What Are Acid Foods?

Alkaline and acidic foods, which are classified by the effect they have on urine pH levels after consumption, affect the body's pH balance levels. A diet high in acidic foods, such as meat, but low in alkalizing foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can disrupt the pH balance in the body and cause acidosis, increased acidity of the blood. Meats, dairy products, grains, nuts and berries can be acidic.

Description

The pH scale goes from 0 to 14, with 7 being totally neutral. Acidic foods are represented by values 0 to 7, and alkaline foods are represented by values 7.1 to 14. The body tries to maintain an alkalizing pH of 7.4 by depositing and withdrawing acid and alkaline minerals from bones, fluids or soft tissues.

Classification

All foods are classified into two categories, alkalizing or acidifying, based on the effect the food has on urine pH after consumption. If a food increases the acidity of urine after consumption, it is classified as an acidic food. On the other hand, if a food increases the alkalinity of urine after consumption, it is classified as an alkalizing food. Within the two categories of alkaline and acidic, foods are redivided into high, moderate or low classification, based on the total acidity or alkalinity of the food.

Acidosis

Excessive stress and/or an acidic diet can lead to acidosis, increased acidity of the bloodstream. A diet high in acidic foods such as meat can also disrupt the pH balance in the body and cause acidosis. Additionally, stress causes the endocrine system to release excess adrenaline and other hormones, which can also lead to acidosis.

Acid Foods

Kidney beans, plums, prepackaged juices, spelt flour and breads, brown rice, organ meats such as liver, cold-water fish such as cod, eggs, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, corn oil, full-fat dairy products, margarine and honey are all low-acidic foods. Skinless potatoes, pinto beans, navy beans, canned fruit, oats, pecans, cashews, coffee, wine, poultry, lamb, raw dairy products and most condiments are moderately acidic. Blueberries, cranberries, prunes, wheat flour and breads, white bread, pasta, beef, pork, shellfish, ice cream, peanuts, beer and alcohol are all highly acidic foods.

Other Considerations

Probiotics, commonly found in yogurts, kefir and sour cream, create an acidic environment in the digestive tract. Antibiotics, mineral supplements, mineral water, vitamins and antacids can also affect the pH of urine.