Are Nectarines Acidic? Let’s Find Out!

By - Haleema Sadia

Nectarines are juicy and delicious. They belong to the fruit family, Rosaceae, and are majorly related to peaches and plums. 

But, are nectarines acidic? 

Yes, they fall in the acidic pH range and are slightly sour. Some of the nectarines are more acidic as compared to others. Although they are acidic, nectarines are very healthy and nutritious. They have a high percentage of the compounds that act as antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. Being low in calories, they are good for weight loss too.

The article will reveal everything you want to know about nectarines, their pH, and their impacts on human health. 

So, let us dive deep into the interesting facts about nectarines.

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Nectarines Nutrition Facts

Nectarines contain very important vitamins and minerals that play a vital role in performing bodily functions. 

A 100 gram of nectarines contains 44 calories. 

Following is the table demonstrating the Nutritional Information of nectarines.

All these nutrients are very important for performing many body functions. They are very important for the proper metabolism of the human body!

Are Nectarines Acidic?

The fruits that have a low pH fall under the category of acidic fruits. Nectarines are one of those. However, there are different types of nectarines based on acidity. 

Nectarines are classified into three main categories. 

Also, nectarines are available in many different colors such as green, yellow, white, and red.

White nectarines are less acidic as compared to the yellow variety. They also have a sweet taste. Yellow nectarines are more acidic and have a tangier taste. 

Following are the three categories of nectarines:

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Clingstones:

In this type, the flesh of the nectarines is attached to the pit. The fiber content of this type of nectarines can stick to your teeth. 

It is mostly used for canning purposes and is less acidic.

Freestones:

As the name indicates, freestone varieties are those whose pulp can be easily separated from the flesh. This type of nectarines is slightly more acidic as compared to the clingstones.

Semi Freestones:

In this state, the flesh is completely attached to the pit. These types of nectarines are mostly preferred for freezing purposes. 

It is the most acidic type of nectarine.

Are Nectarines Healthy?

Nectarines have delicate flesh that is yellow or creamy white with pink, red, or white outer margins. 

They have a good amount of vital nutrients.

Nectarines are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, B2, and B3, Pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. These vitamins are essential for the normal body growth.

In addition to these vitamins, nectarines also contain minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, and many other types. 

Nectarines also contain fiber and hence, they help in weight loss.

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Nectarines Vs Peaches

Nectarines look very similar to peaches but there are some differences. 

While Nectarines and Peaches belong to the same species, the taste and acidity of both vary. 

Peaches have a more fuzzy skin but nectarines have smooth skin. The texture of both also differs.

Along with this, Nectarines grow in hot climates but peaches can grow in moderate climates too. 

Are Nectarines Healthy for Pregnancy?

Yes, nectarines are healthy for pregnancy as they contain all the nutritional value required for a pregnant woman. 

They also contain vitamin C which is important for iron absorption in pregnant women.

Pregnant ladies are most likely to suffer from iron-deficiency anemia. 

Although nectarines are low in iron they are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C is the main nutrient that helps pregnant women get enough iron from different foods.

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Are Nectarines Healthy for Diabetics?

Diabetics can consume nectarines as they are high in fiber and have all the nutrients essential for diabetic individuals. 

Also, nectarines have a low glycemic index and they do not raise blood sugar levels suddenly.

Nectarines are fruits that have a large number of antioxidants. These antioxidants along with the other chemicals help to lower blood sugar levels. However, it is not wise to eat nectarines in a large amount as it can interfere with your blood glucose levels.

Are Nectarines Healthy for Weight Loss?

Mostly, the foods that help in controlling diabetes are also useful for weight loss. 

As they can increase the insulin sensitivity of your body and make it use more energy in the form of glucose. This process kick starts your metabolism and speeds it up helping you in weight loss.

Also, nectarines’ acidic nature contributes to fat loss. The acid in nectarines helps metabolize the food in the stomach and hence it digests in an effective way leading to weight loss. 

Last but not the least, the fiber present in nectarines keeps your stomach stuffed and helps you curb your cravings.

Nectarines Benefits And Side Effects

Nectarines are acidic and are packed with a lot of health benefits. However, eating too much nectarine can be dangerous. 

Here are the top 10 amazing benefits of nectarines along with a few side effects of eating too many nectarines.

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Nectarines:

Apart from being low in calories, nectarines are wonderfully nutritious and hydrating. The nutrients in nectarines make them beneficial for human health. 

Following are the commonly observed health benefits of nectarines:

1. The phytochemicals and other compounds present in nectarines decrease the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. As a result, this decreases blood sugar levels.

2. Nectarines help in weight loss.

3. Nectarines detoxify the harmful chemicals of the body. They combine the toxins and take them out of your body.

4. The compounds present in nectarines prevent obesity-related disorders and decrease body mass index.

5. The antioxidants present in nectarines protect against lung cancer.

6. Lutein in nectarines helps reduce the risk of eye-related disorders and macular degeneration.

7. Vitamin C in nectarines helps in the absorption of iron and prevents your risk of iron deficiency anemia.

8. Nectarines reduce blood cholesterol levels and can prevent cardiovascular disorders.

9. The high fiber content in nectarines helps relieve constipation and digest the food properly.

10. Hydrating properties of nectarine make it good for your skin health. It gives a brightening and rejuvenating effect to your skin.

All these beneficial health effects of nectarines are due to their excellent nutrition profile. It has all the compounds essential for the growth and well-being of the human body.

Side Effects of Eating Too Many Nectarines:

No doubt, nectarines are rich in vitamins and minerals. They also contain a lot of water, but eating too many nectarines can be harmful to some individuals. 

Here are the common side effects of nectarines observed in some people:

• Eating nectarines without washing them can cause you to ingest fungus which can be very harmful and cause fungal diseases.

• Eating excess, unwashed nectarines can cause diarrhea and other stomach issues.

• If you’re allergic to citrus fruit, eating nectarines can cause anaphylactic reactions including rashes and fever.

However, these side effects only occur in a few individuals. 

These effects are not common if you consume nectarines after washing them properly. Also, eating nectarines in moderation will avoid all these side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many nectarines can I eat in a day?

Eating two small-sized nectarines is okay to achieve its health benefits. If you’re eating chopped nectarines, it is important to eat 85 grams of nectarines a day. Eating excess nectarines can aggravate diabetes.

Are nectarines okay with acid reflux?

Nectarines are among those foods that are acidic. But once they get inside your body, they metabolize themselves into an alkaline solution. Hence, they can help you get relief from acid reflux and gastritis. But this only happens if you consume a small number of nectarines.

What’s healthier, apples or nectarines?

Both have their place in a healthy meal plan. Nectarines and apples, both are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the water content inside nectarines is more than that of apples. So, if you want to have a hydrating effect, nectarines can be more beneficial.

Bottom Line

Are Nectarines acidic? Yes, nectarines lie in the acidic food category but are amazingly packed with a variety of health benefits. Due to their acidic nature, they help in a lot of problems related to gastrointestinal tracts. 

They are equally beneficial for diabetes as well as for weight loss. Nectarines have a good amount of fiber. 

Also, the water content of nectarines is a reason for the healthiness of these fruits. 

Keep in mind to eat fresh nectarines in a moderate amount to extract their maximum benefits!