Acidity is measured on the pH scale, and lower pH values mean higher acidity. But why should you care about the acidity of drinks?
The acidity of your favorite beverages can impact everything from their taste to your dental health and overall well-being.
pH Levels of Common Beverages
The more acidic the drink, the more potential it has to erode your tooth enamel. Here’s a quick rundown of where some common drinks fall on the pH scale:
Acidic beverages
- Lemons, limes, and their juices: pH 1.8 to 2.4
- Coffee: pH 2.4 to 3.3
- Pepsi and Coca-Cola: pH around 2.7
Moderately acidic beverages
- Wine: pH 2.3 to 3.8
- Beer: pH 4.0 to 5.0 (although some studies show beer is less harmful to your teeth than soda)
- Black tea: pH 4.2
Less acidic beverages
- Milk: pH 6.4 to 6.8
- Water: pH 7.3
A pH close to 7 is considered neutral, meaning it’s less likely to cause enamel erosion.
What makes a drink acidic?
Acidity in drinks can come from a few different places:
- Natural Acidity: Some drinks, like fruit juices, are naturally acidic. For example, oranges and orange juice typically have a pH between 2.8 and 4.0.
- Added Ingredients: Manufacturers sometimes add acids like citric acid or phosphoric acid to increase acidity. Sodas, for instance, often contain phosphoric acid for flavor.
- Processing Methods: Fermentation can also increase acidity. Fermented vegetables generally have a pH between 3.9 and 5.1.
Putting It All Together
Knowing about the acidity of drinks can help you make smart choices about what you consume. Drinks high in acid can harm your teeth and affect your overall health.
To protect yourself, drink acidic beverages in moderation and balance them out with neutral or alkaline options.