Bring on the Greens

In the fall I attended a very informative seminar put on by Brendan Brazier.  He was focussing on the importance of maintaining a healthy ph level in our bodies.    I came away with some interesting information and was inspired to incorporate more greens and alkaline forming foods.   Brendan stressed the importance of keeping our bodies at a healthy pH level of  7.35.  If our pH level is too low, this means our body is  acidic and the likelihood of sickness and disease rises.  In this acidic state,  your level of fatigue is greater and cortisol levels rise which in turn impairs sleep.  Therefore, we must consume more alkaline-forming foods and less acid - forming foods.  One of the best ways to raise the pH level in the body is to consume foods with a high chlorophyll content.  Chlorophyll rich foods are vital to a healthy body... here is a list of what chlorophyll does for the body
- cleanses our blood by removing toxins
-  it is linked to the body's production of red blood cells
-  cell regeneration
-  improves oxygen transport 
-  increases energy levels
After learning and reading more on the topic of alkalizing and acid forming foods, I have become quite the green pusher.  I am focusing on  incorporating salads and dark green vegetables into my family's daily diet.  Citrus fruits, balsamic vinegar and apple cider vinegar are all acidic, but when consumed, become highly alkaline - forming in the body.  When I make my salad dressing and dips, I always use either balsamic or apple cider vinegar .  The kids really love the taste of vinegar, so this is an easy sell right now.  Cassidy ( my 10 year old) has come to enjoy a good salad with me - one full of spinach, peppers, avocado and nuts.  We make our own dressing consisting of a hemp/flax/olive oil blend, balsamic vinegar, a squeeze of dijon mustard and a touch of honey.  I am loving it!  I also make  my own kale chips by simply tearing off the leafy part of the kale and drizzling it with olive oil and popping it in the oven for a few minutes.  I sometimes add a little sea salt and pepper for added flavour.  By continually trying new ways of serving the same green vegetables my kids don't get bored with the same old.  I can't say they LOVE their greens yet, but they are giving them a fair try!