If you have an acid problem that has you reaching for the antacids every day, perhaps there is a better way. Whether you have acid reflux, or a temporary case of heartburn, reaching for an apple may be the last thing on your mind. However, there are stories all over the internet about using apples as an antacid.
Apples: Alkaline or Acid?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is commonly known as acid reflux. It happens when stomach acid flows back to the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. It’s common, and most people believe that the symptoms are manageable if not a little uncomfortable.
There are personal testimonials on the effectiveness of apples if you have acid reflux. But, there is no research or studies that support this claim. It is anecdotal at best. Furthermore, apples are acidic. It does not neutralize the acid in your stomach. Neither does it increase acid in your stomach.
Instead, it may produce an effect you are not expecting. Gastric acid and enzymes already present in the stomach use the apple to get to work. The acids are not just sitting around, as in with an empty stomach, waiting to expel. The apple provides substance to the stomach. Also, the act of chewing the apple produces more saliva. When swallowed, it reduces the acid in the stomach.
Other foods will probably have the same results. Until there is more testing on apples as an antacid, it remains hearsay.
Final Thoughts
Though there is no scientific data that supports the claim that you can use apples as an antacid, it certainly wouldn’t hurt you. Apples are very nutritious by themselves. If they help you with your heartburn symptoms, all the better.
