What are some acidic foods and dishes?

Feb 22, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

Acidic foods include vegetables, with common examples such as beef, which should be consumed after acid removal. Lamb has a pH value of 5.6–6.0, and pork ranges from 6.1–6.4, both classified as acidic foods. Lemons are acidic; grapes have a pH of around 4.5, and hawthorn has a relatively low pH. Spinach has a pH of 5.8–6.3, onions range from 6.0–6.5, and lotus root falls between 6.0–7.0.

Acidic foods generally include various dishes, with commonly seen examples being meats such as beef, lamb, and shrimp; fruits like lemons, grapes, and hawthorns; and vegetables such as spinach, onions, and lotus roots.

I. Meats

1. Beef

Beef contains relatively high levels of acidic substances. It usually needs to undergo an appropriate acid-removal process after slaughter before it can be consumed.

2. Lamb

Depending on the breed, lamb typically has a pH value between 5.6 and 6.0, classifying it as a weakly acidic food. Moderate consumption generally does not affect the body's acid-base balance.

3. Pork

The pH value of pork generally ranges from 6.1 to 6.4, which is below 7.0, making it a slightly acidic food.

In addition, foods such as crab should be avoided in excessive amounts.

II. Fruits

1. Lemon

Lemons are a common acidic food and can help regulate the body's acid-base balance.

2. Grape

Grapes usually have a pH value around 4.5, making them more suitable for individuals with alkaline body constitutions.

3. Hawthorn

Hawthorn also has a relatively low pH value and a distinctly sour taste, which can help stimulate appetite.

Additionally, fruits such as pomegranate are not recommended for long-term, excessive consumption.

III. Vegetables

1. Spinach

Spinach has a pH value between 5.8 and 6.3, making it a slightly acidic food. It can help prevent constipation and improve physical health.

2. Onion

Onions have a pH value ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. For individuals with a more alkaline constitution, moderate onion consumption may help promote acid-base balance.

3. Lotus Root

Lotus root grows best in an environment with a pH value of 6.0–7.0, hence its texture tends to be slightly acidic.

Other vegetables such as carrots should also be consumed in moderation.

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What causes teeth to feel sore and weak when eating sour foods?

Tooth sensitivity or softening when eating sour foods may result from long-term consumption of coarse or hard foods, leading to excessive tooth wear. This can be treated with dental restoration or root canal therapy. If caused by dentin hypersensitivity, desensitization treatment for dentin or repair of damaged enamel may be performed. If the condition is due to long-term improper brushing or fatigue of dental tissues causing wedge-shaped defects, filling procedures or extraction of the affected tooth may be necessary.