Low-Acid Fruits for Acid Reflux

Medically Reviewed

Updated Feb 20, 2019

By

Tracy Davenport, Ph.D.

Medical ReviewerCarmen Roberts, M.S., R.D., L.D.N.

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A diagnosis of acid reflux no longer means saying goodbye to all of your favorite fruits. These super foods are an important part of a healthy diet. Fruits are usually low in fat and rich in the sort of fiber that can protect against acid reflux.

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If you have acid reflux, it may be best to choose fruits that are more basic and less acidic. In chemistry, pH is a measure of how acidic or basic something is. When choosing fruits, the higher the pH, the better.

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Bananas are one of Mother Nature’s original fast foods. They are easy to digest, high in potassium, and are less acidic than many other fruits. For example, bananas come in around 5. 0 on the pH scale.

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The advantages of eating coconuts are becoming more widely understood. Coconuts have been linked to some health benefits, including improving brain function and protecting against heart disease and stroke. They are one of the least acidic fruits.

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Dates and figs are also relatively low-acid. Years ago, these fruits were often served after dinner like candy because of their natural sweetness. Today, dates and figs can add sweetness to baked goods, smoothies, or granola.

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Watermelons and cantaloupes are high in vitamins and super low in calories. They’re also high on the pH scale, meaning that they’re relatively low in acid.

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Papayas are low in acid and offer a taste of the tropics. They are also packed with carotenes and vitamin C. If your grocery does not carry fresh papaya, you can usually find it cut up and frozen, or dried and packaged.

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Berries are nutritional powerhouses, with some of the highest antioxidant levels of any fresh fruit. And they can be high in Ph, too, and potentially tolerated if you have acid reflux — especially blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Tip: buy strawberries organic, because they topped the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list of most pesticide-laden fruits and vegetables in 2018.

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Both nectarines and peaches are packed with essential vitamins and antioxidant properties. They’re high in Ph, too, making them potentially tolerable if you have acid reflux. Both are best bought organic if possible.

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It’s important that you slowly test which fruits work well with your unique digestive system. Acid reflux can be complicated and is usually the result of myriad of factors, not just the ingestion of one food group.

What to Limit or Avoid

Eating acidic foods such as processed meats and citrus is unlikely to change your body’s pH balance. However, research shows that a balanced diet prioritizing plant-based foods is best for overall health.

Your body tightly regulates its pH balance through a variety of mechanisms that involve multiple organs like your kidneys and lungs.

Although your diet may affect the pH of your urine, research generally suggests that consuming acidic or alkaline foods is unlikely to affect the pH level of your blood significantly.

In fact, increased levels of acid in the blood usually suggest an underlying health issue like diabetes that’s not well managed, lung disease, or kidney problems.

Still, some people may choose to limit foods high in acid to reduce their potential renal acid load (PRAL), which refers to the amount of acid your body produces from the foods you eat. The higher the PRAL rating, the more acid you produce upon digestion.

The pH value tells you whether something is an acid, a base, or neutral.

• A pH of 0 indicates a high level of acidity.
• A pH of 7 is neutral.
• A pH of 14 is the most basic, or alkaline.

The distance between two points on the pH scale represents a tenfold difference in the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH of 6 is ten times more acidic than a pH of 7, and so on.

For example, battery acid is extremely acidic at 0, while liquid drain cleaner is very alkaline at 14. Pure distilled water is in the middle at 7. It’s neither acidic nor alkaline.

Just like different substances, different parts of the human body have different pH levels.

Your ideal blood pH is between 7.35 and 7.45, which is slightly alkaline. Your stomach is typically acidic at a pH of 3.5, which helps to break down food properly.

Foods considered acidic generally have a pH level of 4.6 or lower.

But the pH of food before you eat it is less important than the amount of acid or alkaline produced with digestion and metabolism of that food.

