Fruits and vegetables low in acid. Best Low-Acid Fruits and Vegetables for Managing Acid Reflux Symptoms
Which fruits and vegetables are best for people with acid reflux. How can changing your diet help manage GERD symptoms. What are the top low-acid produce options to incorporate into your meals. How do bananas, melons, and berries impact acid reflux.
Understanding Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. When this happens frequently, it may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). But what exactly causes this uncomfortable condition?
GERD develops when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) – a muscular ring that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach – becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately. This allows stomach contents to flow back (reflux) into the esophagus.
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Chronic cough
The Role of Diet in Managing Acid Reflux
Can dietary changes really make a difference for those suffering from acid reflux? Absolutely. While medication and lifestyle modifications play crucial roles, adjusting your diet can significantly alleviate symptoms.
Dr. Judith Scott, a physician at Methodist Women’s Hospital in Omaha, NE, emphasizes that being overweight is the biggest risk factor for GERD. Excess weight puts additional pressure on the abdominal area, which in turn stresses the LES, leading to more frequent acid reflux episodes.
However, weight loss alone may not be sufficient. Removing highly acidic foods from your diet is often a necessary first step. Dr. Scott notes, “Most of my patients find that highly acidic foods like tomatoes, pineapple, and spicy foods make their GERD symptoms worse.” These high-acid foods can irritate the lining of your stomach and esophagus, exacerbating symptoms.
Low-Acid Fruits for Acid Reflux Relief
Incorporating low-acid fruits into your diet can provide essential nutrients without aggravating your digestive system. Here are some top choices:
Bananas: Nature’s Fast Food
Why are bananas considered an excellent choice for those with acid reflux? With a pH of around 5.0, bananas are less acidic than many other fruits. They’re also:
- Easy to digest
- High in potassium
- Rich in dietary fiber
Melons: Hydrating and Alkaline
Watermelons and cantaloupes are not only refreshing but also beneficial for those with acid reflux. These melons are:
- High on the pH scale (less acidic)
- Rich in vitamins
- Low in calories
- Hydrating due to high water content
Berries: Antioxidant Powerhouses
Can people with acid reflux enjoy berries? Many can, especially blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. These fruits are:
- High in pH (less acidic)
- Packed with antioxidants
- Rich in essential vitamins
However, it’s important to note that strawberries topped the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list of pesticide-laden produce in 2018. Opting for organic strawberries when possible may be beneficial.
Tropical Fruits for Acid Reflux Management
Several tropical fruits can be excellent choices for those managing acid reflux symptoms:
Coconuts: A Versatile Low-Acid Option
Coconuts are gaining recognition for their potential health benefits. They are:
- One of the least acidic fruits
- Linked to improved brain function
- Associated with heart health benefits
Papayas: Tropical Goodness with Low Acidity
Papayas offer a taste of the tropics while being gentle on the digestive system. They are:
- Low in acid
- Rich in carotenes and vitamin C
- Available fresh, frozen, or dried
Stone Fruits for Acid Reflux Relief
Certain stone fruits can be well-tolerated by those with acid reflux:
Nectarines and Peaches: Nutrient-Rich Options
Both nectarines and peaches offer numerous benefits:
- High in pH (less acidic)
- Packed with essential vitamins
- Rich in antioxidants
For optimal health benefits and to minimize pesticide exposure, consider purchasing organic nectarines and peaches when possible.
Dates and Figs: Natural Sweeteners
Dates and figs are relatively low-acid fruits that can add natural sweetness to your diet. They can be used to:
- Sweeten baked goods
- Enhance smoothies
- Add flavor to granola
Low-Acid Vegetables for Acid Reflux Management
While fruits often get the spotlight, incorporating low-acid vegetables into your diet is equally important for managing acid reflux symptoms.
Leafy Greens: Nutrient Powerhouses
Leafy greens are excellent choices for those with acid reflux. Options include:
- Spinach
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Chard
These vegetables are low in acid, high in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients. They can help neutralize stomach acid and promote healthy digestion.
Root Vegetables: Comforting and Alkaline
Many root vegetables are well-tolerated by those with acid reflux. Consider incorporating:
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Turnips
These vegetables are not only low in acid but also rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, which can help absorb excess stomach acid.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Nutrient-Dense Options
Cruciferous vegetables can be beneficial for those managing acid reflux. Options include:
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
These vegetables are low in acid and high in fiber. However, some individuals may find that cruciferous vegetables cause gas or bloating, so it’s important to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
Implementing Dietary Changes for Acid Reflux Relief
How can you effectively incorporate these low-acid fruits and vegetables into your diet? Here are some practical tips:
- Gradual Introduction: Slowly introduce new foods to your diet to identify which ones work best for you.
