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Blueberry and acid reflux: Are Blueberries Acidic? Do They Ok for Acid Reflux?

Are Blueberries Acidic? Do They Ok for Acid Reflux?

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Yes, like most of you I also snack on blueberries now and then. But are these popular and tiny fruits always safe to consume, especially for people who are fighting acid reflux or GERD?

Are Blueberries acidic?

Although blueberries are often kept on the diet chart for all kinds of people, it’s necessary to know that they’re somewhat acidic. Therefore, it’s important that you consider the pH levels carefully.

So, it’s very crucial to understand the acidic levels of fresh fruits like blueberries. Here, I’ll give you a quick tour of everything necessary you would need to know on this matter.

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Why Are Blueberries Acidic?

Blueberries are moderately acidic because on the pH scale, Blueberries pH ranges from 3.11 – 3.35. So we know anything on the pH scale less than 7 is acidic.

That’s why if you’re on low-acid sustenances, then you shouldn’t have this fruit frequently. However, eating appropriate Blueberries is safe and beneficial for you.

Because there are many antioxidants and micronutrients that you would find in blueberries as well, and that helps to fight many diseases and maintain your good health at the same time.

PH of Blueberries?

There are actually several kinds of blueberries and the pH level also depends on it. However, most of the time, the scale ranges from 3.11 to 3.35. Therefore, these fruits are labeled as acidic. 

BlueberriespH Value
Blueberries, Maine3.12-3.33
Blueberries, frozen3.11-3.22
Blueberries, Wild4.0-5.0
Blueberries, Dried3.1- 3.4

But there’s no harm in having blueberries in small quantities. That’s how you can keep your diet complete, leveled, and healthy without triggering any underlying illness.

Moreover, among all the other fruits, blueberries are actually slightly acidic. Thus people who have issues like acidic reflux wouldn’t need to worry much if there’s a small number of blueberries in their diet chart because all the other health advantages of blueberries adjust their acidic trait.

Also, blueberries are quite a heavy fruit for the appetite. You won’t be able to consume too much of these altogether. Hence, the chances of causing acidic flux are less likely.

Are Blueberries Good for Acid Reflux?

Blueberries are not good if you’re recently suffering from acid reflux. However, blueberries can not trigger acid reflux if you already have no symptoms related to acid reflux or heartburn. In this case, eating a moderate amount of blueberries will not cause acid reflux as blueberries are not highly acidic. They fall in a mild acidic category.

On the other hand, if you’re eating a lot of blueberries and you already have a problem with heartburn or acid reflux, it can worsen your symptoms. Also, if you’re suffering from active gastritis, eating blueberries can be harmful.

In patients with gastritis, there is already an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Blueberries contain citric acid and ascorbic acid. So, they can irritate the stomach lining.

Next comes, the amount of blueberries you snack on. Although blueberries are mildly acidic, eating a lot of these can stimulate the stomach lining to produce more acid. This can also aggravate acid reflux. Also, the stomach will produce more hydrochloric acid to digest a greater amount of blueberries. This can burn your throat or stomach.

So, eating a moderate amount of blueberries is not harmful to acid reflux. But as you increase their amount, you are most likely to suffer from heartburn.

Also, there are various health benefits of eating blueberries. These benefits include a healthy heart and brain.

So, to enjoy these benefits just limit the consumption of blueberries to avoid acid reflux.

Does Blueberry Juice Deteriorate Acidic Reflux?

Well, if you have acid reflux, then it’s better to avoid blueberry juice specifically. Because Blueberries are somewhat acid-forming. Although blueberry juice has a similar level on pH scale, like fresh blueberries, the juice doesn’t contain the exact amount of fiber that you’ll get from raw blueberries.

This makes the juice inadequate for consuming your gut acid, and this might deteriorate your signs of acid reflux. This is why doctors suggest consuming fresh blueberries instead of blueberry juice.

