While fruit is good for you, some are a little more acidic than others, which can turn off those with sensitive stomachs. If you've ever suffered a little indigestion after consuming a grapefruit, you know the feeling. But that doesn't mean you should remove all fruits from your diet; some have a lower acid content than others, so you can enjoy them in moderation. You don't want to miss out on all the health benefits that fruit has to offer. So, the next time you want to whip up a smoothie or just snack on something fresh and crunchy, refer to this cheat sheet and give one of these a try.
What Is Acidity?
The pH value system is a guide to tell you if a food is neutral, a base or an acid. The scale begins with 0, for high levels of acidity; 7, for neutral; and 14, for alkaline or neutral. For instance, lemons and limes have a pH of roughly 2, which means that they are pretty acidic. Alternately, ripened mangoes score a 6, making them almost neutral, since water is a 7.
Good Lower Acid Fruits to Choose
Peaches and nectarines are also good options as they score around a 4 on the pH scale. Slice them and pop them in a bowl of Greek yogurt on those days when you are craving something sweet.
Apples can truly help keep the doctor away; they contain fiber that helps you feel fuller longer, but they come in at 4 on the pH scale. If you find them a bit harsh to digest, peel the skin before eating.
Better Low Acid Fruits to Choose
Bananas were the top-selling fruit in the United States last year, and why not?
They are jam-packed with potassium that can blunt the effects of high blood pressure and stave off cramps after a grueling workout. A banana scores a little over 5 on the pH scale and is often recommended to help soothe an upset stomach.
Watermelons score a 5.6 and are much loved and for good reason. They are hydrating and refreshing, plus they pair well with other fruits and can add balance to a salad.
The taste of jackfruit, which is often used as a meat substitute, can take some getting used to, but its pH value usually runs between a 4.8 and 6.8. So be a little experimental and give it a try.
Other Low Acid Fruits
Mangoes are still making a name for themselves in the United States and shouldn't be overlooked. They come in several varieties and are naturally sweet. Plus, at a 6, they are pretty low in acid. Enjoy them as you would a peach or nectarine.
Eating cantaloupes is a great way to help you stay hydrated, because not only are they a 6.58 on the pH scale, but they contain 91 percent water.
Avocados may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of fruit, but yes, like tomatoes, that are often categorized as vegetables. Known for their healthy fat content, their score is 6.58 on the pH scale. So, enjoy them for breakfast mashed on whole wheat toast.
Coconuts are quite the trending food. They're known as the king of hydration and are said to be able to replenish the body with liquid refreshment after exercise. Plus, at 7, they are as neutral as water.
The Takeaway
Even though it may seem nearly impossible to find fruits that are completely acid free, there are those that are milder in acid than others. Try one of these, and you may discover a new fruit to love.
References
- The Avocado: Fruit or Vegetable?
- Approximate pH of Foods and Food Products
- 8 Science-Based Health Benefits of Coconut Water
- Top 20 Fruits and Vegetables Sold in the U.S.
- High potassium intake blunts the effect of elevated sodium intake on blood pressure levels.
- Jackfruit: there's a new meat substitute in town, but it requires some help
Resources
- THE AVOCADO: FRUIT OR VEGETABLE?
- Approximate pH of Foods and Food Products
- 8 Science-Based Health Benefits of Coconut Water
- Top 20 Fruits and Vegetables Sold in the U.S.
- High potassium intake blunts the effect of elevated sodium intake on blood pressure levels.
- Jackfruit: there's a new meat substitute in town, but it requires some help
Writer Bio
Cheryl S. Grant has reported & written for Crain’s, Glamour, Reader's Digest, Cosmo, Brides, Latina, Yoga Journal, MSN, USA Today, Family Circle, Taste of Home, Spa Weekly, You Beauty, Spice Island, and Health Daily. She investigates trends and targets profiles subjects using a combination of deep background research (database, periodicals, preliminary interviews, social media), write and edit compelling stories in a variety of beats including beauty, health, travel, nutrition, diet, law, medicine, advocacy, and entertainment.