Understanding Food Acids: Benefits and Sources

Various foods contain acids, but that doesn't necessarily mean that those foods are bad for you. In fact, the acids found in foods can be beneficial. In some cases, the acids are extracted and used for other applications.

Fruit

• Lemons and limes are high in citric acid, which is extracted and used in other foods to preserve freshness.

Ascorbic

• Ascorbic acid is another name for vitamin C. It can be found in oranges, red peppers, tomatoes and guava, among other foods.

Fats

• Essential fatty acids are the fats that the body cannot produce, but are important for proper functioning. Some foods with essential fatty acids are salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds and olive oil.

Folic Acid

• Folic acid is found in enriched bread and cereal products. It is also found naturally in spinach, broccoli, asparagus and lentils.

Aminos

• Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They can be found in milk, eggs, beef, chicken and quinoa.

Identification

• Some foods with acid in them can be harmful to the body. Some examples would be red meats, refined carbohydrates, soft drinks, alcohol and coffee.