Are you curious about the alkalinity of gram flour, also known as chickpea flour or besan?
This versatile ingredient is a staple in Middle Eastern, Indian, and African cuisine, and is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world due to its gluten-free and high-protein properties.
But what about its pH level? Is gram flour acidic or alkaline?
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind the alkalinity of chickpeas and their derived flour, as well as the potential health benefits of consuming alkaline foods.
So grab a cup of tea and let’s dive in!
Is Gram Flour Alkaline?
To answer the question, yes, gram flour is alkaline. This is because chickpeas, the main ingredient in gram flour, have an alkaline pH level of 7.0 or higher.
When we consume food, it breaks down into an ash residue that can be either acidic, neutral, or alkaline. Minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, zinc, silver, copper, and iron produce an alkaline ash. On the other hand, sulfur, phosphorus, chlorine, and iodine found in meat, coffee, dairy, and alcohol leave an acidic ash.
Chickpeas contain a high amount of minerals that produce an alkaline ash when metabolized by the body. This makes gram flour an alkaline food that can help balance the body’s pH levels.
Understanding PH Levels And Acidity Vs. Alkalinity
To understand why gram flour is considered alkaline, it’s important to first understand the concept of pH levels and acidity vs. alkalinity. pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is, and it ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, while anything below 7 is acidic and anything above 7 is alkaline.
The pH level of a substance is determined by the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) in the substance. If there are more hydrogen ions than hydroxide ions, the substance is acidic. If there are more hydroxide ions than hydrogen ions, the substance is alkaline.
When we consume food, it can have either an acidic or alkaline effect on our body’s pH levels. This effect is determined by the mineral content of the food and how those minerals are metabolized by the body. Foods that contain minerals that produce an acidic ash when metabolized will have an acidic effect on our body’s pH levels. Conversely, foods that contain minerals that produce an alkaline ash when metabolized will have an alkaline effect on our body’s pH levels.
Chickpeas, the main ingredient in gram flour, contain a high amount of minerals that produce an alkaline ash when metabolized by the body. This makes gram flour an alkaline food that can help balance the body’s pH levels.
It’s important to note that while monitoring our body’s pH levels can be beneficial, it’s not necessary to obsess over it. Our body has natural mechanisms in place to regulate our pH levels, and small variations in pH levels are normal and not necessarily cause for concern. However, consuming a balanced diet that includes both acidic and alkaline foods can help promote overall health and wellbeing.
The PH Level Of Chickpeas And Gram Flour
Chickpeas, the main ingredient in gram flour, have a pH level of 5.5 once they are digested. This is because the breakdown of food results in an ash residue that can be either acidic, neutral, or alkaline. Although chickpeas are an acidic food, they produce an alkaline ash due to the minerals they contain.
Chickpeas are a good source of minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, which all contribute to the alkaline ash produced by the body. Additionally, chickpea flour is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, including dietary fiber, making it a healthy and nutritious option for those looking to balance their body’s pH levels.
The Benefits Of Consuming Alkaline Foods
Consuming alkaline foods, such as those found in an alkaline diet, can provide numerous health benefits. These benefits include better heart health, stronger bones, decreased pain, weight loss, and reversal of nutrient deficiencies.
An alkaline diet includes whole fruits and vegetables, raw foods, green juices, beans, and nuts. These plant-based foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve overall health and well-being.
Additionally, an alkaline diet can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. This is because the diet promotes the consumption of whole foods while limiting processed foods that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Studies have also shown that an alkaline diet can be beneficial for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables with a low net acid load can result in lower levels of kidney injury markers and urinary albumin excretion without developing hyperkalemia.
Incorporating Gram Flour Into An Alkaline Diet
If you’re looking to incorporate more alkaline foods into your diet, gram flour is a great option. Here are some ideas for incorporating gram flour into your meals:
1. Baking: Gram flour can be used as a substitute for regular flour in baking. Try using it in pizza crusts, bread, muffins, and cookies for a healthy twist on your favorite baked goods.
2. Soups: Gram flour can be added to soups and stews to thicken them up and add a nutty flavor. It’s a great way to make your soups more filling and nutritious.
3. Pancakes: Gram flour can be used to make delicious pancakes that are gluten-free and high in protein. Simply mix the flour with some water or milk, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
4. Falafel: Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas. Instead of using canned chickpeas, try making your own falafel using gram flour for a healthier and more alkaline version.
5. Wraps: Gram flour can be used to make gluten-free wraps that are perfect for sandwiches or burritos. Simply mix the flour with some water and cook it on a skillet until it’s crispy and golden brown.
Incorporating gram flour into your diet is a great way to add more alkaline foods to your meals. Whether you’re baking, cooking, or snacking, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this nutritious and delicious ingredient.
