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
- The stomach naturally produces hydrochloric acid to aid in digestion, which means it can handle acidic foods without harm.
- Excessive consumption of acidic foods can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or exacerbate conditions like acid reflux.
- Acidic foods can stimulate the production of saliva and digestive enzymes, which aid in the breakdown of food.
- Common examples of acidic foods include lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes, vinegar-based products, and pickled vegetables.
- 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?
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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.
