How to Detoxify Acidity

Detoxification diets are based on the idea that people can cleanse their bodies of harmful chemicals by eating only healthy, non-toxic foods. One such diet emphasizes the toxicity of acid for humans and instructs dieters to alkalize their bodies to balance their pH levels. According to Dr. Robert Young, the body needs to be slightly alkaline, but most Americans eat primarily acidic foods 2. The body then wraps the acid in fat cells to protect the vital organs, causing weight gain, illness and low energy. Follow an alkalizing diet to detoxify acidity.

Eliminate acidic foods, such as red meat, dairy products, most fats and oils, wheat, processed foods, sugar and artificial sweeteners from your diet. Omit coffee, tea, soda, alcohol and fruit juice as well.

How to Raise Body pH Level Quickly

Learn More

Fill more than half of your plate with vegetables for meals. Vegetables are alkaline and help to balance your pH. They also add bulk to meals to replace the acidic foods you are avoiding.

Eat celery before or during every meal. Celery is highly alkaline and helps counteract the effect of any acid you eat.

How to Reduce Acid in Urine

Learn More

Eat grapefruit 15 minutes before breakfast. Its alkalizing effects offset the acidity of proteins and carbs you may eat later in the day.

Squeeze lemon or lime juice onto salads, into water and over rice. Despite their acidic taste, these juices actually have an alkalizing effect on the body.

Replace dairy products with rice, soy or almond milk products. Use these substitutes in cooking and baking, on cereal and as drinks.

Eat small amounts of lean meats such as turkey, chicken or fish. Avoid red meat or large quantities of animal products. However, your body does need protein each day so don't omit protein sources completely.

Include healthy fats to get enough calories per day. Avocado, raw nuts and raw seeds are good sources of omega-3 oils, which strengthen your heart and promote healthy skin and hair. Dress salads with olive oil or flax oil.

Use stevia as a sweetener instead of sugar or artificial sweeteners. Stevia is a natural sugar substitute that doesn't acidify the body.

Drink at least 7 oz. of filtered, or pure, water each day for each 10 lbs. you weigh. Add a pinch of baking soda to your water or take alkaline supplements.

Tips

Managing stress can also help detoxify acidity. Adopt a yoga or meditation practice, and sleep at least eight hours each night. Talk to your doctor before beginning this or any detox diet.

Warnings

Don't eat fewer than 1,200 calories per day.