Also another thing that we overlook most of the time is the number of blueberries we need to use while making the juice. 

It’s actually way more than the amount you usually snack on. It results in high sugar intake and digestion problems. And this can cause heartburn and other issues because your acid reflux can resurface in your esophagus.

Does Blueberry Jam Deteriorate Acidic Reflux?

If you notice, you would need a huge amount of sugar to make the jam and a lot of blueberries at the same time. You see, raw blueberries are acidic in general but that’s quite moderate.  

However, when you mix these fruits with sugar, these will hamper your digestion, and on top of that, it’ll generate extra acid in your stomach. Nonetheless, it’s mostly noticeable if you buy jams from shops because those are filled with different additives. 

But if you prefer homemade blueberry jam, then the issues mentioned above can be avoided to some extent. Or just try to prepare the jam considering your diet and other health concerns. 

This way there won’t be a bucket of harmful additives or sugar intake, only a jam made fresh and raw blueberries. Always go for the raw blueberries as they’re full of fiber and other beneficial nutrients rather than pesticides and toxic chemicals. Therefore, no more suffering from stomach acidity. 

Are Blueberries Beneficial for Health?

You see, there’s a strong connection between your weight and acidic reflux. If you have excess weight then very low acidic food might trigger your acidity. However, blueberries don’t have many calories. If you want to calculate then it’ll be around only 84 for each cup.

Furthermore, these fruits would help you a lot if you’re dehydrated as they contain about 85% water. Blueberries don’t contain fat as well. Fat can be the trigger for acidic reflux or GERD and sometimes deteriorate the situation.

In short, even though blueberries are slightly acidic, all the other health benefits of this fruit make it beneficial for your health.

To your surprise, the benefits don’t end here. Blueberries are also very rich in many vital vitamins such as vitamin K. Do you know, blueberries are very beneficial in helping blood clotting and therefore, wound recovery? Yes, there are more benefits like this fruit will prevent your cell damage, particularly cancers and diseases due to aging as well.

To add up with it, blueberries help to increase natural antioxidants in your body, which basically helps to relax inflammation and boost stomach health. Moreover, it keeps urinary-related infections at bay.

On top of all these, blueberries are really good for people who have diabetes.

Although a cup of blueberries contains around 15g of sugar, they’re good to neutralize the sugar effect because of their bioactive compounds. Therefore, your blood sugar will be in check, and your insulin and glucose metabolism as well.

Should You Eat a Huge Amount of Blueberries?

We already saw that blueberries aren’t alkaline; rather they are acidic fruit. However, it’s actually partly acidic as it doesn’t have a pH level above 4.6.

Also, if you see the PRAL score of blueberries, then it’s about -0.6. Here PRAL means the Potential Renal Acid Load. It’s basically a measurement followed to determine the potential acid load in the digestive zone for each 100g of fruit.

So, with the PRAL score mentioned above, blueberries aren’t capable of vigorously hampering your stomach acid if you take them in a moderate amount.

However, there are some low-acid foods that you can pair with blueberries that will reduce any chance of exacerbating your acid reflux symptoms. Let’s take a look at the list below, which contains the names of the low-acidic foods—

  • Curd and milk
  • A lot of fresh and raw veggies, including potatoes  
  • Seasonings and spices. However, don’t use mustard, salt, or nutmeg
  • Lentils
  • Beans 
  • Different soy, for example, tofu, miso, soybeans, and tempeh 
  • Herbal drinks or tea specifically
  • Several seeds like quinoa, amaranth, etc.
  • Olive oil is a good fat to mix blueberry salads or other dishes.

When Should You Avoid Blueberries?

Acid reflux causes a long chest burn or throat inflammation. Along with it, you may struggle with bloated abdomen for several hours.

In order to prevent this kind of situation, you should avoid acidic food and need to include less-acidic fruits or other foods in your diet. Also, you might need to stop snacking over blueberries and reduce it to 2-5 blueberries a day.