- Portion Control: Even low-acid foods can trigger symptoms if consumed in large quantities. Practice moderation.
- Meal Timing: Avoid eating large meals close to bedtime to reduce nighttime reflux.
- Food Combinations: Pay attention to how different food combinations affect your symptoms.
- Cooking Methods: Opt for grilling, baking, or steaming instead of frying to reduce fat content, which can exacerbate reflux.
Remember, acid reflux is often the result of multiple factors, not just the consumption of certain foods. It’s crucial to work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan that may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medication if necessary.
Beyond Diet: Holistic Approaches to Managing Acid Reflux
While diet plays a crucial role in managing acid reflux, it’s important to consider other lifestyle factors that can impact your symptoms:
Stress Management
Can stress exacerbate acid reflux symptoms? Research suggests it can. Consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Yoga
- Regular exercise
Sleep Position
How you sleep can significantly impact acid reflux symptoms. Try these strategies:
- Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches
- Sleep on your left side to reduce reflux episodes
- Avoid eating close to bedtime
Clothing Choices
Believe it or not, your wardrobe can influence your acid reflux symptoms. Consider:
- Avoiding tight-fitting clothes around the abdomen
- Opting for loose, comfortable clothing
- Removing belts or other constricting accessories after meals
By combining dietary changes with these lifestyle modifications, many individuals find significant relief from their acid reflux symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to be patient, observant, and willing to make adjustments as you discover what works best for your body.
The Importance of Personalized Approach to Acid Reflux Management
While general guidelines can be helpful, it’s crucial to recognize that acid reflux management is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each individual’s digestive system is unique, and what triggers symptoms in one person may be well-tolerated by another.
Food Journaling
How can you identify your specific triggers? Keeping a food journal can be an invaluable tool. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Record everything you eat and drink
- Note the time of each meal or snack
- Document any symptoms that occur
- Look for patterns over time
Working with Healthcare Professionals
While dietary changes can be incredibly beneficial, it’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals. They can:
- Provide personalized dietary advice
- Recommend appropriate medications if needed
- Monitor your progress and adjust treatment as necessary
- Rule out other underlying conditions
Remember, managing acid reflux is often a journey of trial and error. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this process, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.
The Future of Acid Reflux Management: Emerging Research and Treatments
As our understanding of acid reflux and GERD continues to evolve, new approaches to management are emerging. Here are some areas of ongoing research:
Microbiome and Acid Reflux
How does gut bacteria influence acid reflux? Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiome may play a role in GERD development and severity. Future treatments may include:
- Probiotics tailored for GERD management
- Dietary interventions to promote beneficial gut bacteria
- Medications that target specific microbial imbalances
Genetic Factors
Is there a genetic component to acid reflux? Researchers are exploring genetic markers that may predispose individuals to GERD. This could lead to:
- More personalized treatment plans
- Earlier interventions for at-risk individuals
- New targeted therapies
Advanced Surgical Techniques
For those with severe GERD that doesn’t respond to lifestyle changes and medication, new surgical options are being developed. These include:
- Minimally invasive procedures
- Implantable devices to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter
- Endoscopic techniques for GERD treatment
As research progresses, individuals with acid reflux and GERD can look forward to more effective and personalized treatment options. However, the foundation of management will likely continue to include dietary and lifestyle modifications, with low-acid fruits and vegetables playing a key role in symptom relief and overall digestive health.
Low-Acid Fruits for Acid Reflux
Medically Reviewed
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.
The Best Fruits and Vegetables for Acid Reflux
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You know the feeling. You’ve just eaten a big holiday meal, or nice dinner out with friends, and you’re ready to kick back and enjoy a drink by the fire… but your stomach has other ideas. One small hiccup or burp, and suddenly a flash of acidic bile makes its way into your esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth with your stomach. The painful burning sensation it causes is known as acid reflux. Occasional bouts of acid reflux happen to a lot of people, but if you experience it twice a week or more, you may have a condition called GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) which occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a small flap at the bottom of the esophagus that opens and closes to allow food into the stomach, becomes weak or relaxes more than it should. This allows stomach acid to creep up into your esophagus, causing chronic irritation to the esophageal lining.
