The worst offenders are citrus fruits. These have low pH levels, which means they are acidic. The most acidic fruits are lemons, limes, plums, grapes, grapefruits and blueberries. Pineapples, oranges, peaches and tomatoes are also high in acid.
The pH of bananas generally falls between 4.5 and 5.2, making them low in acid. However, the ripeness of the banana can also affect its acidity. As bananas ripen, their pH level increases, making them less acidic and sweeter. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which has an alkalizing effect on the body.
While whole eggs are relatively pH neutral, egg white is one of the few food products that is naturally alkaline, with an initial pH value that can be as low as 7.6 at time of lay, but with increasing alkalinity as the egg ages, and can reach pH of 9.2.
Whole grains — High fiber, whole-grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grain breads help stop symptoms of acid reflux. They are a good source of fiber and may help absorb stomach acid. Lean protein — Low-fat, lean sources of protein also reduce symptoms. Good choices are chicken, seafood, tofu, and egg whites.
Generally, the pH level of plain yogurt is between 4.4 and 4.8, making it slightly acidic. Greek yogurt, for example, has a lower pH and is more acidic compared to regular yogurt. The acidity of yogurt may also be affected by the addition of fruits or sweeteners.
There are different types of blueberries, and the pH level also varies. However, the scale usually falls between 3.11 and 3.35. As a result, these fruits are classified as acidic.
Yogurt, though acidic in nature, is a low acid-forming food, because it does not affect the acid-alkaline balance of the body.
The most acidic fruits are lemons, limes, plums, grapes, grapefruits and blueberries. Pineapples, oranges, peaches and tomatoes are also high in acid.
Stay Hydrated – One of the easiest ways to neutralize acid in your body is by consuming alkaline water. Alkaline water offers the premium hydration your body needs. By staying hydrated, your body will naturally eliminate the excess acid through the digestive tract.
Lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruit are all foods that can make your GERD symptoms worse because of their citric acid content. Pineapple is another fruit high in citric acid you might want to avoid in order to manage your symptoms.
While avocados are a very good-for-you food, thanks to its healthy fats6, if your diet is already packed with fat, eating high-fat avocados could bring about acid reflux (healthy nut butters may be a culprit here, too). Since guac is always extra, save a little money the next time you're out and avoid it!
Skinless chicken makes a great low-acid diet staple. High in protein, a 4-ounce portion provides two-thirds of the recommended daily amount. While chicken is perfectly fine, deep-frying it in greasy oil will only trigger heartburn. Prepare it mindfully, with as few reflux-triggering spices as possible.
Yogurt that is not too sour is also excellent for acid reflux, because of the probiotics that help normalize bowel function. Yogurt also provides protein, and soothes stomach discomfort, often providing a cooling sensation. It is easy to choose foods by looking them up to see how acidic they are.
Foods to Eat on an Acid Reflux Diet
Noncitrus fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, and strawberries are safe bets. Lean chicken and meat: Order or cook it grilled instead of fried. Plain breads and cereals: Skip overly processed carbs with high-fat ingredients like muffins and croissants.
The pH level of cheese, which measures its acidity or alkalinity, depends on the type of cheese and the aging process. Generally, cheese falls within the acidic range on the pH scale. Some cheeses like cottage cheese, feta, and mozzarella tend to have a higher acidity leve, with a pH ranging from 4.9 to 5.5.
In accordance with their pH level, strawberries are acidic. The pH range for strawberries is usually 3 to 3.5. A pH value between 0 and 6.99 is regarded as acidic. The number is more acidic the closer it approaches to 0.