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The Food Combining Theory and the Food Combining Diet.

The Hay Food Combining Diet was developed at the beginning of the 20 th Century by Dr. Howard Hay based on his personal experience.

According to the Food-Combining Theory illnesses are caused for two reasons:

1. A wrong chemical condition of the body namely acidity: 
   Dr. Hay assumes that concentrated foods (mostly foods containing carbohydrates or protein) cause the manufacturing and accumulation of acid in the body.
2. Slow digestion as a result of the simultaneous consumption of proteins and carbohydrates: According to Dr. Hay the body cannot digest acid- forming as well as alkaline-forming foods at the same time. If they are eaten together, the carbohydrates will then ferment in the small intestines.

The theory of the Hay Food Combining Diet states that carbohydrates and proteins are meant to be eaten separately. According to Dr. Hay proteins need an acidic environment whilst carbohydrates need an alkaline environment if the body is to make use of them. These foods have to be eaten separately so that the carbohydrates do not interfere with the digestion of the proteins and vice versa. Hay recommends a 4 hour break in between meals.

The excessive consumption of acid-forming foods leads to acidity of the body which is claimed to be the cause of many "civilisation illnesses".

About 80% of the food used in the diet is meant to be alkaline-forming whilst 20% is to be acid-forming.

Categorising Food according to the Food Combining Theory.

Alkali forming foods are for e.g. fruits, vegetable and salad. 
Acid forming foods are for e.g. meat, fish, cheese, eggs, fat, potatoes and wheat products. 
Neutral foods include yoghurt, milk, curd cheese and nuts.

The Hay Food Combining Diet was developed to help prevent and heal illnesses. The food combining theory has been repeatedly altered to suit an energy reduced diet suited for weight loss.