How Diet Changes Help
How Diet Changes Can Help You Manage Acid Reflux
If you are living with GERD and experiencing frequent cases of acid reflux, going all-in on a healthy diet can help. “Being overweight is the biggest risk factor for GERD,” says Judith Scott, D.O., a physician at Methodist Women’s Hospital in Omaha, NE. Excess weight puts additional pressure on your abdominal area, Dr. Scott explains, which in turn puts pressure on the faulty flap that leaks more acidic bile into your esophagus.
But changing your diet for weight loss alone may not be enough to improve your GERD symptoms. You may also want to remove highly acidic foods from your diet as a first step to alleviating acid reflux symptoms. “Most of my patients find that highly acidic foods like tomatoes, pineapple, and spicy foods make their GERD symptoms worse,” Dr. Scott notes. These high-acid foods can irritate the lining of your stomach and esophagus, exacerbating your symptoms. The next step? Adding in low-acidic fruits, vegetables, and other healthy options that provide quality nutrition without aggravating your digestive system.
Low-Acid Produce
Fruits and Vegetables for Acid Reflux
It can be a bit of a guessing game trying to figure out which produce to eat or avoid, as they can vary greatly in their acidity levels. If you’re looking for low-acidic produce to add to your diet to improve your acid reflux symptoms, these are a few to try.
Melons
The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) recommends including fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew melon in your diet because of their very low acid content. Melons also contain heart-healthy potassium and vitamins A and C (antioxidants with properties that help fight inflammation). Watermelon is a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that reduces cell damage and may play a role in cancer prevention. While melons are typically a summertime snack, you can slice and freeze them to enjoy them all year long.
Bananas
Bananas are low-acid fruits. They are also rich in potassium, an electrolyte that plays an important role in helping your muscles function properly for everything from walking to carrying bags and climbing stairs. Bananas are a good source of fiber (3 grams per medium banana), which helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. And the calmer your digestive system is, the lower the risk for acidic backwash. Slice a banana to top your morning cereal or yogurt, or peel and freeze them once they become ripe to use in a fruit smoothie. Ripe bananas are also a great replacement for oil in baked goods if you are looking to decrease your dietary fat intake.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are low in acidity and high in a host of nutrients that can really move the needle on your overall health. These greens, known as superfoods, are rich in vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene (the pre-cursor to vitamin A), and contain health-protective and cancer-fighting compounds. Enjoy your greens raw in a salad or sauté them for a few minutes in olive oil for a delicious dinner side dish. Or toss a handful of kale or spinach into the blender when you’re making your favorite low-acid green smoothie for an added nutritional boost. More healthy, low-acidic snack alternatives for people with acid reflux: Tear kale into pieces, spray with non-stick cooking spray, and sprinkle with a dash of sea salt. Bake them in the oven for a tasty chip that’s significantly lower in calories and fat than the traditional version.
Broccoli
In addition to its low acidity, broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, folate (which can reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke), potassium, and vitamin K (which aids in blood clotting). It is low in calories and contains the antioxidants lutein and sulforaphane, which may have a role in cancer prevention. Broccoli is easy to prepare by steaming it in water in the microwave, or you can drizzle the florets with olive oil and Kosher salt and roast them in the oven for more flavor.
Avocados
Avocados go down easy in more ways than one: These low-acidic fruits (yes, they are actually fruit) are smooth and creamy, making for an easy passage down your esophagus—important for people with acid reflux who often experience inflammation or irritation of their esophageal lining. Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados are also packed with vitamins C, E, K, and B6 and plenty of fiber (about 14 grams per avocado). If that’s not enough, avocados also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, phytochemicals that are beneficial for eye health. Slice and add to sandwiches or salads or mash an avocado and use it as a substitute for oil in your favorite baked goods recipe.
Potatoes
Although you might not think of them as such, technically speaking, potatoes are starchy vegetables. Their low acidity makes them a great choice for people dealing with GERD and acid reflux; what’s more, potatoes contain a starch that may decrease inflammation in the intestines and improve digestive health, lessening the likelihood of acid reflux. Potatoes are a boon to your overall health as well with their high fiber and protein content, as well as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.
But how you prepare your potatoes matters: The oil in French fries can upset your gut and lead to acid reflux, as can loading them down with ketchup (see: tomatoes are not your friend with GERD). Instead, slice a potato, sprinkle with herbs, and bake the wedges in the oven until golden brown. Another safe bet: Top your baked potato with steamed broccoli and low-fat cheese.
