The pH of foods can be discussed on two main levels: a) pH of foods before eaten, b) the effect foods tend to have on the body (usually determined by sampling urine or burning the food and testing the pH of the ash).

pH of foods before eaten

Nearly all fruits and vegetables are acidic (have a pH less than 7). For example, an apple has a pH of around 3.3 to 4.0, depending on variety and growing conditions. Leafy green vegetables have a pH of 5.5 to 6.8. Acidity helps to protect the food from bacteria, most of which require a neutral pH, especially the pathogenic ones. However, acidity does not stop fungi like yeast, which is why fruit will ferment naturally.

Most meat, dairy, and soy products have a neutral pH. Tofu has a pH of about 7.2. Milk has a pH on the acidic side of neutral, 6.4 to 6.8. Most meats and fish have pH from 6.3 to 7.4.

Very few foods are alkaline. One of the very few is conch, which has a pH from 7.5 to 8.4.

pH of foods based on effect

Alkaline foods using this alternative measure, are foods such as carrots, green leafy vegetables, fruits like apple, citrus and tomatoes. These alkaline foods help reduce acidity in human body, and are sometimes referred to as alkaline-forming foods.

Alternatively, grains and meats have an acidic effect in the body, and are sometimes referred to as acid-forming foods.

Some foods tend to have a neutral effect, including dairy products, and oils.

Role of digestion

Whether a particular food results in alkalizing or acidizing the body depends also on the completeness of digestion, thus can be different between individuals and conditions.

Calcium depletion and pH

The body must maintain good pH balance in many fluids, including blood and interstitial fluid. In order to do this it will withdraw calcium from bones or other storage if necessary. For this reason eating vegetables such as broccoli, that are high in calcium and also highly alkaline, can help prevent depletion of body stores of calcium. For more information see "VistaMagOnline": [1122], "Is Your Calcium Source Right For You?", by Norm Danniels.

Conclusion

Some authorities are concerned that people do not eat enough alkaline forming foods, claiming that eating alkaline forming foods preserves the reserve of alkaline minerals needed to neutralize the effect of certain bodily functions that result in formation of acid, such as anaerobic exercise. While there is little general agreement on this subject, few authorities disagree with the idea of eating a generous amount of greens and other vegetables, touting a wide range of resulting health benefits.

External links

Table of food pH measurements