Acidic foods

Definition

Acidic foods are foods that have a low pH level, typically less than 7, and can contribute to the overall acidity in the digestive system. They include items like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and certain fermented foods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stomach naturally produces hydrochloric acid to aid in digestion, which means it can handle acidic foods without harm.
2. Excessive consumption of acidic foods can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or exacerbate conditions like acid reflux.
3. Acidic foods can stimulate the production of saliva and digestive enzymes, which aid in the breakdown of food.
4. Common examples of acidic foods include lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes, vinegar-based products, and pickled vegetables.
5. Some acidic foods contain beneficial nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants that contribute to overall health despite their acidity.

Review Questions

• Why might excessive consumption of acidic foods exacerbate conditions like acid reflux?
• Name three common examples of acidic foods.
• How do acidic foods impact the production of digestive enzymes?

Related terms

Hydrochloric Acid:

A strong acid produced by the stomach that helps break down food and kill harmful bacteria.

pH Level: A measure of how acidic or basic a substance is on a scale from 0 to 14; lower values indicate higher acidity.

Acid Reflux: A condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus causing discomfort or heartburn.