How to Tell
How to Tell If Fruits and Vegetables Will Trigger Acid Reflux
Every person is unique, so some people living with GERD may be able to tolerate acidic fruits and vegetables in small amounts. For example, you may be able to have a thin slice of fresh tomato on a sandwich, but a glass of tomato juice or pasta with tomato sauce might give you acid reflux. What’s more, “certain foods can be irritants, like chocolate, tea, coffee, and peppermint—and may also be acid reflux culprits, which surprises many people,” says Kelly McGrath, R.D., a registered dietitian with the VA Maryland Healthcare System in Baltimore, MD.
It’s not always possible to know what will trigger acid reflux, but some common culprits include: Eating large amounts of fruit and vegetables at once, eating them along with fatty foods, and eating fruits and vegetables that have been fried. What you drink along with your fruits and vegetables matters, too. Both alcohol and caffeinated beverages like coffee may trigger symptoms of GERD.
It can take some trial and error to figure out which foods you can tolerate with acid reflux, and in what amount. Keeping a food diary can help you track times of day or types of meal preparation that either help or worsen your GERD symptoms. It can be a frustrating process, but eventually, most people with GERD find ways to get their acid reflux under control. Until then, banana-kale smoothie, anyone?
Notes: This article was originally published November 12, 2021 and most recently updated November 13, 2021.
Causes of GERD: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020.) “Symptoms and Causes of GER and GERD.” https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/symptoms-causes
Nutrients in Broccoli: Preventive Nutrition and Food Science. (2014.) “Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Broccoli Florets in LPS-stimulated RAW 264. 7 Cells.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103733/
Avocados and Eye Health: Nutrients. (2017.) “ Avocado Consumption Increases Macular Pigment Density in Older Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5622679/
Potatoes and Digestive Health: American Journal of Potato Research. (2018.) “Potatoes, Nutrition, and Health.” https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12230-018-09705-4
Our Review Process
foods to limit or avoid
- Acidity test
- High acid foods and drinks
- Fruits and juices
- Vegetables
- Drinks
- Low acid foods
- Effects
- Prevention
Organism hard regulates its pH balance through various mechanisms that involve several organs, such as the kidneys and lungs.
Although your diet can affect your urine pH, studies generally show that eating acidic or alkaline foods is unlikely to have a significant impact on your blood pH.
Elevated blood acid usually indicates an underlying health problem, such as poorly managed diabetes, lung disease, or kidney problems.
However, some people may choose to limit their intake of high acid foods to reduce their potential kidney acid load (PRAL), which refers to the amount of acid your body makes from the foods you eat. The higher the PRAL rating, the more acid is produced during digestion.
What is acidity?
The pH value tells you if something is acidic, alkaline or neutral.
- A pH value of 0 indicates a high level of acidity.
- PH 7 neutral.
- PH 14 is the most alkaline or alkaline.
The distance between two points on the pH scale indicates a tenfold difference in the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. PH 6 is ten times more acidic than pH 7, etc.
For example, battery acid is extremely acidic at 0 and liquid drain cleaner is very alkaline at 14. Pure distilled water is in the middle at 7. It is not is neither acidic nor alkaline.
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. The stomach is usually acidic at pH 3.5, which helps break down food properly.
High acid foods and drinks
Foods that are considered acidic usually have a pH of 4.6 or lower.
Foods that cause acidity in the body that you may want to limit or avoid include:
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A keto diet plan and menu that can change your body
- certain dairy products, including cheese
- fish and seafood
- high-sodium processed foods
- fresh and processed meats, such as corned beef and turkey 900 05
- certain starchy foods, such as brown rice, oatmeal, or muesli
- carbonated drinks, such as carbonated drinks, seltzer, or spirits.
- High Protein Foods and Animal Protein Supplements
Research to support a link between foods such as animal protein and chronic disease due to pH changes in the body is limited.
New research may shed more light on this link or reveal other reasons why cutting back on animal products is good for your health.
High Acid Fruits
Although most fruits are acidic, they are considered alkalizing, which means they help reduce acid levels in the body.
This also means they have a negative PRAL, which is a value used to estimate the amount of acid produced during digestion for certain foods.
