Serraino M, Thompson LU. 6 Benefits of Flaxseed Oil - Flax Seeds 101: Nutrition Facts and Healt The efficacy of flaxseed and hesperidin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: an open-labeled randomized controlled trial. View abstract. Flax seeds may improve digestion by relieving diarrhea and constipation. The unfortunate fact of the matter is that most people are currently living in a state where they are 80% acidic and 20% alkaline. View abstract. Flax seeds have been shown to benefit many aspects of human health. View abstract. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Therefore, theyre considered an incomplete protein (11). Nutr J. Alkaline Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2009;34:89-98. This beverage has many other benefits as well. Flaxseeds are ok during acid reflux if you take a limited amount. 2019;46:36-43. Your body carefully controls the pH level of fluids such as blood and digestive juices. Evaluation of the efficacy of flaxseed meal and flaxseed extract in reducing menopausal symptoms. Circulating enterolactone and risk of endometrial cancer. View abstract. View abstract. View abstract. View abstract. Flaxseed is considered to be an alkaline food, which means it is not acidic. Nutr Rev. If the LES does not function properly, stomach acid can enter the esophagus and cause heartburn and chest pain-like symptoms. Welch AA, et al. Lemay A, Dodin S, Kadri N, et al. This fiber has been shown to be effective at suppressing hunger and cravings, potentially promoting weight loss (33, 34). 2021;60(1):287-298. Pilot study of dietary fat restriction and flaxseed supplementation in men with prostate cancer before surgery: exploring the effects on hormonal levels, prostate-specific antigen, and histopathologic features. Uncovering The Alkalinity Of Flax Milk: Is It The Right Plant Does it interfere with certain medications? In one study, people with heart disease were given 2.9 grams of ALA per day for one year. Sonestedt E, Borgquist S, Ericson U, et al. This is because the fat in milk helps to coat the esophagus (food pipe) and stomach. (2012). Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Mayo Clinic on High Blood Pressure - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press, Financial Assistance Documents Minnesota. Similarly, a pH of 9 is 10 times more alkaline than a reading of 8. Milk makes the stomach produce more acid, which may worsen stomach ulcers or interfere with healing. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69:395-402. Khalatbari Soltani S, Jamaluddin R, Tabibi H, Mohd Yusof BN, Atabak S, Loh SP, Rahmani L. Effects of flaxseed consumption on systemic inflammation and serum lipid profile in hemodialysis patients with lipid abnormalities. In fact, theyre only exceeded by chia seeds (15). Here are 6 foods. Clin Rheumatol. Large doses of omega-3 fatty acids may have blood-thinning effects (88). Dietary lignans and postmenopausal breast cancer risk by oestrogen receptor status: a prospective cohort study of Swedish women. Obstet Gynecol 2002;100:495-504.. View abstract. Effects of a flaxseed-derived lignan supplement in type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial. Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition. Effects of dietary flaxseed in women with cyclical mastalgia. View abstract. 016 Sep 1;21:70. Anaphylaxis caused by flaxseed. View abstract. View abstract. pH uses a scale of 0 to 14 0 being the most acidic, 7 being neutral, and 14 being highly alkaline. Effects of linseeds on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot randomised controlled trial. Effect of urine pH changed by dietary intervention on uric acid clearance mechanism of pH-dependent excretion of urinary uric acid. Other foods may help keep it alkaline. include protected health information. Int J Cancer 2004;111:444-50.. View abstract. View abstract. Mani UV, Mani I, Biswas M, Kumar SN. View abstract. View abstract. Ghaseminasab-Parizi M, Nazarinia MA, Akhlaghi M. The effect of flaxseed with or without anti-inflammatory diet in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, a randomized controlled trial. Phase II Trial of Flaxseed to Prevent Acute Complications After Chemoradiation for Lung Cancer. View abstract. Clark WF, Kortas C, Heidenheim P, et al. Wu H, Pan A, Yu Z, et al. View abstract. