Found in nearly every kitchen worldwide, eggs are a healthy, delicious protein source. However you cook them, eggs are delicious, and they can add flavor and nutrition to a wide range of hot and cold dishes.
However, many people nowadays suffer from acid reflux. They often follow a diet low in acidic foods and drinks to avoid triggering or worsening their symptoms, the most common of which is heartburn. Followers of such diets must know the acidity of common foods and how each affects their symptoms.
Certain foods can trigger heartburn in some, not just those with acid reflux. But why is this?
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Why Do Eggs Cause Heartburn?
Eggs are only slightly acidic, but their high fat and protein content can trigger heartburn in those with sensitive stomachs.
Are Eggs Acidic?
Whole eggs have a pH of 6.58, which is only slightly acidic and bordering on neutral. Most people, including those with acid reflux, should be fine adding eggs to their diet, but they may cause heartburn in some.
Egg yolk has a pH of 6.10, while egg white has a pH of 7.96.
How Do Eggs Cause Heartburn?
Eggs are rich in fat and protein, which are difficult to digest and stay in your stomach longer. This stimulates gastric acid production, making acid reflux more likely.
Many people like scrambled or fried eggs, which are higher in fat and calories, increasing the likelihood of heartburn and weight gain.
Some experts believe egg yolks are more likely to trigger heartburn, as they're higher in fat than egg whites.
Are Eggs Healthy?
Eggs are high in protein, which keeps you feeling full longer after eating and is essential for building lean muscle and reducing muscle loss.
They're also rich in antioxidants that gather in the retina, protecting your eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration.
Eggs are an excellent source of selenium, an antioxidant that flushes out harmful chemicals, preventing oxidative stress and cellular damage. An egg contains up to 20% of the recommended daily intake of selenium, which also reduces your risk of developing cancer.
Contrary to popular belief, the cholesterol in eggs has minimal effect on your cholesterol levels.
Some studies show that eggs may increase good and decrease bad cholesterol levels.
What Style of Egg Is Least Likely To Cause Heartburn?
Eggs fried or scrambled in a lot of fat are more likely to cause heartburn.
Soft-boiled, hard-boiled, and poached eggs contain less fat and are least likely to trigger your symptoms.
Egg whites are high in protein but lower in fat than the yolk, so if you find eating whole eggs gives you heartburn, try using just the white.
Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level