Let’s have a look at the other less-acidic fruits which should take the majority of your food chart instead of fruits like blueberries in case you’re fighting your acidic flux:

  • Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are some of the low-acidic melons that you can use to make fruit salad. And add a few blueberries as well.
  • Bananas can be another good less-acidic option to blend in a blueberry smoothie 
  • Among other fiber enriched fruits, Apple stands out the most. This makes it a very good alternative for people with stomach acidity issues by improving their metabolism.

FAQs

Do blueberries aggravate acid reflux?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on individuals’ individual circumstances. Some people who experience acid reflux may find that eating blueberries aggravates the condition, while others may not have any adverse effects. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider about any potential acid reflux concerns before indulging in blueberry consumption.

How much acid is in blueberries?

1% to 2%. Blueberries are high in antioxidants and as a result, they have a low acidity level.

What fruit is low in acid?

These fruits are in low acid: Avocados, Persimmon Fuyu, Cantaloupe, Olives, black, Honeydew melon, Mangoes ripe, Dates, Honeydew.

Bottom Line

So, are blueberries acidic? The answer should be clear to you by now. You see, it’s a healthy practice to have acidic foods with temperance to avoid stomach acidity.

In short, blueberries are acidic, but they’re not harmfully acidic to cause any major issue and are good for people who suffer from acid flux if consumed in normal amounts.

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Are Blueberries Acidic? – Tastylicious

Blueberries are a popular fruit that’s delicious and highly nutritious. They’re a fantastic addition to a healthy, balanced diet, whether you eat them on their own, in a fruit salad, or add them to your favorite smoothie.

However, many people suffer from acid reflux or GERD and may follow a low-acid diet to avoid triggering or worsening their symptoms like heartburn. Such a diet can be challenging, as followers must know the acidity of common foods and how each affects their symptoms.

Many fruits are acidic and may trigger acid reflux symptoms. But are they all?

Table of Contents

  • Are Blueberries Acidic or Alkaline?
  • What Is the pH of Blueberries?
  • How Healthy are Blueberries?
  • Are Blueberries Bad for Acid Reflux?
  • Is Blueberry Juice Bad for Acid Reflux?
  • Is Blueberry Jam Bad for Acid Reflux?

Are Blueberries Acidic or Alkaline?

Blueberries are acidic, and people with acid reflux or GERD should limit their intake or avoid them entirely. However, they’re highly nutritious, so if you can tolerate their acidity, they’re an excellent dietary addition.

  • Is Pumpkin Acidic?

What Is the pH of Blueberries?

The pH of blueberries is around 3.11 to 3.33, depending on the variety. However, like most berries, they’re nutritious, and eating small quantities won’t increase stomach acid production.

To prevent causing heartburn, mix blueberries with alkaline-forming fruits, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and kiwi.

  • Are Blackberries Acidic?

How Healthy are Blueberries?

Often called a superfood, blueberries are low in calories, containing only around 84 per cup. They’re also about 85% water and contain no fat, which can worsen acid reflux and GERD symptoms.

They’re rich in vitamin K, with a cup containing up to 36% of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin K contributes to blood clotting and wound healing.

Blueberries are also loaded with antioxidants, which flush out free radicals that damage your cells, helping prevent some cancers and age-related diseases.

They’ve also been shown to increase naturally occurring antioxidants in your body, soothing inflammation and promoting gut health.

These antioxidants, along with anti-adhesive substances, help prevent urinary tract infections.

  • Are Cranberries Acidic?

Although a cup of blueberries contains 15 grams of sugar, their bioactive compounds help regulate blood sugar levels, positively affect insulin sensitivity, and support glucose metabolism.

Additionally, eating blueberries lowers bad cholesterol levels by as much as 27%, reducing your risk of heart disease and blood clots.

Some studies have also indicated that the antioxidants in blueberries improve memory and brain function.

  • Are Acai Berries Acidic?

