10 Surprising Foods That Boost pH Levels Instantly

10 Surprising Foods That Boost Your Alkaline Levels Instantly

Boost pH Levels with These 10 Unexpected & Surprising Foods

I’ve been researching, writing and coaching folks to live the Alkaline Life for over 20+ years, and I know many people reading this (perhaps you!) have been with me for five, ten or more years.  You will have heard me talk about alkaline foods dozens of times, and the usual suspects roll off the tongue…spinach, kale, avocado, celery, cucumber…

But, what if I told you there is a secret army of alkaline soldiers that SO few people are using daily, but can not only bring awesome, delicious variety to your dishes, but also boost your pH significantly too?

That’s what today’s guide is all about. 

These ten high-alkaline foods are amazing, but rarely thought of when people think about making an alkaline meal.  Let’s change that.  Let’s get these foods into your regular repertoire so you have the extra options, flavours, and pH boosters.

They are delicious, make life much more convenient and easy, help make amazing meals even more amazing, and are often my go-to base for snacks, desserts, and more…and they are most-certainly SUPER alkaline!

What Makes These Foods Alkaline?

As a little refresher alkaline foods are those that help the body to balance the critical slightly alkaline pH level in the blood and other extracellular fluids (and maintain the pH of the organs too, slighly alkaline in the small intestine, slightly acidic in the large intestine and so on).   Note, it is not about making the body ‘more alkaline’ (read this guide for more on that).

These foods are rich in alkaline minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium, and other alkaline micronutrients, and generally contain higher levels of antioxidants too. The minerals are particularly important to the pH effect that the foods has on your body.  When metabolized, these minerals help to neutralize acids in the body, contributing to the body’s ongoing 24/7 requirement to keep a balanced pH.

It’s so important to note this: we are not trying to make the body more alkaline, we are simply trying to give the body the nutrients it needs to effortlessly maintain the delicate pH balances throughout the body.

And these foods do that in abundance.  So let’s get into them…

Ten Surprising Ways to Boost pH

1. Artichokes

Artichokes are a powerhouse of nutrients and a great addition to The Alkaline Life. They are particularly high in magnesium, potassium, and manganese, which help maintain the body’s pH balance. Artichokes also contain significant amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and folate, which support overall digestive health and boost the immune system. Additionally, they are rich in antioxidants, particularly cynarin and silymarin, which have been shown to support liver function and aid in detoxification processes, further helping to boost pH levels by relieving the stress on the body’s detoxification system.

How to Use: Steam or roast artichokes and enjoy them as a side dish, or add them to salads and dips for a nutrient boost.

2. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are tiny but mighty when it comes to their nutrient profile. They are exceptionally high in magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, all of which are essential for maintaining strong bones and an alkaline environment in the body. Chia seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Furthermore, their high fiber content aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for those looking to boost their vitality and pH levels.

How to Use: Add chia seeds to smoothies, coconut yogurt, or make a chia pudding by soaking them in almond or coconut milk for 10-15 minutes.  You can even try my Rapid Chia Detox Juice

3. Kohlrabi

Germany may have gone out of the Euro’s early, but at least they have kohlrabi.  Kohlrabi, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Its high potassium content helps regulate acid-base balance in the body, while vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. Kohlrabi also contains glucosinolates, compounds that have been shown to have cancer-preventive properties and are awesome for the immune system. Its unique combination of nutrients makes it a valuable addition to The Alkaline Life, supporting both immune function and digestive health, and with the potassium content it can really help boost pH levels.

How to Use: Slice kohlrabi into sticks for a crunchy snack, grate or shred to add it to salads, or roast it as a side dish (my favourite).

4. Amaranth

Amaranth is AWESOME, and we use it so much.  It is an ancient grain that is naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, so naturally forms part of many porridge, cereal, snack and really any meal where you might normally use a gluten-containing grain.

It is rich in magnesium, manganese, and iron, which are so important for maintaining energy levels, bone health, and metabolic function. Amaranth also contains high levels of protein and lysine, an essential amino acid that is often lacking in other grains. Its antioxidant content, including polyphenols and flavonoids, helps combat oxidative stress and supports overall cellular health, making it a beneficial food for those following The Alkaline Life to boost pH levels.

How to Use:  Cook amaranth as a porridge for breakfast, use it in salads, or incorporate it into soups and stews.

