Internet asks: "Are Apples Acidic?"

Apples come in a variety of colors, sizes, and flavors, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes. In this article, we will explore the acidity of apples, their pH levels, and how this might impact your health.

Understanding acidity and pH levels

The acidity of a substance is determined by its pH level, which is a measure of how acidic or basic (alkaline) it is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic, 14 the most alkaline, and 7 neutral. Substances with a pH below 7 are considered acidic, while those with a pH above 7 are alkaline.

The acidity of apples

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. It's important to note that the acidity of apples can vary depending on factors like the apple variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.

It's not necessarily bad to have an acidic pH. Potassium, a mineral that is abundant in apples and which, when consumed, has an alkalizing effect on our systems.

Do apples deteriorate acidic reflux?

The majority of people often don't worry about the slight acidity of apples. In actuality, eating acidic fruits like apples can provide a number of health advantages. They are teeming with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants that can strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and lower the risk of chronic illnesses.

However, some people may experience discomfort after eating acidic foods like apples, particularly if they have a sensitive stomach, acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When this occurs, it is best to speak with a healthcare provider before making any significant dietary adjustments.

How to reduce acidity in apples?

There are a few ways to lessen apples' acidity if you like them but don't like how acidic they are:

Choose sweeter apple kinds: Different apple cultivars have different levels of acidity. Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious are examples of sweeter types that tend to have a higher pH and may be better acceptable for people who are sensitive to acidic foods.

Eat apples alongside other foods to balance their acidity and make them more bearable. Yogurt, cheese, and almond butter are examples of foods having a higher pH than apples.

Cook the apples: Cooking the apples, whether by baking or producing applesauce, can somewhat lessen their acidity. For those with sensitive stomachs, this might make them simpler to digest.

What are apples good for?

Apples help digestion by allowing the muscles at the bottom of the oesophagus to relax. Citrus fruit, fatty and fried foods, coffee, wine, and spices raise stomach acid levels, which can induce heartburn and wash out the oesophagus.

Apples include pectin, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease. Antioxidants included in apples can lower your risk of developing cancer.
The ursolic acid in apple peels may promote enhanced muscular growth and fat reduction.