Foods that tend to cause more acidity in the body and that you may want to limit or avoid include:

• certain dairy products, including cheese
• fish and seafood
• high sodium processed foods
• fresh meats and processed meats, such as corned beef and turkey
• certain starchy foods, such as brown rice, oat flakes, or granola
• carbonated beverages, such as soda, seltzer, or spritzers
• high protein foods and supplements with animal protein

Research supporting the link between foods like animal protein and chronic disease due to a change in the body’s pH is limited.

New research may shed more light on this connection or expose other reasons why reducing animal products benefits health.

Although most types of fruit are acidic, they’re considered alkalizing, meaning they actually help reduce acid levels in your body.

This also means that they have a negative PRAL. The more negative the PRAL, the more it reduces the amount of acid in your body during digestion.

Here is the PRAL for a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) portion of several popular fruits:

• limes: -0.4
• blueberries: -0.6
• blackberries: -1.0
• pineapples: -1.1
• peaches: -1.5
• oranges: -1.6
• plums: -1.7
• apples: -1.8
• tomatoes: -1.8
• purple grapes: -1.9
• green grapes: -2.4
• bananas: -5.2
• pomegranates: -8.1
• raisins: -9.0

Keep in mind that although these fruits are alkalizing in the body, their initial acidity could worsen symptoms for those with upper gastrointestinal issues like an ulcer or reflux.

In fact, doctors often advise people with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to limit their intake of acidic foods, including citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes.

Like fruits, vegetables are also alkalizing and can help reduce acid levels in the body.

Here is the PRAL for a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of some common vegetables:

• shiitake mushrooms (cooked): -0.2
• artichoke (cooked): -0.5
• zucchini (cooked): -0.6
• arugula (raw): -1.1
• white cabbage (raw): -1.5
• spinach (raw): -1.5
• potato (cooked): -1.7
• pumpkin (cooked): -1.9
• cucumber (raw): -2.0
• kale (raw): -2.6
• radish (raw): -4.7
• beets (raw): -5.4

You may choose to avoid drinks high in phosphorus, such as beer or hot chocolate made from packets of cocoa mix. If you do wish to drink alcohol, go with lower phosphorus red or white wine.

Carbonic acid, which is present in all carbonated beverages, contributes to your total body acid. This includes not only soft drinks but also sparkling waters and spritzers.

If you want to lower your acidity, regular or filtered tap water is best.

When it comes to the benefits of a more alkaline diet, research from 2012 says that no conclusive evidence suggests it improves bone health.

However, it may help limit muscle loss, strengthen memory and alertness, and help you live longer.

Some alkalizing (or neutral) foods and beverages you can incorporate into your diet include:

• soy, such as miso, soybeans, tofu, and tempeh
• yogurt and milk
• most fresh vegetables, including potatoes
• most fruits
• herbs and spices, excluding salt, mustard, and nutmeg
• beans and lentils
• some whole grains, such as millet, quinoa, and amaranth
• herbal teas
• fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds

A diet that includes too many acid-producing foods, such as animal proteins, some cheeses, and carbonated beverages, can cause acidity in your urine and other negative health effects. This can cause uric acid stones (a type of kidney stone) to form.

Researchers continue to debate the role diet plays in affecting the pH of your blood and what effects that might have on your body.

Some experts have speculated that too much acidity can also cause bone deterioration. This is because bones contain calcium, which your body uses to restore your blood’s pH balance when it becomes too acidic.

However, keep in mind that research has turned up conflicting results on how acidic foods may affect bone health due to the variations in total diet among test subjects.

Some evidence suggests that phosphoric acid, commonly found in darker sodas, is linked to lower bone density when it replaces milk, a calcium- and protein-rich beverage.

A 2017 research review notes that overly acidic diets can contribute to low-grade acidosis. The authors state even a small reduction in pH over long periods can have negative health effects, such as:

• high blood pressure
• type 2 diabetes
• nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Other research suggests that too much acidity may also increase your it’s for cancer and heart disease.

