Apples have a pH level of around 3.5 (moderately acidic) and are slightly less acidic than lemons and other citrus fruits; however, they are more acidic than bananas and grapes. Most don't consider apples an acidic food, but there are two different types of acids in them: malic acid and ascorbic acid (vitamin C).
Apples for stomach acid are believed to be safe because they contain alkaline minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are claimed to relieve stomach acid reflux symptoms. Because it does not contain as much acid as citrus fruits and tomatoes, you can eat pears for stomach acid.
Apples, like most fruits, contain natural acids such as malic acid, citric acid, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). These acids contribute to the tartness and flavor of the fruit. The pH of apples generally falls between 3.3 and 4.0, making them mildly acidic.
With a pH of around 4, apples are mildly acidic and may trigger acid reflux in some people.
Coconuts: one of the least acidic fruits
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.
Granny Smith apple has firm and crumbly flesh (Ting, 2012). It belongs to the acidic (7.7 g/L total acidity) and low-sugar category of apples, with green (intensity of the “grassy green – cut grass” note) and lemon (intensity of the “lemon” note) aroma descriptors.
You should eat half an apple after each meal to prevent heartburn from occurring at these times. Also, you should have a whole apple as a snack in the middle of the afternoon.
Avocado: Despite being high in fat, avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can settle your stomach and prevent acid reflux symptoms.
CITRUS Fruits and Juices
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.
Most varieties of apples, pears, blueberries, cherries, raspberries, rhubarb and apricots are all more acidic than tomatoes.
Sweeter apple varieties exist, such as Sweet McIntosh, Sweet Delicious, Sweet Caroline and others. These apples contain very little acid and always offer the flat taste. Most consumers do not like such flat taste due to low acid.
Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating an irritated esophageal lining. And not only are bananas alkaline, they're also rich in pectin — a soluble fiber that helps keeps food flowing nicely through the digestive tract.
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. However, there is no danger in enjoying blueberries in moderation.
Broccoli
It's high on the pH scale, meaning that it's alkaline and not acidic.
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.
Foods to Eat on an Acid Reflux Diet
Noncitrus fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, and strawberries are safe bets.
Is yogurt a good choice? 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.
Kiwifruit have known positive effects on digestion. During clinical intervention trials using kiwifruit to improve constipation, upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and pain, indigestion, and reflux were also alleviated.
Melons – Watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew are all low-acid fruits that are among the best foods for acid reflux.
Kiwis typically have a pH range of 3.1 to 3.96, which is considered acidic. However, the pH level can vary depending on several factors, including the level of ripeness, growing conditions, and storage conditions. Kiwis have a higher pH level than other fruits such as lemons (pH 2) and oranges (pH 3.6 to 4.34).
Water. Most notably, mineral water with an alkaline pH – this may reduce the acidity of the stomach and help to denature the enzyme pepsin. It's this digestive enzyme that is thought to be responsible for much of the damage associated with reflux.