Kathryn, as you'll see in reviewing the posts in this forum, there are different theories about how best to alkalize the body. For instance, there is controversy about whether certain kind of fruits are alkalizing, or not:
//www.curezone.org/forums/m.asp?f=425&i=170
However, one of the best and simplest ways to learn more and to get started is to read Dr. Young's book _The pH Miracle, since it provides a great comprehensive overview, and lots of folks have benefited from his dietary guidelines and recommendations.