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;60:122-8. Your body needs both acid-forming and alkaline-forming foods. Nesbitt PD, Lam Y, Thompson LU. This can be a little complicated, as a pH level below 7 doesnt necessarily translate to an acid-forming substance. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 2013 May;33(5):367-75. Otherwise, it could lead to serious problems. Those receiving the supplement had significantly lower rates of death and heart attacks than people in the control group (52). View abstract. View abstract. Flaxseeds are less acidic to alkaline because their pH varies between 6 to 8. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. View abstract. Meta-analysis of the effects of flaxseed interventions on blood lipids. The insoluble fiber content in flax seeds adds bulk to your digestive waste, acting as a laxative and relieving constipation (32, 67). Sethi S, et al. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2000;64:49. Natural Medicines. WebAlthough it might seem that citrus fruits would have an acidifying effect on the body, the citric acid they contain actually has an alkalinizing effect in the system. Flax Seed Effects of Vitex agnus and flaxseed on cyclic mastalgia: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20:143-8. Its best to start with small doses and work your way up to 12 tablespoons (1020 grams) daily. Crawford M, Galli C, Visioli F, et al. To know the exact amount consult with your dietitian because there are so many factors you need to check. 2014;22:43. Plant-based milk alternatives an emerging segment of functional beverages. Animal studies show that flax seeds and flaxseed lignans may cause lower birth weight and affect the development of the offsprings reproductive system especially if consumed during early pregnancy (86, 87). Prasad K. Dietary flax seed in prevention of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, Vidgen E, et al. J Am Coll Nutr 2008;27:65-74. View abstract. View abstract. View abstract. Br J Nutr 2008;101:1145-9. Role of Plant-Derived Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Human Nutrition. View abstract. Edel AL, Rodriguez-Leyva D, Maddaford TG, Caligiuri SP, Austria JA, Weighell W, Guzman R, Aliani M, Pierce GN. Supplementation with flaxseed alters estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women to a greater extent than does supplementation with an equal amount of soy. In fish such as salmon, the omega-3 fatty acids are Which is better chia seeds or flaxseeds for acid reflux? Rodriguez-Leyva D, Rodriguez-Portelles A, Weighell W, Guzman R, Maddaford TG, Pierce GN. Gholami Z, Akhlaghi M. The effect of flaxseed on physical and mental fatigue in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity: a randomised controlled trial. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on However, flax seeds dont contain as much omega-3 as fish oils. Flaxseed oil contains the highest amount of ALA, followed by milled seeds. Haggans CJ, Travelli EJ, Thomas W, et al. Dietary phytoestrogen intake--lignans and isoflavones--and breast cancer risk (Canada). Flaxseed oil doesn't have these phytoestrogens. Find out how much fiber you need, where to get it, and the best way to increase your daily intake. Flaxseed oil is near neutral in nature. Nutr Cancer 1997;27:26-30. Flaxseed oil is an oil made from pressed, ground flaxseeds. We'll tell you what the best pH levels for your drinking water are and how you can know if your water is unsafe. Nowadays, flaxseeds are getting popular because of their tremendous benefits and also fulfill your omega 3 fatty acid requirements that your body cant produce. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. Plasma enterolignans are associated with lower colorectal adenoma risk. Mohammadi-Sartang M, Mazloom Z, Raeisi-Dehkordi H, Barati-Bodaji R, Bellisimo N, Totosy de Zepetnek JO. Flaxseed Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits - Verywell Fit View abstract. People also prefer morning snacks to boost up metabolism. Bongartz U, Hochmann U, Grube B, et al. What is the pH level of tea? 2013 Apr;17(2):275-81. View abstract. View abstract. Most nuts, such as cashews, peanuts, walnuts, and pistachios, are acid-forming foods. