what is alkaline foods

The alkaline diet is a group of loosely related diets based on the misconception that different types of food can have an effect on the pH balance of the body. The diet is based on the idea that certain foods can affect the acidity (pH) of the body and that the change in pH can therefore be used to treat or prevent disease. However, this idea is a misconception, and the claims of the diet are not backed by science. The diet encourages low-processed, whole foods, which have been shown to prevent disease in the long term, so in that respect, it can be considered a healthy eating pattern. Some of the pillars of an alkaline diet are fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains like wild rice, oats, and quinoa. However, because the alkaline diet promotes excluding certain families of foods, it could result in a less balanced diet with resulting nutrient deficiencies such as essential fatty acids and phytonutrients. The level of effort needed to use this diet is considered "high" as there are many foods that need to be excluded.