks. For its manufacture, planed, edged pine boards with a section of 30 × 140 mm are needed . For connecting corners – bars 50 × 50 mm or 40 × 40 mm.

Multi-tiered strawberry bed made of wood

Mark the dimensions of the first tier. Collect the bottom box. The boards in the corners are fixed to the bars with self-tapping screws. The entire area of ​​the first tier is filled with fertile soil and rammed. The following boxes are made in the same way, but smaller. Width for landing must be at least 35 cm .

For the durability of the ridge and to improve the decorative appearance of the board structure, impregnate with a protective primer, paint.

Advantages of the flower bed design :

• space savings;
• receiving a larger yield from a unit of area ;
• strawberries suffer less from infections and pests ;
• multi-tiered ridge of boards – decorative elements of the garden .

Disadvantages of multi-tiered landing method :

• in cold climates requires shelter for the winter ;
• in the heat, frequent watering is needed, the earth dries up quickly .

Tire beds

Is it possible on an area of ​​1.2 sq. m of your garden plot to plant 120 strawberry bushes? It turns out you can. For the construction of such a vertical ridge , you will need 8 old tire covers and a plastic pipe with holes made in it for irrigation (diameter 5.5 mm).

Flowerbed pyramid for strawberries from car tires

The diameter of the pipe must match the diameter of the irrigation hose or adapter. Prepare fertile land. Choose a sunny location.

Cut from 12 to 16 holes measuring 6 × 10 cm in each tire circumferentially. Tires are stacked alternately on top of each other .

Plant strawberry bushes in the holes of the tires. Sprinkle the roots tightly with earth. Pour through the slots. Place the pipe in the center. Its height should be slightly more than the height of the ridge. Put the irrigation hose on the pipe.

Advantages of such a ridge:

• space savings;
• absence of weeds ;
• easy to water and take care of;
• berries are clean , do not get sick.

There are also disadvantages. To prevent the strawberries from freezing in winter, the ridge will have to be packed in several layers (with straw, reeds, insulation).

Slate beds

The slate remaining after construction can be used for the construction of a strawberry ridge. If there is a polycarbonate greenhouse – solve two problems at once:

• insulate the perimeter of the greenhouse ;
• Build a comfortable ridge .

Slate strawberry bed

Dig a trench in the ground.Its depth is 25-35 cm. Cut slate 70 cm high . At the bottom of the trench, throw cut branches, pour plant residues. You can add wood ash there. Cover the ridge with fertile soil, consisting of garden soil, humus, peat, sand.

Advantages of such a ridge :

• easy to water and care for strawberries;
• moisture retains well in the soil;
• in spring the earth warms up quickly .

Slate fencing is classified as a low-ecological structure. Its appearance is not aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

Strawberry yield depends on the quality of the soil by almost 50%. Watering and feeding, carried out according to the scheme, serve as additional food . Time and money spent on soil preparation will return in the form of a useful berry.

How to enlarge strawberries

Often gardeners complain that strawberries (strawberries) are sour.Usually this phenomenon occurs in years with lingering spring rains. This year it does not threaten, because despite the past rains, the soil is dry, at a depth it is simply dry, so the sweetness will completely depend on our watering.

Unfortunately, rain is not the only reason for sour berries. The lack of light also greatly affects the taste of the berry. The strawberry bed should be well lit throughout the day (at least 9 hours).

Strawberries love slightly acidic soil. If your soil is acidic, add limestone for digging between rows, if alkaline, add peat or compost.

Acid berries can be picked up in cramped conditions if bushes are planted at a distance of less than 30 cm in a row. They will shade each other and interfere with the development of neighbors.

Much depends on the age of the bushes. Bushes older than three to five years practically do not bear fruit, and if they do bear fruit, then they are small and sour. Therefore, the planting must be renewed every three to four years.

In order for the bushes to take root better and gain strength for abundant fruiting, it is recommended to cut off the peduncles in the first year if the plants were planted in spring. Then next year they will give a bountiful harvest, and the berries will be especially large.

THERE IS A LOT OF BATTLE, BUT NO HARVEST?

This situation happens if you overfeed strawberries with manure or poultry droppings. The leaves and whiskers of the bushes will give a lot, and there will be practically no fruiting. Therefore, most often the rows are fed with ash or mineral fertilizers.

Berries missed during harvest can lead to the appearance of weed varieties. They have small berries or none at all, but the bushes are powerful and there are so many mustaches that they will survive any sort of strawberry.

Poor resistance to weather conditions and pests can also be the reason for the production of small berries. To reduce their harmful effect, it is necessary to dig up the aisles, destroy weeds and carry out protective spraying before flowering and after harvesting.

The appearance of gnarled berries on a bush may be a signal that the plant has suffered from spring or winter frosts.Such plants need special care: regular watering and feeding, spraying with stimulants.

STRAWBERRY IN LARGE

To make the berries especially large, during flowering, spray the plants with a mixture of urea (100 g), boric acid (510 g) and zinc sulfate (3-5 g) per 10 liters of water. Repeat spraying after two weeks.

Watering has a very large effect on the size of the berries. Water the strawberries several times a week. It is useful to mulch the aisles.Then you can water less often. It is very useful to arrange drip irrigation for strawberries. It does less soil compaction and saves time and water.

It is advisable to apply fertilizer three times a year: in spring, autumn and summer.

In the first period, it is advisable to feed the bushes by foliar and sub-root methods. It is advisable to carry out procedures from the second to the third month of spring with nitrogen-containing fertilizers in order to improve the root system and create a favorable atmosphere for flowering and the appearance of ovaries.

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