Here is the PRAL for a 3.5 ounce serving of several popular fruits:
- limes: -0.4
- plums: -1.7
- green grapes: -2.4
- purple grapes : -1.9
- pomegranates: -8.1
- blueberries: -0.6
- pineapples: -1.1
- apples: -1.8
- peaches: -1.5
- oranges: -1.6
- tomatoes: -1.8
- raisins: -9.0
- blackberries: -1.0
- banana: -5.2
Be aware that although these fruits cause alkalinization in the body, their initial acidity may worsen symptoms in people with upper gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers or reflux.
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People with conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are often advised to limit their intake of acidic foods, including citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes.
Fresh vegetables
Like fruits, vegetables are also considered alkalizing and can help reduce acid levels in the body.
Here is the PRAL for a 3.5 ounce serving of some common vegetables:
- white cabbage (raw): -1.5
- beets (raw): -5.4
- shiitake mushrooms (cooked): -0.2
- cabbage (raw): -2.6 ): -1.5
- cucumber (raw): -2.0
- potatoes (cooked): -1.7
- radishes (raw): -4.7
- pumpkin (cooked): -1.9
- arugula (raw): -1.1
- artichoke (cooked): -0.5
High acid drinks
from packages with cocoa mixture. If you still want to drink alcohol, choose red or white wine that is low in phosphorus.
Carbonic acid, which is present in all carbonated drinks, including not only soft drinks, but also soda and spritzers, contributes to an increase in the acidity of your body.
If you want to reduce acidity, regular or filtered tap water is best.
Low acid foods
Regarding the benefits of a more alkaline diet, studies published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health show that there is no strong evidence that it improves bone health.
However, it can help limit muscle loss, improve memory and alertness, and help you live longer.
Some alkalizing (or neutral) foods and drinks that you can include in your diet include: , soybeans, tofu and tempeh
9 0004 fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds
Consequences of eating too many acid-producing foods
A diet that includes too many acid-producing foods, such as animal proteins, certain cheeses, and carbonated drinks, can cause acidity in the urine, as well as other negative health effects. This can cause a type of stone called uric acid to form in the kidneys.
It has been suggested that too much acidity can also cause bone and muscle deterioration. This is because bones contain calcium, which your body uses to restore the pH balance of your blood when it becomes too acidic.
However, be aware that studies have shown conflicting results on how acidic foods can affect bone and muscle health due to differences in overall diet among subjects.
In addition, eating moderate amounts of high acid foods as part of a healthy, balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables is unlikely to cause muscle and bone loss or increase the risk of chronic disease.
Some evidence suggests that phosphoric acid, commonly found in darker sodas, is associated with lower bone density when it replaces milk, a calcium- and protein-rich drink. Too much acidity can also increase the risk of cancer, liver problems, and heart disease.
Some foods and drinks produce less acid than soda or protein, but they still don’t have the strong alkalizing effect found in most fruits and vegetables. Experts don’t always agree on exact product listings.
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17 foods to avoid if you have kidney disease
Try to limit your intake of these foods as they may affect your acid-base balance or adversely affect your health.:
- table salt
- certain types of cheese, including mozzarella, parmesan and brie
- grains such as corn, rice and wheat
such as soy sauce, steak sauce, barbecue sauce and some salad dressings
A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats is a great way to balance the acid load in your diet and support overall health.
It is also a good idea to occasionally eat plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh in place of animal proteins.
Nutrient-rich foods such as cow’s milk can also provide several important bone health nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and magnesium.
Prevention
UC San Diego researchers suggest eating more sources of alkaline foods like fruits and vegetables in a 3:1 ratio.
The pH of food before meals is less important than the amount of acid or alkali produced during digestion and metabolism of this food.
In rare cases, the pH of the urine may be too alkaline. However, in the United States, too much acid tends to be a more common problem. This is due to the fact that the usual diet contains more animal protein and grains, but not enough fruits and vegetables.
Higher prescription drug use also exacerbates the problem.
Summary
Because the body carefully regulates its pH balance through a series of complex mechanisms, following an alkaline diet is unlikely to significantly affect blood pH levels in most healthy adults.
A still balanced diet that includes more fruits, vegetables, dairy milk and yogurt, more vegetable protein sources, and limited processed foods may be helpful in maintaining normal acid-base balance and overall health.
Here’s the Vegan Keto Diet Guide
Eating more fruits and vegetables and limiting animal and high-sodium foods may or may not help balance your body’s pH levels.
Switching to a more plant-based eating plan has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic disease.
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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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