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Nutr Cancer 1990;13:1-8.. View abstract. Despite its acidic pH, some people say lemon juice has alkalizing effects in the body. View abstract. lignans (SDG and SECO), phenolic acids and their derivatives, were identified and quantified by the HPLC method [ 20] using a Waters 600 high-performance liquid chromatograph (Waters, Millford, MA, USA) equipped with a Cadenza 5CD-C18 Flaxseeds are a good source of. Carcinogenesis 1996;17:1373-6. Theyre also rich in fat and one of the best plant-based sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. View abstract. Occasionally, using flaxseed or flaxseed oil causes an allergic reaction. Flax lignans also help reduce blood pressure, oxidative stress, and inflammation in your arteries (31). View abstract. Similar to the hormone estrogen, phytoestrogens might have anti-cancer properties. View abstract. Enterolactone is differently associated with estrogen receptor beta-negative and -positive breast cancer in a Swedish nested case-control study. Khandouzi N, Zahedmehr A, Mohammadzadeh A, Sanati HR, Nasrollahzadeh J. Soluble fiber is also thought to bind to water in your digestive tract. It has a very different oil profile and is low in omega-3 fatty acids (22). 2013 Aug 1;167(8):708-13. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. 2019;10:218. View abstract. View abstract. Rickard SE, Yuan YV, Thompson LU. View abstract. Binary ethanolwater solvents affect phenolic profile and www.naturaleyecare.com is using a security service for protection against online attacks. Flaxseeds are less acidic to alkaline because their pH varies between 6 to 8. Touillaud MS, Thiebaut AC, Fournier A, et al. Nutr Cancer 1999;33:188-95. View abstract. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. 2. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that's changing medicine. They have weak estrogenic and antioxidant properties (30). Curr Probl Cardiol 2022;47(7):100931. View abstract. What Is Imitation Crab and Should You Eat It? Azrad M, Vollmer RT, Madden J, Dewhirst M, Polascik TJ, Snyder DC, Ruffin MT, Moul JW, Brenner DE, Demark-Wahnefried W. Flaxseed-derived enterolactone is inversely associated with tumor cell proliferation in men with localized prostate cancer. The oil contains A-linoleic acids which convert it into omega 3 fatty acid, rather than this, no such benefits you are getting from this oil. Potent antihypertensive action of dietary flaxseed in hypertensive patients. Some people also take flaxseed to treat inflammatory diseases. Haidari F, Banaei-Jahromi N, Zakerkish M, Ahmadi K. The effects of flaxseed supplementation on metabolic status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized open-labeled controlled clinical trial. Flaxseed is high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans, all of which can help promote Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. Bierenbaum ML, Reichstein R, Watkins TR. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed. Khalesi S, et al. Find out here. Int J Food Sci Nutr. Nutr Cancer 1992;17:153-9. WebFlaxseed oil comes from flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum). View abstract. They contain plant compounds that may adversely affect some people and are not considered safe for high-dose consumption in early pregnancy. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. They have been shown to decrease heart disease risk in animal studies by reducing inflammation in the arteries (47). 2014 Jul;63(7):945-50. Flaxseed is a good source of dietary fiber. View abstract. For each 5 mm Hg reduction in systolic and 25 mm Hg reduction in diastolic blood pressure, your risk of stroke is estimated to be reduced by 1113% and your risk of heart disease by 34% (60, 61). You canadd cardamomandfennelafter a meal that also improves your digestion. While most legumes are acid-forming foods, soy beans are neutral or alkaline. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 12 Fascinating Benefits and Uses of Basil Seeds, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 6080% insoluble fiber (cellulose and lignin), 73% polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-6 fatty acids and the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), 27% monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. View abstract. Structure conformation, physicochemical and rheological Kuijsten A, Arts IC, Hollman PC, et al. