What Are the Benefits of Alkaline in the Body?Last Updated: Aug 16, 2013 | By Kathryn Flynn, M.P.H.
Eating alkalizing foods like carrots, cucumbers, and tomatoes have benefits ranging from clear skin to cancer prevention. Photo Creditvegetables image by Edvin selimovic from Fotolia.comWhen your body is in an alkaline state, you are less likely to suffer from chronic diseases. The foods and beverages you consume each day have a direct impact on the acid and alkaline balance in your body. This balance is measured by determining your pH value, which tells you if your body's fluids and tissues are more acidic or alkaline. On a pH scale of negative 4.5, which is very acidic, to positive 9.5, which is highly alkaline, your body is considered healthy and alkaline if you have a pH level of 7.0 or above.
The Little ThingsIf you have a slight pH fluctuation, and your body becomes more acidic than it should be, your body immediately begins to exhibit symptoms of an imbalance. These symptoms may be considered little things, like a runny nose, fatigue, a skin breakout, or a slight case of irritable bowel syndrome. However, these minor health issues are actually the first sign that your body might be too acidic and needs to reach a more alkaline state. Although exposure to germs and contaminants, stress and other external life factors can cause all of these symptoms too, you are more likely to have clearer skin, better digestion, more energy, and a nose that runs less often when your body is alkaline.
Fewer Colds
An acidic environment promotes the growth of bad bacteria, yeast and fungi. The imbalance of your body's good bacteria makes you more prone to getting infections. You will be less likely to suffer from the common cold when your body is alkaline.

Cancer Prevention
A major benefit of having an alkaline body state is that you might reduce your risk for developing cancer. When your body is too acidic, oxygen levels are lowered and cellular metabolism stops. This can lead to the growth of cancer cells. Maintaining an alkaline state helps encourage healthy cell turnover, which is key in the prevention of cancer.
Healthy WeightFruits and vegetables make your body more alkaline, while processed foods, sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol make you more acidic. By eating alkalizing foods, you are more likely to maintain a healthy weight. The frequent consumption of acid-producing foods is more likely to contribute to a weight problem.

- See more at: http://www.livestrong.com/article/444199-what-are-the-benefits-of-alkaline-in-the-body/#sthash.Lm7b8SvT.dpuf

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