You don’t need to eliminate acidic foods from your diet to safeguard your health.

Consuming moderate amounts of acid-producing foods as part of a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of alkalizing fruits and vegetables is unlikely to cause muscle and bone loss or increase your risk of chronic disease.

Consuming more alkaline foods may help you better achieve nutritional goals as established in the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. According to research from 2023, people who consume a diet with a negative PRAL (meaning it’s more alkaline) meet more nutritional goals than those on a diet with a positive PRAL (more acidic).

Research from 2022 also recommends consuming less salt and carbonated beverages.

What are the symptoms of too much acid in your diet?

A diet that’s too acidic often doesn’t present any symptoms. Most of the potential negative health effects build up over the long term.

Symptoms of acidosis usually indicate an underlying health condition. Such symptoms include:

• rapid heart rate
• headaches
• fatigue
• confusion
• nausea and vomiting

Which acidic foods should I limit?

Aim to limit these foods since they may affect your acid-base balance or your health in negative ways:

• salt
• high sodium condiments, such as soy sauce, steak sauce, barbecue sauce, and some salad dressings
• certain types of cheese, including mozzarella, Parmesan, and brie
• grains, such as corn, rice, and wheat

Is an alkaline diet beneficial for your health?

Eating a balanced diet with a focus on low PRAL foods may be better for your overall health. But an alkaline diet can limit healthy foods while not having much effect on your body’s pH.

Because your body closely regulates its pH balance through a series of complicated mechanisms, following an alkaline diet is unlikely to significantly affect the blood pH levels of most healthy adults.

Still, eating a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is a great way to help balance your dietary acid load and support overall health.

Enjoying plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh in place of animal proteins in your diet from time to time can also be beneficial.

Nutrition with elevated uric acid: what can you eat?

Content

• 1 What to eat with high uric acid
  • 1.1 Symptoms and causes of high uric acid
    • 1.1.1 Symptoms of high uric acid
    • 1.1.2 Causes of high uric acid
  • 1.2 The role of nutrition in the regulation uric acid levels
  • 1.3 Main foods that can be consumed
  • 1.4 Vegetables and fruits recommended for high uric acid
  • 1.5 Protein foods that can be included in the diet
  • 1.6 Fats and carbohydrates: what to choose
    • 1.6.1 Fats:
    • 1.6.2 Carbohydrates:
  • 1.7 Video on the topic:
  • 1.8 Question-answer:
    • • 1.8.0.1 What foods should be excluded from the diet in case of high uric acid?
      • 1.8.0.2 What foods can you eat if you have high uric acid?
      • 1. 8.0.3 What is uric acid and why can it be elevated?
      • 1.8.0.4 What symptoms may indicate high uric acid?
      • 1.8.0.5 How does diet affect the level of uric acid in the body?
  • 1.9 Foods to limit or avoid
  • 1.10 Water and other drinks to maintain normal uric acid levels acids. Get advice on healthy eating and avoid foods that can make your condition worse.

    Elevated uric acid in the body can lead to various diseases such as gout or urolithiasis. However, proper nutrition can help lower uric acid levels and prevent the development of these diseases.

    It is important to consider that the diet for high uric acid should be balanced and include a variety of foods. Some foods can help lower uric acid levels, while others can increase it. It is also important to take into account the individual characteristics of the body and consult a doctor or nutritionist before changing the diet.

    One of the key foods to include in the diet for high uric acid is vegetables. They are rich in fiber and vitamins and also help to reduce the level of uric acid in the body. High alkaline vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, spinach and broccoli are especially beneficial.

    Fruit is also recommended as it contains many vitamins and antioxidants that help fight high uric acid. Especially useful are citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and grapefruits, which help to increase the level of alkali in the body.

    Dairy products are also recommended as they contain a lot of calcium, which helps to reduce uric acid levels. However, you should opt for low-fat dairy products such as skim milk or yogurt to avoid excessive fat intake.

