Acidic fruits

Both acidic and alkaline fruits have their place in a balanced diet. But if you’re dealing with acid reflux, sticking to low-acid options may help prevent symptoms. That might mean saying goodbye to a few favorites, although there are still plenty of less acidic choices to enjoy.

Acid or alkaline?

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, measuring how acidic or alkaline something is. A pH of 0 is extremely acidic (think battery acid), while a 14 is highly alkaline, like drain cleaner. Foods fall somewhere in between.

Neutral pH is 7, with anything lower being acidic and anything higher being alkaline. Most foods are naturally a bit acidic, and some — especially certain fruits — are more acidic than others.

Why should we avoid too many acidic foods?

Eating a lot of acidic foods can aggravate conditions like acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). During reflux, stomach acid can travel back up into the oesophagus, often triggering heartburn or a sour taste in the mouth — particularly when lying down or during sleep.

Acidic foods tend to boost stomach acid production, which may worsen these symptoms.

They can also do a number on your teeth. When you eat or drink something that’s low in pH — like citrus fruit — it can soften enamel and cause mineral loss. Incorporating acidic fruits into meals rather than eating them on their own can help limit enamel damage.

Will eating acidic fruits make my body more acidic?

Even though the body maintains a slightly alkaline pH of around 7.4, some worry that eating acidic foods could change this. But that’s actually a myth.

Stomach acid naturally sits at around pH 1.7 — that acidity helps break down food. However, your overall body pH doesn’t shift based on what you eat. The body has its own systems to regulate pH levels. The only short-term change happens in the stomach, not throughout the body.

Are bananas acidic?

With a pH around 5, bananas are on the low end of the acidity scale and are typically well-tolerated by those with acid reflux.

Are apples acidic?

Apples come in at about pH 4, making them mildly acidic. Some people with reflux might find them irritating.

Are strawberries acidic?

Yes, strawberries have a pH of about 3.5 — definitely on the more acidic side.

Are these common fruits high in acid?

If you’re curious about which fruits are acidic, here’s a helpful list:

  • Lemon (pH: 2.3) – Highly acidic due to citric acid, often triggers reflux.
  • Lime (pH: 2.4) – Similar to lemon, best avoided if minimizing acidity.
  • Grapefruit (pH: 3.4) – Another citric acid-rich fruit that can cause symptoms.
  • Orange (pH: 4) – High in ascorbic acid (vitamin C), may aggravate reflux.
  • Tomato (pH: 4.6) – Mildly acidic but concentrated forms are more triggering.
  • Plum (pH: 3) – Different varieties vary, but most are acidic.
  • Quince (pH: 3.2) – Acidic, often used in jam or chutney.
  • Pomegranate (pH: 3) – Can cause a burning sensation in sensitive individuals.
  • Cranberry (pH: 2.5) – Highly acidic, and processed versions tend to be even more so.
  • Raspberry (pH: 3.6) – Like most berries, considered acidic.
  • Strawberry (pH: 3.4) – Tangy and acidic.
  • Kiwi (pH: 3.5) – Tart fruit that may irritate a sensitive stomach.
  • Nectarine (pH: 4) – Slight acidity, similar to oranges.
  • Pear (pH: 4) – Milder in taste but still low in pH.
  • Rhubarb (pH: 3.2) – Technically a vegetable, but acidic and tart.
  • Pineapple (pH: 3.6) – Known for its sharp taste and acidity.

For help managing acid reflux, see this article.

What fruit is low in acid?

Looking to avoid fruit that might trigger reflux? Here are some low-acid and alkaline choices:

  • Watermelon (pH: 5.4) – Mild and unlikely to cause reflux symptoms.
  • Honeydew melon (pH: 6.3) – Gentle on the stomach.
  • Mango (pH: 5.9) – Sweet and usually well-tolerated.
  • Papaya (pH: 5.6) – Contains enzymes that support digestion without excess acidity.
  • Coconut (pH: 6.6) – One of the least acidic fruits.
  • Banana (pH: 5) – Considered a safe, low-acid choice.
  • Jackfruit (pH: 5.6) – Meaty and low-acid, often used in plant-based dishes.

Disclaimer

The advice in this article is for general information only and should not be used as a substitute for medical care. Always talk to your doctor or another qualified health professional before trying any supplements, remedies, or major dietary changes. Supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet or healthy lifestyle.

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