The alkaline diet is based on the idea that foods you eat can affect the pH balance of your body. Proponents of the diet claim that eating more alkaline foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and fewer acid-producing foods, such as protein-rich dairy and animal products, keeps the body's pH in proper balance for optimal health.

No significant evidence suggests that eating acidic foods such as meat, poultry, eggs and other protein-rich sources negatively affects the body's pH balance. The body is able to maintain a relatively steady pH with the intake of acidic as well as alkaline foods. But the emphasis on lots of fruits and vegetables in the alkaline diet does offers benefits, simply because of their nutritional value. Serve your fruits and veggies with lean proteins, like skinless chicken breast, fish, beans, nuts and lowfat dairy, for the most health benefits.