Fresh apples contain minerals and nutrients that may help some people with acid reflux. Sour varieties of apples, like Granny Smith, are usually more acidic than sweeter ones.
Some people report that eating an apple after a meal or at bedtime can help relieve symptoms of acid reflux by creating a more alkaline environment in the stomach. Sweet apples are thought to work better than sour varieties.
While there hasn’t been any scientific evidence to confirm this, apples contain certain nutrients known to have an acid-reducing effect.
Although people report success in managing acid reflux with apples, no specific scientific studies support these claims.
However, apples contain certain nutrients that may help neutralize symptoms of acid reflux. These include calcium and magnesium.
These compounds can have an alkalizing effect, which means they may help make their environment more alkaline and less acidic. Both calcium and magnesium are common ingredients in over-the-counter (OTC) antacids.
Apples contain fiber and beneficial antioxidants, which may benefit your digestive health and overall health.
If you have acid reflux, home remedies and treatments may help relieve your symptoms.
While apples are generally acidic compared to some other foods, they’re much less acidic than stomach acid.
Acidity is measured in pH. A lower pH means something is more acidic.
The gastric juices in your stomach typically have a pH of
Apples’ pH typically ranges from 3.3 to 4.0. The acidity of a specific variety of apples tends to correspond with its sourness, with sweeter apples having a higher pH than sour ones. Here are some common apple varieties
| Apple variety | pH |
|---|---|
| Red Delicious | 3.9 |
| Fuji | 3.69 |
| Golden Delicious | 3.4–3.6 |
| McIntosh | 3.34 |
| Jonathan | 3.3 |
| Jonagold | 3.24 |
| Granny Smith | 3.14 |
Most people can eat apples without experiencing any side effects, so there’s no harm in adding them to your daily diet. A typical serving size is one medium apple or about one cup of chopped apples.
Consider eating fresh apples over processed forms, such as juice, applesauce, or other apple products. Fresh apples generally have more health benefits, including:
- more fiber
- more antioxidants
- have less of an effect on your blood sugar levels
Although apples are generally safe to eat, they may trigger symptoms in some people with acid reflux.
Conventional apple skins may contain pesticide residue. Eating apple skins with minimal residue shouldn’t cause any adverse side effects. But if you’re trying to reduce your exposure to pesticides, consider eating organic apples.
Many cases of acid reflux can be treated with specific lifestyle changes. This includes:
- avoiding foods that trigger heartburn
- wearing looser clothing
- losing weight, if you have overweight or obesity
- elevating the head of your bed
- eating smaller meals
- not lying down after you eat
You can also treat acid reflux with OTC and prescription medications.
What fruits are good for acid reflux?
Non-citrus fruits, such as pears, melons, mangoes, and strawberries, generally do not cause acid reflux symptoms.
Is apple cider vinegar good for acid reflux?
Apple cider vinegar is more acidic than apples and may worsen acid reflux symptoms.
What foods neutralize stomach acid?
Foods high in alkalizing compounds, like magnesium or calcium, may help neutralize stomach acid. Home remedies for acid indigestion, such as ginger, may also support the digestive process and reduce inflammation.
Some people believe apples may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Though specific research on apples and acid reflux is still needed, apples contain some nutrients that may help neutralize acid.
If you have frequent acid reflux, it’s best to talk with a doctor. They can diagnose the condition and recommend effective treatment. Some other health conditions, such as stomach ulcers, may have symptoms similar to acid reflux and require specific treatment.
