Q. - My question is, do I have to become a vegetarian to alkaline my body?

A. - Absolutely not! In fact I don't recommend it. I understand that there is some controversy about whether a vegetarian diet is healthy or not.

I have known people who initially improved on a vegetarian diet, but then actually became sicker years down the road. Most people who follow a vegetarian diet will feel better and experience health improvements in the beginning. This is because in general, they are eating a much better diet than the Standard American Diet. They are balancing out years of abuse from junk food, too much fat, too much protein and excess in general.

The key is balance. That's why we call it alkaline BALANCE - Meat is an important part of the human diet. For starters, it's very difficult to get a good source of vitamin B12 from plant sources alone. Then consider essential fatty acids. The word essential is used for a reason. Cold water fish and animals fed a NATURAL DIET are the best sources of EPA, DHA, essential omega 3's.

Many folks tout flax seeds and oil as a source of omega 3. Your body has to convert this thru a multi stage process, to get to the usable form in the body. If you lack certain nutrients, are under stress or are toxic, this doesn't happen very efficiently. Animal sources, such as fish oil provide a more directly usable form in the body.

Protein from animals is generally higher in quality than vegetables. Animal protein has a more complete amino acid profile.

It's also worth noting that blood type and genetic heritage play a role. There are certain types who fair better on a vegetarian regime than others. At the same time consider Eskimos. They consume a very high fat, high protein diet, on which they thrive. Place them on a vegetarian diet and they develop ulcers and rotten tempers.

To sum up the answer to your question, a short term vegetarian regime may help you to clean up the body, and move you towards alkaline balance. I do not recommend it for long term use. Meat and animal products find their place in a healthy and balanced diet.