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Home » Acidic Foods

Are Donuts Acidic?

aaron l gravelyMedically Reviewed by Aaron Gravely, MD · Written by Rizza Joyce Mira, MD · Updated on July 1, 2023

People who suffer from acid reflux or GERD know that many foods can trigger symptoms, making them feel terrible. Sufferers of these conditions need to know the acidity of foods, so they can either cut them from their diet entirely or limit their intake; this can be especially difficult to do when a favorite snack is acidic.

are donuts acidic

Desserts tend to be relatively acidic, and who doesn't love the occasional sweet treat?

Let's take a look at one of the most popular: donuts. How well do these snacks fit into a low-acid diet?

Table of Contents
  • Are Donuts Acidic or Alkaline?
  • What Is the pH of Donuts?
  • Are Donuts Bad for You?
  • Are Donuts Bad for Acid Reflux?
  • Can You Eat Donuts if You Suffer from Acid Reflux?

Are Donuts Acidic or Alkaline?

Unfortunately, donuts are quite acidic and high in sugar, so they should be avoided or only eaten occasionally by those suffering from acid reflux and GERD. They're also calorie-dense and contain barely any nutrients, so most people should avoid them.

What Is the pH of Donuts?

Donuts have a pH of between 4.0 and 6.0, depending on the ingredients and cooking time. They're usually made from the same ingredients, including flour, eggs, milk, butter, and yeast, and have no alkalizing properties. This makes donuts acidic and acid-forming, so they don't fit well into a low-acid diet.

Donuts are high in fat and sugar, slowing digestion and making your stomach produce more acid.

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Are Donuts Bad for You?

blue and purple vegan donuts
some blue and purple vegan donuts surrounded by flowers

Donuts aren't healthy; one medium donut contains over 255 calories, most of which come from sugar and fat.

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Donuts contain barely any vitamins and minerals; they're mostly empty calories.

  • Is Greek Yogurt Acidic?

They're made with milk, flour, and butter, which can worsen stomach problems in people with a gluten allergy or lactose intolerance.

Donuts are highly processed, and eating too many can lead to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

  • 15 Most Healthy Processed Foods

Are Donuts Bad for Acid Reflux?

Donuts are high in fat and sugar, both of which digest slowly, making your stomach produce more acid. Along with their slight acidity and lack of nutrients, this makes them a poor choice if you suffer from acid reflux.

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Can You Eat Donuts if You Suffer from Acid Reflux?

If you enjoy donuts but they give you heartburn, try the plain varieties, as they are lower in fat and sugar and less likely to irritate your stomach. But only indulge occasionally, and avoid those with sprinkles, frosting, or chocolate, as these add calories and acidity.

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

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aaron l gravely

Aaron L. Gravely, MD earned his MD from Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons and BA in Neurobiology from Harvard College.

Aaron has over 5 years of experience revising medical content and scientific language for usage, flow, and clarity in accordance with the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) and the American Medical Association (AMA).

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