    Symptoms and causes of high uric acid

    High uric acid, or hyperuricemia, occurs when the level of uric acid in the blood becomes higher than normal. This condition can be associated with various diseases, as well as with an unhealthy lifestyle and diet.

    High uric acid symptoms

    High uric acid levels can lead to gout, an inflammatory disease characterized by painful and swollen joints. The main symptoms of gout are:

    • Acute joint pain, usually in the big toe;
    • Swelling and redness of the skin in the area of ​​the affected joint;
    • Restriction of movement in the joint due to pain and swelling;
    • Hypersensitivity of the skin around the joint;
    • Increased temperature in the area of ​​the affected joint.

    In addition to gout, elevated uric acid can lead to urinary stones, which can cause kidney colic, urinary pain, and blood in the urine.

    Causes of high uric acid

    High uric acid can be caused by a number of factors:

    1. Genetic Predisposition: Some people may be more susceptible to high uric acid due to hereditary factors.
    2. Diet: Eating foods rich in purines can lead to an increase in uric acid levels. Purine is found in foods such as meat (especially entrails), seafood, alcohol, especially beer.
    3. Obesity: being overweight can increase uric acid levels.
    4. Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can increase uric acid levels.
    5. Certain medicines: Some medicines, such as diuretics and niacin preparations, can increase uric acid levels.

    It is important to note that elevated uric acid may be associated with other conditions such as kidney disease, metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Therefore, if you have symptoms of high uric acid, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

    The role of nutrition in the regulation of uric acid levels

    The level of uric acid in the body is an important indicator of health. Its normal content contributes to the normal functioning of organs and systems, while elevated levels of uric acid can lead to various problems and diseases, including gout.

    Diet plays an important role in the regulation of uric acid levels. Some foods may help increase your levels, while others may help lower them. Below is a list of foods that are recommended for high uric acid:

    • Fruit: Most fruits are alkaline and can help lower uric acid levels. Especially recommended are apples, pears, grapes, cherries and oranges.
    • Vegetables: Vegetables are also alkaline and can help lower uric acid levels. Potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, broccoli and spinach are recommended.
    • Greens: Greens such as parsley, basil, and mint are also alkaline in nature and may help lower uric acid levels.
    • Dairy products: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheeses can help lower uric acid levels. They contain alkaline salts, which contribute to the normalization of its level.

    It should be noted that in case of high uric acid, it is recommended to limit the consumption of foods that can contribute to its increase. These foods include meat, seafood, alcohol, sodas and coffee. It is also recommended to limit the intake of foods rich in purines, such as herring, mussels, peas and spinach.

    It is important to remember that the regulation of uric acid levels through nutrition should be coordinated with a physician or nutritionist. They will be able to determine the optimal diet and recommendations, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases.

    Key Foods to Eat

    When you have high uric acid, it is important to watch your diet and choose foods that will help reduce acid levels in the body. Here are the main foods that can be consumed in this condition:

    • Low acid fruits: apples, pears, bananas, apricots, peaches.
    • Low acid vegetables: potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, broccoli, spinach.
    • Dairy products: low-fat dairy products such as yogurt, cottage cheese, kefir.
    • Cereals: oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat, wheat.
    • Protein: chicken, turkey, fish, eggs.
    • Nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, flax seeds.
    • Greens: parsley, basil, cilantro, dill.

    It is important to remember that if you have high uric acid, you should also limit your intake of foods that can increase the acidity of the body. This includes spicy and fatty foods, alcohol, sodas, coffee and chocolate.

    By following the right diet, you can reduce the level of uric acid in the body and improve your health.

    Vegetables and fruits recommended for high uric acid

    For high uric acid, it is important to choose the right nutrition in order to reduce the level of acid in the body. Vegetables and fruits play an important role in such a diet because they are low in purines, which can lead to high uric acid.

