Did you know the acid/alkaline balance of your body and blood plays an integral part in your overall health?  An overly acidic body is the perfect breeding ground for all types of disease, which thrive in a low-oxygen, acidic environment, says Marian Buck-Murray, a health counselor and healing foods specialist based in Maplewood.  "By adding mineral-rich foods and herbs to your diet, you help to alkalize your system," she says. " An alkalized, oxygen-rich environment promotes efficient bodily functions, metabolism, detoxification, and healing."
 
Symptoms from eating such an acidic or "low-oxygen" diet include:  Fatigue, poor digestion, low immunity, yeast infections, acid indigestion, weight gain and more.  All of these symptoms can be improved and sometimes eliminated, simply by consuming a more alkaline diet, says Buck-Murray.  Benefits include: More energy, improved clarity, improved mood, and increased immunity.
 
To alkalize your diet, says Buck-Murray, simply add in more greens, vegetable juices, sea vegetables and low-sugar fruits.  Eliminate or reduce sugar, refined carbohydrates, caffeine and alcohol. Balance each meal with an abundance of nutrient-rich leafy greens and vegetables, with smaller amounts of grains and protein.   If desired, add in alkalizing supplements such as wheat grass juice or super greens.
 
Buck-Murray suggests trying the following recipe. "It is alkalizing and delicious," she says.

Easy Bok Choy
 
1 bunch Bok Choy, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
Handful shitake mushrooms (optional)
1-2 Tablespoons olive or sesame oil
Salt
 
1.  Wipe the tops of the mushrooms.  Remove and discard stems.  Slice into thin strips.
2. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet.  Add shitakes and salt and cook for 2-3 minutes stirring constantly with wooden spoon to prevent sticking.  Add the garlic, cook 1 minute more.
3. Add Bok Choy.  Stir fry for approximately 3 minutes, or until bok choy is tender, but not mushy.
 
(Use this method for Kale and Collards.  Remove leaves from stem, discard stems.  Shitakes or other mushrooms are optional.)