Are Blueberries Bad for Acid Reflux?

Eating too many blueberries may trigger or worsen your acid reflux and GERD symptoms.

However, everyone’s symptom triggers are different, and blueberries are an excellent addition to your diet if you can tolerate their acidity.

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Is Blueberry Juice Bad for Acid Reflux?

Blueberry juice is acidic as fresh blueberries but contains less fiber. Fiber absorbs excess gastric acid, so most doctors recommend eating fresh berries rather than drinking juice.

It also contains more sugar, which can stimulate stomach acid production.

  • Are Raspberries Acidic?

Is Blueberry Jam Bad for Acid Reflux?

Any jam contains a lot of sugar, which stimulates gastric acid production. As blueberries are acidic, so is the jam, so those on a low-acid diet should limit their intake or avoid it entirely.

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Don’t know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Be careful with blueberries: unpleasant side effects of everyone’s favorite berry | Health

Blueberries are delicious small blue berries that grow on the shrub of the same name. These wonderful berries are originally from South America but are now grown in many parts of the world. Blueberries are a good source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. The presence of these compounds makes them very beneficial for our health, good hair and skin.

In summer, many people eat these berries. Although blueberries are generally safe, there are some side effects from eating too many berries, and we will learn about them in more detail in this article.

Too much fiber is bad for our health

Blueberries are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes bowel function, relieves constipation, supports digestive and heart health, and aids in weight management. The presence of dietary fiber in blueberries makes them very healthy, but too much fiber will not benefit, but harm.

Excess dietary fiber can cause stomach discomfort, gastrointestinal problems such as bloating and diarrhea. Excessive consumption of blueberries can also interfere with the absorption of nutrients by our intestines and cause a host of health problems. Because of this high-fiber risk, it is advisable to eat blueberries in moderation.

May cause salicylate sensitivity in some people

Blueberries are high in salicylates, which are the active ingredient used to form aspirin (a synthetic drug used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation). This compound is naturally found in many plants and provides many benefits, but not for people who are sensitive to salicylates.

People who are allergic to salicylates should stay away from blueberries that contain high amounts of salicylates as this can cause rashes, headaches, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, bloating, and gas. , diarrhea, and constipation. Therefore, those who are allergic to salicylates should avoid drinking blueberries or blueberry juice.

Vitamin K overdose

Blueberries are a good source of vitamin K, and eating one cup of blueberries will give you about 29 micrograms of vitamin K. Vitamin K is a vital nutrient that plays an important role in maintaining our health and has a number of functions in our body. For example, it regulates blood clotting, improves bone density, reduces the risk of cancer and ensures good cardiovascular function.

Although there are many benefits to the body when consuming vitamin K, there are some side effects associated with taking a high dose, and for this reason it is best not to overeat blueberries.

A high dose of vitamin K may cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, irregular breathing, fainting, shortness of breath, skin rashes, increased risk of internal bleeding and bruising.

Blueberry leaves may cause hypoglycaemia

If you suffer from diabetes, it is advisable not to use blueberry leaves as an adjunct to your diabetes medication. This is because eating blueberry leaves can lower blood sugar levels to dangerously low levels, which can lead to hypoglycemia, which can be identified by common symptoms such as blurred vision, sudden change in mood, sudden nervousness, pale skin. , headache, hunger, sweating, tremors, trouble thinking or concentrating, and loss of consciousness.

Moderate consumption of blueberries is beneficial for people with diabetes as they slowly release sugar into the bloodstream and do not cause a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. But eating too many blueberries is bad, as it can also lower your blood sugar to dangerously low levels. If you suffer from diabetes, it is best to consult your doctor first and eat blueberries as recommended.

Not suitable for people allergic to these berries

Generally speaking, there are few allergic factors associated with blueberries and they are well tolerated by most people. This means that a person can consume the berries without worrying about allergic reactions. However, those who are allergic to stone fruits (such as peaches, plums, apricots, cherries, nectarines) may also be sensitive to blueberries.

