Lemon Juice And Coffee Are Acidic Or Basic
When it comes to the pH scale, everything we consume falls somewhere between acidic and basic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, and anything above 7 is basic or alkaline. But where do lemon juice and coffee fall on the pH scale? Let's find out.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a popular ingredient in both cooking and drinking. It is commonly used in salads, marinades, and as a flavor enhancer in drinks. Lemon juice is known for its sour taste, and that sourness comes from citric acid, a weak organic acid. Citric acid has a pH of around 2.2, which makes lemon juice acidic. However, once consumed, lemon juice has an alkalizing effect on the body. This is because lemon juice is rich in alkaline minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which help to neutralize acid in the body.
Coffee
Coffee is a popular beverage consumed by millions of people worldwide. It is made by brewing roasted coffee beans, which contain various compounds, including acids. The most common acids found in coffee are chlorogenic acid and quinic acid. These acids give coffee its characteristic tartness and bitterness. However, despite its acidic taste, coffee is actually slightly acidic, with a pH of around 5.0. This means that coffee is less acidic than lemon juice, but more acidic than water.
Acidic vs. Basic
Although both lemon juice and coffee are acidic, they have different effects on the body. Lemon juice has an alkalizing effect, while coffee has an acidifying effect. This is because coffee contains compounds that increase the production of stomach acid, which can cause heartburn and acid reflux. On the other hand, lemon juice contains alkaline minerals that help to neutralize acid in the body, making it a good choice for those with acid reflux.
The Bottom Line
So, are lemon juice and coffee acidic or basic? Lemon juice is acidic, with a pH of around 2.2, while coffee is slightly acidic, with a pH of around 5.0. However, both have different effects on the body. Lemon juice has an alkalizing effect, while coffee has an acidifying effect. It is important to note that the pH of a food or drink does not necessarily reflect its effect on the body. Therefore, it is always best to listen to your body and consume foods and drinks that make you feel good.