    Here are some vegetables and fruits that are recommended for high uric acid:

    • Cucumbers: Cucumbers are high in water and low in purines, making them ideal for high uric acid. They also help in enhancing kidney function and removing excess acid from the body.
    • Pumpkin: Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help lower uric acid levels. It is also an excellent source of water, which helps in cleansing the kidneys.
    • Broccoli: Broccoli contains vitamin C and calcium, which help in reducing uric acid levels. It is also rich in fiber, which helps to normalize bowel function and remove acid from the body.
    • Apples: Apples contain pectin, which helps cleanse the kidneys and remove uric acid. They are also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that boost the immune system.
    • Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, which helps in lowering uric acid levels. They also contain a lot of water, which helps to hydrate the body and remove acid through the urine.

    In addition to these vegetables and fruits, it is recommended to eat more greens such as spinach, lettuce and parsley, which also help in lowering uric acid levels.

    It is important to remember that with high uric acid it is necessary to avoid vegetables and fruits that contain high amounts of purines, such as spinach, mushrooms, mushrooms, chocolate, alcohol and carbonated drinks. You should also pay attention to your individual response to certain foods and consult a doctor or nutritionist to develop the most appropriate diet.

    Protein foods that can be included in the diet

    When uric acid is elevated, special attention should be paid to the choice of protein foods so as not to harm the body and not aggravate symptoms. The following products can be included in the diet:

    • Chicken meat – Animal proteins are the main source of amino acids needed to renew body cells. However, lean parts of the chicken should be preferred and the skin should be removed before cooking.
    • Fish – Fish proteins contain less purines than meat proteins, so fish is a good source of protein for people with high uric acid. Particularly beneficial are fish varieties rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel.
    • Soy and Soy-Based Products – Soy products such as tofu and soy milk are an excellent source of plant-based protein and can be included in the diet for people with high uric acid.
    • Eggs – eggs are a complete source of protein and can be included in the diet for high uric acid, however, the yolk should be consumed in moderation, as it contains more purines.

    Protein foods should be consumed in reasonable amounts and in combination with other healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits and grains. It is important to remember that with elevated uric acid, it is recommended to monitor the overall diet and avoid excesses in protein intake.

    Fats and carbohydrates: what to choose

    With high uric acid, it is important to choose the right fats and carbohydrates in your diet. Certain foods can increase uric acid levels and should therefore be limited or eliminated from the diet. At the same time, there are foods that can help lower uric acid levels and improve overall health.

    Fats:

    For high uric acid, it is recommended to consume fats rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. They help lower uric acid levels and have anti-inflammatory effects. Such fats are found in fish (salmon, tuna), nuts (walnuts, almonds), flax seeds and chia.

    Carbohydrates:

    In case of high uric acid, carbohydrates with a low glycemic index are recommended. These carbohydrates help maintain stable blood glucose levels and help reduce uric acid levels. Include vegetables (broccoli, spinach, kale), berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries) and whole grains (oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat) in your diet.

    Also pay attention to the intake of sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which helps to reduce the level of uric acid. Include fruits (oranges, grapefruits, kiwi), vegetables (peppers, broccoli, cabbage) and greens (parsley, dill) in your diet.

    Example food list: FatsCarbohydrates

    Fish (salmon, tuna) Nuts (walnuts, almonds) Flax seeds Chia seeds

    Vegetables (broccoli, spinach, cabbage ) Berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries) Whole grains (oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat)

    Related videos:

    9 0072 Q&A:

    What foods should be excluded from the diet in case of high uric acid?

    If you have high uric acid, it is recommended to avoid foods high in purines from your diet. These are the meat of the liver, kidneys, heart, bacon, brain, smoked meats, sausages, sausages, salted and pickled foods, chocolate, coffee, strong tea, red wine and beer.

    What foods can be eaten with high uric acid?

