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| - Last Updated on September 9, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post suggests that turmeric is acidic and should be avoided entirely. We fact checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A facebook post by the name DoctorTruth.Teachings warns people not to eat specific foods including turmeric as it can be acidic and harm the body.
Fact Check
Is turmeric acidic in nature?
No. Turmeric is often praised for its vibrant colour and health benefits, primarily due to its active compound, curcumin. However, the claim that turmeric is highly acidic is not entirely accurate. The pH level of turmeric powder is generally around 5.82 to 6.32, which is considered near neutral. In some cases, turmeric may have a slightly acidic nature, but it does not qualify as a strongly acidic food.
Dietitian Kamna Chauhan says, “Turmeric itself is not highly acidic, it is considered to be neutral or slightly alkaline in term of its effect on body’s pH balance. Its main active component Curcumin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and potential anticancer properties, but it does not significantly alter the body’s overall acid-base balance. Body’s pH balance is tightly regulated by various system including kidneys and lungs and dietary foods have relatively minor role in this regulation. Turmeric being a spice used in relatively small amounts, does not have substantial effect on stomach acidity or the body’s overall pH.”
Dr. Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, clarifies further, “Turmeric is not acidic. When added to milk, turmeric doesn’t cause the milk mixture to curdle, indicating that it is alkaline.”
However, It’s worth nothing that if you have a specific condition like acid reflux or a sensitivity to spice condition. Consuming large amount of turmeric might cause irritation. In general, moderate use of turmeric as part of balanced diet is unlikely to affect your body’s acid-base balance Significantly.”
Does the acidic nature of food harm the body?
Yes to a certain extent. The acidic nature of food can have various effects on the body, but its impact depends on several factors including the type of food, the amount consumed, and the individual’s overall health.
- Digestive System: Some acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, can sometimes irritate the lining of the oesophagus and stomach, especially in people with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcers. However, for most people, moderate consumption of acidic foods is not harmful and can be part of a balanced diet.
- Dental Health: Acidic foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel over time. This can lead to dental problems if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Drinking water or rinsing the mouth after consuming acidic foods can help minimise this effect.
- Bone Health: There has been some debate about whether a high-acid diet can affect bone health. While it’s true that the body maintains a relatively stable pH balance, some theories suggest that an excessively acidic diet might lead to the leaching of calcium from bones to neutralize the acid. However, more research is needed to fully understand this relationship, and a well-balanced diet usually helps to counteract any potential negative effects.
- Metabolic Impact: The body has robust mechanisms for maintaining acid-base balance, including the kidneys and respiratory system. For most people, consuming acidic foods doesn’t significantly alter this balance. It’s the overall dietary pattern, rather than individual foods, that has a more substantial effect on long-term health.
What are the health benefits of turmeric?
Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, largely attributed to curcumin. These properties have led to its widespread use in traditional medicine and various health applications. Studies suggest that turmeric can offer several health benefits, including gout including improved digestion and reduced inflammation.
For most people, turmeric is well-tolerated and can contribute positively to overall health. It is used in moderate amounts in cooking and supplements without causing significant issues. However, like any substance, turmeric can have different effects on different individuals.
Should turmeric be avoided?
No. The notion that turmeric should be completely avoided due to its acidity is an overstatement. For the majority of individuals, turmeric is safe to consume in reasonable quantities. It does not pose a significant risk based on its acidity alone.
However, there are exceptions. Individuals with specific health conditions, such as gallbladder issues or those on certain medications (e.g., blood thinners), should approach turmeric with caution.
Dietician Harita Adhvaryu a senior dietician and diabetes educator from Ahmedabad, explains, “The notion of avoiding turmeric purely on the basis of its acidity is baseless. There are people who have lived without consuming turmeric, and there are also those who continue to thrive with it. As Indians, we have been using and consuming turmeric almost every day, and it is completely safe.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that turmeric is too acidic to be safely consumed is misleading. Turmeric is not highly acidic and, for most people, is beneficial when included as part of a balanced diet. It is important to consider individual health conditions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Turmeric remains a valuable spice with numerous potential health benefits, and it does not need to be completely avoided based on its acidity alone.
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