Quinoa is becoming increasingly popular globally as more people learn about this nutritious, gluten-free health food. It’s highly versatile in the kitchen, appearing in salads, soups, and hot dishes as a substitute for rice or lentils.
However, if you suffer from acid reflux or GERD, you're likely more concerned if it will trigger your symptoms than how you can add it to your diet.
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Is Quinoa Acidic?
Like most grains, quinoa is slightly acidic, so it may trigger symptoms like heartburn, especially if you're particularly sensitive to acidity.
However, properly cooked, quinoa is delicious, highly nutritious, and an excellent addition to a healthy, balanced diet if you can tolerate its acidity.
What Is the pH of Quinoa?
Quinoa has a pH of around 6.20-6.80 and is acid-forming, which makes it more likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms.
Everyone has different symptom triggers, so you may be able to tolerate as much quinoa as you want to eat, but add it to your diet slowly.
Is Quinoa Healthy?
Quinoa is incredibly nutritious and contains a lot of protein, which is excellent for those on a plant-based diet.
Protein keeps you feeling full longer after eating, making weight gain less likely.
Quinoa is an excellent source of manganese, which may reduce inflammation, alleviating acid reflux. Chronic inflammation is linked with cancer, diabetes, asthma, and several autoimmune conditions.
It's also high in magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function. Magnesium is also responsible for over 300 enzyme reactions.
Quinoa contains more fiber than other whole grains, mostly insoluble, but also soluble.
Several studies show that soluble fiber lowers blood sugar levels, reduces cholesterol, and increases feelings of fullness.
Quinoa contains antioxidants, which flush harmful chemicals out of your body and prevent oxidative damage to your cells and tissues.
They also have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-depressant effects.
Is Quinoa Bad for Acid Reflux?
Quinoa is the least acidic of grains on the market, so it's a great dietary addition for most acid reflux sufferers. However, note that individuals react to food differently, and quinoa may cause symptoms to some.
Nevertheless, quinoa is rich in nutrients that help keep your digestive system healthy, reducing how frequent and severe your symptoms are.
Can You Reduce the Acidity of Quinoa?
Boiling or stir-frying quinoa with alkalizing vegetables, such as sauerkraut, cabbage, beets, mushrooms, or broccoli, can help reduce its 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