    In case of high uric acid, it is recommended to eat foods rich in potassium, such as fruits (apples, pears, oranges, bananas), vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers), herbs (parsley, dill), cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal) , dairy products (cottage cheese, yogurt), fish (cod, pike perch) and seafood.

    What is uric acid and why can it be elevated?

    Uric acid is a metabolic product of purines, which is formed in the body during the breakdown of cells. Uric acid levels can rise due to kidney problems, certain medications, and metabolic disorders.

    What symptoms may indicate high uric acid?

    Elevated uric acid can present with symptoms such as joint pain and inflammation (gout), kidney stones (urolithiasis), fatigue, sleep disturbances, and kidney problems.

    How does diet affect the level of uric acid in the body?

    Nutrition plays an important role in the regulation of uric acid levels in the body. When eating foods rich in purines, uric acid levels can rise, which can lead to various diseases. Therefore, it is recommended to monitor the diet and exclude from it foods containing a large amount of purines.

    Foods to Limit or Avoid

    If you have high uric acid, it is recommended to limit your intake of the following foods:

    • Meat and fish: avoid eating large amounts of meat and fish, especially those rich in purines. This includes red meat (beef, lamb), organ meats (liver, kidney), seafood (oysters, shrimp, crayfish), sardines, anchovies, and caviar.
    • Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase the level of uric acid in the body.
    • Sweets: Reduce your intake of sugary foods as they can increase your uric acid levels.
    • Carbonated drinks: Avoid carbonated drinks as they can affect uric acid levels.
    • Caffeine: Limit caffeine intake as it can affect uric acid levels.

    It is also worth paying attention to the amount of consumed foods, especially those recognized as high purine, such as meat and fish. Moderate consumption of these foods may be acceptable, but it is important to monitor their quantity and overall diet.

    Water and other drinks to maintain normal uric acid levels

    When uric acid levels are elevated in the body, it is especially important to choose the right drinks to maintain normal acidity. Water is the main and most important drink for this purpose. Lack of water can lead to the formation and accumulation of uric acid in the body, so drinking plenty of water regularly is essential to maintain normal uric acid levels.

    In addition to water, there are other drinks that can help fight high uric acid. For example:

    • Green tea. Green tea has antioxidant properties and helps reduce uric acid levels in the body. It also helps improve metabolism and supports normal liver function.
    • Citrus juices. Citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges are high in vitamin C, which helps break down uric acid and eliminate it from the body.
    • Berry juices. Berries such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries contain antioxidants and fiber that help lower uric acid levels.

    However, it is worth remembering that with high uric acid, it is not recommended to drink drinks containing a large amount of sugar or alcohol. They can contribute to the formation and retention of uric acid in the body.

    It is important to remember that proper nutrition and regular drinking of sufficient water are essential to maintain normal uric acid levels. If you have elevated uric acid levels, be sure to consult with your doctor or nutritionist to develop a personalized meal plan and choose the most appropriate drinks for you.

    What are low acid fruits?

    According to WebMD, some examples of low acid fruits include melon family fruits and bananas. Watermelon, melon, and honeydew melon are low in acid. Many non-citrus fruits may be suitable for those on a low acid diet.

    Other examples of low acid fruits include figs, pears, dates, persimmons and papaya. Generally, if the food is acidic, it is likely to have more acid in it. The way fruit is cooked can also affect its acid content. Low acid cooking methods include pickling, drying, freezing, and, depending on the recipe, canning. Canning often requires the addition of acid to foods to keep them from spoiling, so it is important to avoid eating these foods unless preparation methods are known.

    Fruit and all other foods are classified as low acid foods if their pH is between 4.6 and 6.9. Foods with a pH level of 7.0 or higher are considered alkaline, while foods with a pH of 4.5 or lower are considered acidic.

    According to WebMD, a low-acid diet may help relieve symptoms of heartburn or other acid-related conditions. Most vegetables and grains are also low in acid, including oatmeal, whole grain bread, meat, eggs, and fish.

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