Which fruit doesn't cause acidity? Your guide to low-acid fruits

December 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2017 study, people with higher fruit consumption reported a 25% lower risk of GERD, but not all fruits are created equal. Discovering which fruit doesn't cause acidity is essential for anyone seeking to enjoy the nutritional benefits of fruit without triggering uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

Quick Summary

Low-acid or alkaline fruits, such as bananas, melons, and papayas, are generally safe for those with acid reflux, helping to soothe the stomach and minimize heartburn symptoms.

Key Points

Bananas are a top choice: Their alkaline nature and fiber content soothe the stomach lining.
Melons are highly recommended: Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew have high water content and low acidity.
Opt for ripe fruit: Unripe fruit tends to be more acidic, so ripeness is key for digestive comfort.
Sweet red apples are gentler than green: More acidic green apples can worsen symptoms, while sweeter, ripe varieties are better tolerated.
Avocados are a safe option: These unique, low-acid fruits are rich in healthy fats and gentle on the stomach.
Portion control is important: Even low-acid fruits should be consumed in moderation to prevent potential reflux.

Understanding Acidity and pH Levels

Fruits are classified as acidic or non-acidic based on their natural pH levels. The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral, anything below 7 is acidic, and anything above 7 is alkaline. Acidic fruits typically have a pH below 4.5, which can irritate sensitive digestive systems, while non-acidic fruits have a pH above 4.5 and are generally gentler on the stomach.

The Importance of Ripeness

It is important to note that the ripeness of a fruit can significantly affect its acidity. Unripe fruits contain higher levels of acids and should be avoided if you are sensitive to acidity. For example, a ripe banana is much gentler on the stomach than an unripe, greenish one. Choosing fruit that is soft and fully ripe is a key strategy for managing digestive comfort.

The Best Low-Acid and Alkaline Fruits

For individuals with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs, incorporating low-acid and alkaline-forming fruits into their diet can provide relief. These fruits have a higher pH, which helps to neutralize stomach acid rather than increase it.

Bananas

Alkaline and Soothing: Ripe bananas are well-known for their low-acid content, with a pH typically between 4.5 and 5.2. The fruit's soft texture and high fiber help coat the esophagus and calm an irritated stomach lining.
Rich in Fiber: Bananas contain soluble fiber, which can aid digestion and contribute to a healthier gut microbiome.

Melons

Hydrating and Gentle: Melons, including watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, are naturally low in acid and have a high water content. Watermelon, for example, has a pH of 5.18 to 5.6 and can help dilute stomach acid.
Packed with Nutrients: They are also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, making them a nutritious and safe option.

Papayas

Digestive Enzymes: This tropical fruit contains an enzyme called papain, which is known to aid digestion.
High pH: Papayas are relatively low in acid, with a pH ranging from 5.2 to 6.0.

Pears and Peaches

Mildly Acidic: While not as alkaline as bananas or melons, pears and peaches are significantly less acidic than citrus fruits. Pears, in particular, are naturally sweet and gentle on the stomach.

Avocados

Unique Fruit: Botanically a fruit, avocados are low in acid, with a pH of 6.27 to 6.58. They are also high in healthy monounsaturated fats that help you feel satisfied without triggering reflux.

Comparison: Fruits to Enjoy vs. Fruits to Limit

To better illustrate the differences, here is a comparison of typical pH levels for common fruits. Keep in mind that exact pH can vary based on ripeness and variety.


Fruit Category	Examples	Typical pH Range	Acidity Level	Recommendation for Acidity Sufferers
Low-Acid/Alkaline	Bananas, Melons, Papayas	4.5 and up	Low/Alkaline	Generally safe and soothing
Moderate-Acid	Pears, Sweet Apples, Peaches	3.5 to 4.5	Moderate	Can be tolerated by some, especially sweet varieties
High-Acid	Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits	2.0 to 4.2	High	Often triggers symptoms and should be limited
High-Acid Berries	Strawberries, Blueberries	3.0 to 3.9	Moderate to High	Can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals

Practical Tips for Managing Fruit and Acidity

Following these simple tips can help you incorporate fruit into your diet without causing discomfort:

Focus on Ripeness: As mentioned, always choose ripe fruit over unripe options to minimize acidity.
Eat in Moderation: Even a low-acid fruit can trigger symptoms if consumed in large quantities. Practice portion control and listen to your body.
Combine with Other Foods: Avoid eating fruit on an empty stomach. Pairing low-acid fruits with other non-acidic foods like oatmeal or yogurt can help balance the meal and reduce the risk of reflux.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help dilute stomach acid and improve digestion.
Keep a Food Diary: Tracking how different fruits affect your symptoms can help you identify individual triggers. Everyone's digestive system is different, so what works for one person might not work for another.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Comfort

While the concept of a truly 'non-acidic' fruit is a simplification, opting for fruits with a naturally low pH and high water content can make a significant difference for those prone to digestive issues. Bananas, melons, and papayas stand out as excellent choices that offer nutritional value and a soothing effect on the stomach. By understanding which fruit doesn't cause acidity, focusing on ripeness, and practicing moderation, you can continue to enjoy the health benefits of fruit without the burn. If symptoms persist despite dietary changes, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. For more information on diet and acid reflux, you can visit the Healthline guide on the topic.

Low-acid fruits list

Bananas: Soothe the digestive system with their alkaline properties.
Melons: Hydrate the body and neutralize stomach acid with their high water content.
Papayas: Aid digestion with the enzyme papain and have a moderate pH.
Avocados: Provide healthy fats and are low in acid, making them gentle on the stomach.
Sweet Apples: Contain minerals like calcium and magnesium that may neutralize acid.
Pears: Offer a naturally sweet and low-acid option for sensitive stomachs.
Ripe is Key: Choosing fully ripe fruit reduces its natural acidity level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Non-citrus fruits like bananas, melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew), papayas, and ripe, sweet apples are generally considered safe for those with acid reflux due to their low acidity.

Bananas are naturally alkaline, which can help to neutralize stomach acid. Their high fiber content and soft texture can also coat the esophagus and aid digestion, providing relief from heartburn.

Yes, melons like watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are all recommended for a low-acid diet. Their high water content helps dilute stomach acid and their alkaline nature soothes the digestive system.

Sweeter, red varieties of apples like Red Delicious or Gala are less acidic and often better tolerated. More tart, green apples, such as Granny Smith, tend to be more acidic and may trigger symptoms.

Berries like strawberries and blueberries are moderately acidic and can cause discomfort for some sensitive individuals. However, ripe strawberries are sometimes considered a low-acid option.

Yes, pineapple is known to be a naturally acidic fruit due to its high citric acid content. It may cause discomfort for those with acid reflux and should be avoided by sensitive individuals.

To reduce the potential for acidity, choose fully ripe fruit, eat it in moderation, and combine it with other non-acidic foods like oats or yogurt. Staying hydrated also helps dilute stomach acid.