 5. Bok Choy

As one of the top fifteen ‘Powerhouse Fruits & Vegetables‘, bok choy (pak choi) is a leafy green vegetable that is particularly high in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, all of which are vital for maintaining an alkaline environment in the body. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and blood clotting. Bok choy contains glucosinolates and flavonoids, compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Its nutrient-dense profile and low-calorie content make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their alkaline diet and boost pH levels.

How to Use: Stir-fry bok choy with garlic and ginger, add it to soups, or use it as a base for salads, or simply add to your alkaline green juice or smoothie.

6. Pumpkin Seeds

We use these in everything, all of the time.  Why?  Pumpkin seeds super nutrient-dense, high in magnesium, zinc, and iron, three essential minerals for strong bones, immune function, and supporting red blood cell production. Pumpkin seeds also contain antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help protect against cellular damage and reduce inflammation. Their high healthy fat content, particularly omega-3, supports heart health, increases energy and boosts metabolism, making pumpkin seeds a valuable sneaky, surprising pH booster.

How to Use: Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on salads, non-dairy yogurt, or oatmeal, in chia pots, and enjoy them as a snack on their own (or with other nuts and seeds).

7. Zucchini (Courgette)

Zucchini, aka courgette,  is a versatile veggie that so many people skip…please don’t be one of them!  Don’t think of it as that watery, bitter, stodgy thing you used to have, boiled, as a kid.  There are so many awesome and creative ways to cook it, and unleash it’s deliciousness.  It is rich in potassium, magnesium, and manganese. These minerals play a crucial role in maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance and supporting metabolic processes. Zucchini is also high in vitamins A and C, which provide antioxidant benefits and support immune health. Its high water content and fiber make it awesome for hydrating and aiding digestion too.

How to Use:  Spiralize zucchini into noodles, create zoodle pasta, add it to stir-fries, or salads, bake it into breads and muffins.

8. Watercress

Watercress is a leafy green that is often overlooked but is incredibly nutrient-dense. It is high in calcium, magnesium, and iron, which are essential for bone health, energy production, and maintaining an alkaline balance. Watercress is also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help protect against oxidative stress and support immune function. Its peppery flavor and high nutrient content make it a great addition to salads and smoothies for those looking to boost their pH levels.

How to Use: Add watercress to salads, use it as a garnish for soups, or blend it into green smoothies.

9. Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are tiny seeds that pack a big nutritional punch. They are high in calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for bone health, immune function, and metabolic processes. Sesame seeds also contain lignans, which are antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against certain cancers. Their healthy fat content, including omega-6 fatty acids, supports heart health and overall well-being.

How to Use: Sprinkle sesame seeds on salads, stir-fries, or use them in baking and homemade granola.  Sesame seeds / tahini also form a part of many alkaline desserts including my Alkaline Salted Caramel Slice!

10. Buckwheat

Finally, buckwheat is one that I know a few of you use already, but there are a LOT of people who haven’t thought to…or don’t know how.   Buckwheat is a gluten-free grain that is rich in magnesium, manganese, and iron.  It is so easily used anywhere you’d use rice, cous cous, or other gluten-containing grains and cereals.  The mineral combination in buckwheat is incredible for energy production, maintaining strong bones, and supporting metabolic function. Buckwheat also contains high levels of rutin, a flavonoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its fiber content aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels, and it’s flavour and texture are just awesome.

How to Use: Use buckwheat flour in baking, cook buckwheat as a porridge, or add them to salads and soups.

Pick ONE and Get Started!

As with all of my coaching, and my whole philosophy (which you’ll see in The Alkaline Life book) you HAVE to keep it simple, and stick with my ‘baby steps’ approach.  Don’t try to do it all at once.  Pick ONE of these foods to focus on this week.  Think through which seems easiest for you, intuitively, to add, based on the kinds of recipes you already regularly cook.

If you already cook stir-fry regularly during the week, you can add shredded kohlrabi or bok choi to this.  If you’re having a regular breakfast porridge or cereal, try throwing buckwheat in with your oats when cooking.

It is WAY easier to add good foods in to recipes you’re already making, rather than try to re-invent the wheel and replace them. 

Don’t overcomplicate.  Keep it simple.  And remember, living The Alkaline Life is all about enjoyment, simplicity, and delicious foods.

Enjoy,
Ross


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