Large amounts of blueberries are not safe for pregnant women

Blueberries contain many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, flavonoids and phytochemicals. The presence of these substances makes blueberries very beneficial for pregnant women. In general, blueberries are a safe berry to consume during pregnancy, but to ensure safety, it is recommended that you consult your doctor and eat blueberries only as recommended by a specialist. The food and drink that a pregnant woman consumes plays an important role in the development of the child, and for this reason, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor before eating any berry.

Too many blueberries are not safe for breastfeeding mothers

Moderate consumption of blueberries is safe and beneficial for mothers, but high intake should be avoided. Although it is a good source of a number of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals, flavonoids, but too much of these substances (such as vitamin K, potassium, dietary fiber) is harmful to our health and can cause side effects.

Blueberries and surgery

Blueberries are high in salicylates, which thin the blood. In addition to this, the vitamin K present in blueberries dissolves blood clots. Because of these properties, blueberries are not suitable for people who are scheduled for surgery.

It is advisable to stop eating blueberries at least two weeks before a scheduled operation, otherwise surgical wounds can take a very long time to heal (due to the blood-thinning properties of blueberries).

Another reason to stop eating blueberries a few weeks before surgery is because of their ability to affect blood glucose levels and interfere with blood sugar control after and during surgery.

Which fruits aggravate heartburn?

Grapefruit and orange – The high acidity of citrus fruits relaxes the esophageal sphincter and worsens symptoms. Tomatoes. Also avoid marinara sauce, ketchup, and tomato soup—all of which are naturally acidic.

Is it possible to eat berries afterwards with acid reflux? Berries are nutritional powerhouses, with one of the highest levels of antioxidants of any fresh fruit. And they can be high Ph too, and is potentially tolerable if you have acid reflux – especially blackberries, raspberries and strawberries.

Then, are blueberries good for acid reflux?

Foods to Eat on an Acid Reflux Diet

Non-citrus fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries and strawberries are a win-win. Lean Chicken and Meat: Order or grill instead of fried. Plain bread and cereal: Avoid overly processed carbs with fatty ingredients like muffins and croissants.

Also, blueberries are sour? In addition to “classic” acidic foods like caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, mint, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, “healthy” foods like honey, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are also highly acidic.

Are blueberries difficult to digest? Unlike some fruits, blueberries do not contain enzymes capable of digesting proteins or carbohydrates, but they affect the function of certain enzymes in the body, which can lead to positive health outcomes.

Contents

Are blueberries good for gastritis?

Foods to help prevent gastritis

Foods that can help suppress the growth of H. pylori and reduce gastritis and ulcers include: cauliflower, swede, cabbage, radish, and other Brassica vegetables. berries such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries.

Are blueberries healthy?

Blueberries, Antioxidant Superfood

Packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, these berries are also rich in potassium and vitamin C, making them a top choice for doctors and nutritionists. They not only reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, but also have anti-inflammatory effects.

Are blueberries alkaline?

Fruits such as blueberries are not alkaline fruits, but rather acidic fruits. It has a pH level of 3 to 4. For foods to be considered acidic, they must have a pH level of 4.6 or lower.

What foods help get rid of acid reflux?

Foods that help prevent acid reflux

  • Whole grains such as oatmeal, couscous and brown rice.
  • Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets.
  • Green vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli and green beans.

Why blueberries upset the stomach?

When salicylates are unacceptable, your immune system reacts negatively to eating blueberries. This leads to inflammation of the intestines, and in some cases can lead to inflammatory bowel syndrome.

Do blueberries have side effects?

Salicylate Sensitivity

For those intolerant to salicylates, blueberries can cause rashes, headaches, or a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, reflux, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Blueberry juice is especially rich in salicylates.

Blueberries make you bloated?

