How to Make Your Body More Alkaline

Have you heard of the 'Alkaline diet'? With many celebrity fans it might sound like another fad, but it's actually based on science which suggests that what we eat and how well we digest it has a huge impact on the rest of our health. Formulated by Austrian medical director Dr. Stephan Domenig, who drew upon the work of Dr Franz Xaver Mayr, the Alkaline diet focuses on treating illnesses in relation to digestive issues, as the digestive system is viewed as having an extremely important role in maintaining wellbeing, tissue function, inner health and even posture.

Frustrated with the lack of education about the importance of diet and digestion in health, Dr. Domenig wanted to treat the whole body rather than just the specific ailment of a patient, as a healthy, alkaline digestive system positively impacts the rest of the functions of the body, affecting energy levels, cravings and weight control. Dr Domenig states that poor eating habits, such as a diet that's too acidic, can lead to bad health, with the Alkaline diet designed to be a lifestyle plan rather than a fad diet. So what exactly does it mean to be 'alkaline'?

What does 'Alkaline' mean?

A neutral pH (potential of Hydrogen) of 7.4 on a scale of 0 to 14, is where the body functions best. On the pH scale, 0-7 is acidic, while 7-14 is alkaline. The foods we eat are broken down into acid and alkaline, and broadly speaking, most people lean towards being acidic, based on eating more acidic food than alkaline. This doesn't relate to the food itself, for example, lemons are acidic but are actually digested by the body to have an alkalising effect. Health professionals believe that high acidity pulls on important resources in the body, weakening the function of our bodies' systems and often causing or worsening inflammation. Aching joints, weight gain, carb and sugar cravings and brain fog are all symptoms of a high acidic diet. An alkaline diet is rich in vegetables and fruit, herbs, soybeans and tofu – more plants, less animal products. Over-eat sugar, alcohol, grains, meat, chicken or dairy and you're into higher acid territory.

Why should your body be Alkaline?

The body's pH level influences its health. Small things, from a runny nose, fatigue, or a skin break out could be the first sign that your body may be too acidic. Focusing on alkaline foods and supplements can bring your body into line – you may find you get fewer colds, improved energy and a faster metabolism. Increasing the alkaline levels in your body can also lead to a more balanced system – a trial undertaken by WelleCo found that when participants boosted their alkalinity levels with one of my personal favourite products, The Super Elixir Alkalising Greens, over 80% of participants said they had increased energy levels, woke up feeling refreshed, had better moods and sleep, plus better ability to relax and deal with stress.¹ Amazingly, they also said they had improved strength and posture!

Which products do I recommend for Alkalinity?

The Alkaline Cure Book
For anyone interested in switching to a more alkaline diet, the Alkaline Cure book by Dr Stephan Domenig contains a 14-day diet plan with 40 healthy recipes to help get you started. This alkaline-based diet plan has been devised to not only be delicious but also give you a boost of energy and vitality, as well as potentially help you lose weight. These pH balancing recipes have been specially designed to address health issues associated with high acidity levels, providing wholesome, nutritious meal ideas which can be enjoyed by the whole family.

WelleCo The Super Elixir Alkalising Greens
I can personally say that I find this supplement amazing for boosting energy levels and restoring balance to my body's nutrition and pH levels. Formulated with the help of nutritional doctor, Dr Simone Laubscher, the WelleCo Super Elixir Alkalising Greens supplement powder contains a potent blend of health-boosting vitamins and minerals, with 45 natural ingredients in total. This alkalising formula is designed to balance pH levels and contains key ingredients such as Pomegranate, Kelp, Turmeric, Aloe Vera, Horsetail and Dandelion as well as a mix of four probiotics to boost immunity, balance the gut and encourage good health and wellbeing. I add this to my green smoothie every day and it makes me feel so energised.

Grants Liquid Chlorophyll
Naturally alkaline and rich in leafy greens, the Grants Liquid Chlorophyll is a great internal tonic to help remove toxins and impurities and aid digestion. Made from Alfalfa concentrate, this cleansing and deodorising tonic is rich in vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids and helps to provide oxygen to the friendly bacteria in the gut. With a delicious spearmint taste, it makes a great addition to your water bottle, and can even be used as a mouthwash too!

Waters Co Ace 1.5L Alkaline Water Filter
The Waters Co Ace Bio Jug is a handy alkalising water filter which produces the best tasting water I've ever tried! This BPA-free filter jug reduces and removes chemicals, chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria and other impurities from your tap water, so you're only drinking pure, alkaline water. This re-mineralising filtration system combines multiple filters including Activated Coconut Shell Carbon to absorb impurities.

Source: ¹WelleCo.