The recently published results of a 14-year study of the association between an acidic diet and the development of Type 2 diabetes have given plenty of merit to the popular diets followed by thousands of people, including well known celebrities like Victoria Beckham.
SOURCES: https://news.health.com/2013/11/13/how-your-diets-acidity-is-linked-to-diabetes/;
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/814347;
https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/type-2The recently published results of a 14-year study of the association between an acidic diet and the development of Type 2 diabetes have given plenty of merit to the popular diets followed by thousands of people, including well known celebrities like Victoria BeckhThe recently published results of a 14-year study of the association between an acidic diet and the development of Type 2 diabetes have given plenty of merit to the popular diets followed by thousands of people, including well known celebrities like Victoria Beckham.
Results of the study that followed more than 65,000 women in France indicate that diets high in acidity can lead to a nearly 60% greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as compared with diets that are more alkaline.
What does it mean to call a diet acidic or alkaline? Many people are asking this question, wondering how they can make the necessary changes that will lead to better health and a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Every food that you consume has either acidic or alkaline qualities once metabolized. For example, animal proteins are especially acidic, but most fruits and vegetables are considered to be alkaline. Alkaline foods can balance acidic foods, and it is not necessary to completely eliminate all acidic foods from your diet, as there are often nutritional benefits to these foods. But, making sure that your overall diet is more alkaline than acidic can help.
How does an acidic diet contribute to the risk of diabetes? When your body is more acidic, the pancreas has a more difficult time generating and distributing the insulin that is required for healthy function. Without a proper insulin balance, diabetes can develop.
What this study truly confirms is that a diet that is more plant based is healthier. You do not have to become fully vegetarian to experience the benefits and advantages, but incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet will not only make your body less acidic and reduce the risk for diabetes, but you will probably lose weight and have more energy too.
Here are some great ways to integrate more fruits and veggies into your diet, and make your body more alkaline:
Substitute minced mushrooms for ground beef: You probably will not even notice the difference in most recipes, such as chili, tacos and stuffed peppers when you make this substitution. But your body sure will! Mushrooms contain high levels of Vitamin D as well, which can help to jump start your metabolism. Try a luscious portabello burger instead of the beef variety and get the same benefits.
Instead of cream or milk, use pureed cauliflower: This is a great shortcut for increasing your veggie intake and reducing your intake of acidic foods. It works perfectly for mashed potatoes, cream soups, and casseroles. All you have to do is steam the cauliflower until it is soft, then mash until smooth. Not only will you reduce acidity and add tons of nutrients, you will be putting extra fiber into each of these dishes too.
Use creamy avocado instead of dairy salad dressings: Usually those who are trying to avoid rich dairy salad dressings are left with basic oil and vinegar combinations, and may long for the creamy texture of the dressings they have abandoned. Invite a creamy sensation into your salad by using a pureed ripe avocado mixed with a touch of minced garlic, a splash of apple cider vinegar, a dash of lemon juice, some freshly chopped basil leaves and a pinch of black pepper. The healthy fats and boost of Vitamin E are only a bonus after you taste this terrific dressing that doubles as a delicious veggie coating.
Use lemon vegetable broth instead of butter for sautéing: Surprisingly, lemons have a highly acidic flavour, but they are one of the most alkalizing foods you can find. Sauté your veggies in a low sodium vegetable broth with a squeeze of lemon juice, to increase alkalinity as well as add antioxidants and Vitamin C.
Choose plant milk over cow’s milk: Choose milk that is made from almonds, sunflower seeds, or flax seeds for a healthy boost. With fewer calories and less fat, there are added advantages to the reduced acidity.
Reducing the acidity in your body can have significant effects when trying to decrease the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Try these easy and tasty substitutions to make a difference in your diet!
SOURCES: https://news.health.com/2013/11/13/how-your-diets-acidity-is-linked-to-diabetes/;
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/814347;
https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/type-2/
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