Cooked apples and pears are easier to digest than fresh ones. People can also replace apples and pears in their diet with other fruits that are less likely to cause bloating, such as berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. citrus fruits such as grapefruits, tangerines and oranges.

Is blueberries good for the stomach?

Blueberries help prevent constipation and keep your digestive tract regular due to their fiber content. Dietary fiber is also widely recognized as an important factor in weight loss and weight management as it acts as a “filler” in the digestive system.

Can blueberries cause stomach pain?

Mild blueberry allergy reactions include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or mild rash after eating moderately large amounts of blueberries. The cause of abdominal pain is the inability of the body to digest blueberries.

What happens if I eat blueberries every day?

A bowl of blueberries can help boost immunity and reduce the risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, according to several studies. In addition, eating a small serving of berries daily can help improve metabolism and prevent any kind of metabolic syndrome and deficiency.

What happens when you eat blueberries every day?

Blueberries may help heart health, bone strength, skin health, blood pressure, diabetes management, cancer prevention, and mental health. One cup of blueberries provides 24% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C.

Are bananas good for acid reflux?

Bananas. This low acid fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating the irritated lining of the esophagus. And not only are bananas alkaline, they are also rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that helps food move through the digestive tract.

Berries are sour fruits?

Berries, one of the healthiest foods, are also one of the most acidic, which can increase tooth enamel erosion. But berries are too good to cut out of your diet. Instead, combine them with other, less acidic foods to keep your body and teeth in peaceful harmony.

What relieves heartburn at night?

  1. Sleep with your upper body elevated.
  2. Wear loose clothing.
  3. Avoid foods that cause heartburn.
  4. Avoid late meals or large meals.
  5. Relax when you eat.
  6. Remain upright after eating.
  7. Please wait to practice.
  8. Chewing gum.

Does drinking water help acid reflux?

In general, drinking water can help balance the pH of particularly acidic foods, which can help reduce the risk of acid reflux. Research shows that drinking mineral water high in bicarbonate can help reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux.

Why do I get heartburn so often?

If you have frequent or persistent heartburn (more than twice a week or heartburn every day), you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that connects the esophagus and stomach.

Why do blueberries make me burp?

You are still swallowing more air than usual, so you will still burp. Fruits that cause gas, including apples, pears, and raisins, can cause burping due to the sorbitol (sugar) they contain. If you find this to be a problem, instead stick to fruits that don’t cause gas, such as berries.

Who shouldn’t eat blueberries?

Blueberries may increase the risk of bleeding

People taking blood thinners should not exceed the recommended daily intake of vitamin K, which is 90 micrograms for adult women and 120 micrograms for men. They also need to avoid large fluctuations in vitamin K intake, says the Linus Pauling Institute.

How do I know if I’m allergic to blueberries?

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to blueberries can include:

  1. Itching.
  2. Edema.
  3. Urticaria, swelling or redness.
  4. Abdominal pain.
  5. Nausea.
  6. Vomiting.
  7. Diarrhea.
  8. Runny or stuffy nose.

When should you not eat blueberries?

Although blueberries are one of the most popular and healthy fruits, they do not have a long shelf life. If you notice that they are moldy, softened, soft, discolored, or have an unpleasant taste or smell, you will want to throw them away.

Can blueberries cause allergies?

Blueberries contain salicylates, which are natural plant chemicals. It is this compound that causes most allergic reactions to blueberries. Salicylates are found in other foods and foods, so if you are found to be allergic, consider staying away from foods that contain salicylates.

Which fruit does not cause gas?

Fortunately, there are some foods that are less likely to cause gas. You can turn to them when you need to avoid the gas, bloating, and embarrassment that can come with them.

Fruit

  • Blueberry.
  • Cantaloupe.
  • Clementine.
  • Grapes.
  • Nectar.
  • Kiwi.
  • Pineapple.
  • Raspberry.

Which fruits can cause gas?

Many fruits such as apples, mangoes and pears are rich in the natural sugar fructose.