Linus Pauling (1901 – 1994), the American biochemist and health educator who was the only person to win two unshared Nobel Prizes, observed that “You can trace every sickness, every disease and every ailment to a mineral deficiency.”

That’s a big deal because minerals are instrumental in keeping the body from becoming too acidic. And an acidic state can erode your good health.

The best source of minerals is fruits and vegetables, but most Americans eat far too few of them to benefit.

And, while it is easy to become acidic, especially if you eat a standard Western diet full of ultra-processed foods, the power to improve your body’s pH and alkalize your system is in your hands.

An alkaline body is more energetic, less inflamed and better at supporting its detoxification system.

If you want to raise your pH and use the power of alkalinity to keep your body healthy, here are six steps to take...

#1 – Eat More Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables promote liver detoxification and are known as potent alkalizers. Ones to include in your daily diet are Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens and kale.

#2 – Switch Your Salt

Himalayan pink salt is a highly alkaline food, and it’s easy to incorporate into your day-to-day. Simply replace your regular table salt with this to give your body an alkaline boost. I like to add a pinch to my breakfast smoothies.

#3 – Try a Green Smoothie

Speaking of smoothies, they are a great way to start your day with the alkalizing power of greens. My favorite green smoothie uses:

• 1 cup cubed cantaloupe
• 1 cup almond milk
• ½ banana
• 2 cups spinach or kale
• ½ cucumber
• 1 cup ice
• 1 tsp chia seeds

#4 – Drink Lemon Water

It sounds counterintuitive, since lemons are acidic, to say that lemons will help you become more alkaline. But, it’s true…

While lemons are acidic fresh off the tree, once they’re digested, they become alkaline. And, limes work the same way. Take advantage of this weird quirk of nature by sipping on lemon water throughout your day. You can even add stevia to enjoy a lemon or limeade at home.

#5 – Alkalize Your Water

You can take it a step further by alkalizing all of the water you drink. You can either purchase alkaline water from the store or buy an alkaline water ionizer for use at home.

#6 – Limit Acidic Food and Drink

While you’re adding in more alkalizers, you also need to avoid foods and drinks that increase your acidity.

High-acidity foods include:

• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Tea
• Sodas
• Cheese
• Dairy (except when raw)
• Dried fruits
• Non-organic or grass-fed eggs and meats

Over-acidity is a path to poor health. Use the six steps above to balance your pH and enjoy how good it feels to be alkaline!