With the oncoming trend of an alkaline diet that even some notable celebrities are endorsing, there is a lot of talk about which foods are alkalizing and which are not. Fruits, in general, tend to be alkalizing, but some fruits are more alkalizing than others. This ratio cannot be understood with just a glance of the eye, though, so we’ve compiled a list of the best alkaline fruits you can try at home! They include a good variety of alkaline fruits, giving you an idea of what to indulge in and eat for a balanced diet.
Outline
What are Alkaline Fruits?
To understand in better detail what is the meaning of alkaline foods, let’s first look at the pH scale. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, indicating how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A neutral pH is 7, and anything above 8 is considered alkaline. But with food, things are different. When we talk about food, foods with a pH above 2.0 are generally considered alkaline while those below pH 2.0 are acidic.
Alkaline meals are essential for maintaining a healthy pH balance and they also aid in the reduction of acidity and acid reflexes. Most fruits are alkalizing, with a few exceptions like cranberries, plums, and prunes.
11 Best Alkaline Fruits
1. Lemon
Raw Lemons have a pH of 2 and are rich in vitamin C. But, once we consume lemon juice, it becomes fairly alkaline, and once metabolized by our body pH of lemon reaches 7. They are also a great detoxifying agent and help to flush out toxins from the body, consequently promoting healthy digestion.
You can consume lemons in the form of lemon water or add them to your salads for a tangy kick. Lemon juice also contains antioxidants, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. It has also been found to prevent the formation of some types of kidney stones.
2. Avocado
Avocados are a versatile fruit that you can use in both sweet and savory dishes. With a pH of 8, they are rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These fruits are known to improve blood lipid profiles and help reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, they help to regulate blood sugar levels and are a good source of energy. Avocados can be consumed in a number of ways, including in salads, on toast (a personal favorite), or simply as is with a bit of salt and pepper.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is a refreshing fruit that has a pH of 9. It is made up of 92% water and is a good source of vitamins A, B6, and C. The rich red color of this fruit comes from an antioxidant named lycopene. Lycopene has been found to have several health benefits, including the reduction of inflammation, the prevention of heart disease, and the promotion of healthy skin. Watermelon is a great summer fruit, flexible enough to be used in smoothies, margaritas, juices, and salads.
4. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is a tart and juicy fruit with a pH of 4. It is rich in vitamins C and A, as well as fiber. This fruit has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of some types of cancer. Grapefruit juice has boosted weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing appetite. A glass of grapefruit juice a day may also help lower cholesterol levels. You can enjoy grapefruit as is, in a salad, or in a smoothie as well.
5. Pineapple
Pineapples are a delicious and juicy fruit, standing 5 on the pH scale. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory properties. This enzyme has been found to reduce pain and swelling in conditions like osteoarthritis and gout. Pineapples are also a good energy source and can help promote healthy digestion. Best eaten as is or in a smoothie, pineapple is a sweet and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of alkalizing foods.
6. Coconut water
Many people are only aware of coconuts as a source of oil, but coconut water is actually a refreshing and healthy drink. It has a pH of 5 and is rich in electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Coconut water has improved hydration, cardiovascular health, and digestion. Additionally, it may help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. You can find coconut water in most supermarkets or get it straight from the source by cracking open a fresh coconut.
7. Apples
Apples are a classic fruit with a pH of 5. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Apples have been found to reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and some types of cancer. This fruit also aids in weight loss and helps to regulate blood sugar levels. You can enjoy apples in a number of ways, including as a snack, in a salad, or in a smoothie. Our favorite has to be the apple pie!
8. Bananas
Bananas are sweet and creamy fruits with a standing of 6 on the pH scale. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. You can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer if you are consistent in consuming this fruit. They help to regulate blood sugar levels and promote healthy digestion. You can eat bananas as is, but they go very well with a glass of milk!
9. Apricots
Closely related to the peach, apricots are highly alkaline sweet, and tangy fruits with a pH of 7. These fruits have been found to improve blood lipid profiles and reduce the risk of heart disease. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, apricots are a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can eat them as is or add them to smoothies, yogurt bowls, or oatmeal.
10. Kiwi
Kiwis are tangy fruits with a pH of 8. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kiwis have been found to improve respiratory function and lower the risk of some types of cancer. This fruit is also suitable for digestion and can help to regulate blood sugar levels. They’re pretty famous these days because of yogurt bowls, but we like them best with just a pinch of salt.
11. Persimmon
Also known as the “divine fruit,” persimmons are highly alkalizing with a pH of 8. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Found to improve respiratory function and lower the risk of some types of cancer, this fruit is also suitable for digestion and can help to regulate blood sugar levels. You can eat them as is or add them to smoothies, yogurt bowls, or oatmeal.
There you have it! A list of some alkalizing fruits that help to maintain a healthy pH balance, promote healthy digestion, and reduce the risk of some chronic diseases. Be sure to include these foods in your diet to reap the benefits.