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Its even thought to be a remedy for acid reflux or heartburn. Food helps in weight loss because a small amount of food makes you fuller and manages your appetite. Stomach acid has a low pH of about 1.5. Thus, you need to obtain it from the food you eat. Schwalfenberg GK. Most people prefer at night after a meal because the food contains serotonin which is good for your sleep. Eur J Clin Nutr 1998;52:749-53. As a general rule, dairy (such as cows milk), meat, poultry, fish, and most grains are acid-forming foods. J Med Food 2008;11:207-14. These shiny, reddish or golden-brown seeds are the richest natural source of alpha linolenic acid (ALA), an Yari Z, Rahimlou M, Eslamparast T, Ebrahimi-Daryani N, Poustchi H, Hekmatdoost A. Flaxseed supplementation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a pilot randomized, open labeled, controlled study. J Altern Complement Med 2021;27(10):824-831. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005;90:1390-7. View abstract. Verheus M, van Gils CH, Keinan-Boker L, et al. Natural Medicines. View abstract. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990;595:281-90. Here is a detailed review of the. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000;9:719-25. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. 2016 Jun;35(3):615-25. The red part of the test will turn blue if your body is more alkaline. Additionally, they can be extracted with the aid of alkaline or acid (e.g., hydrochloric acid) hydrolysis, but this method could be destructive for the target compounds whether too long heating periods or too high concentrations are used. Alpha-linolenic acid and risk of prostate cancer: a case-control study in Uruguay. Remember, though, that the exact pH level is less important than whether its acid-forming or alkaline-forming. Remember, the above answer is clearly meant to provide general health information only and is not a substitute for a doctors opinion or treatment recommendations. Kilkkinen A, Stumpf K, Pietinen P, et al. Flax seeds may help fight heart disease by lowering blood pressure, regulating blood cholesterol, and increasing your levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Lucas EA, Wild RD, Hammond LJ, et al. Currently, the seeds of flax (flaxseed) are experiencing popularity as a functional food ingredient rich in oil containing -linolenic acid, soluble polysaccharide mucilage, and mammalian lignin precursors. This may be because these foods are high in minerals such as potassium that are important for muscle and bone health. View abstract. WebLemon juice and vinegar are highly acidic with a pH around 2 ( acidic outside the body, anyway more on that in a moment) Bleach and ammonia are highly alkaline with a pH around 13 and 11, respectively (not that we would drink them, but just for context) Water is neutral at 7. WebFlaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid. The inhibitory effect of flaxseed on the growth and metastasis of estrogen receptor negative human breast cancer xenografts is attributed to both its lignan and oil components. How much flaxseed should you eat during acid reflux? Alkaline-Acid Food Charts A food doesnt have to taste acidic or have a low pH to be acid-forming in the body. However, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, its recommended to limit your intake of flax seeds and other dietary sources of phytoestrogens. However, when taken in large amounts and with too little water, flaxseed can cause: Avoid use of flaxseed and flaxseed oil during pregnancy. J Am Coll Nutr 1993;12:501-4. www.naturaleyecare.com is using a security service for protection against online attacks. View abstract. The food is high in omega 3 fatty acid, which is good for your heart and also protects you from a stroke. 2018 Feb 1;76(2):125-39. View abstract. Flaxseed might slow blood clotting. Eating flax seeds is an effective way to lower blood pressure (31, 56, 57, 58, 59). Cotterchio M, Boucher BA, Kreiger N, et al. View abstract. Similar to other seeds, flax seeds contain phytic acid. 2019;29:41-48. View abstract. Flax ( Linus usitatissimum L.) is an oilseed crop that has been cultivated over centuries. Chia seeds are versatile and packed with nutrients. So, flax seeds are safe to take on acid reflux and remember flax seeds are also high in omega 3 fatty acids compared to chia seeds. Milk is a popular beverage that is hotly debated in terms of pros and cons for your health. Maintaining healthy levels of testosterone is important for gaining muscle mass, improving sexual function, and boosting strength. (2013). Javidi A, Mozaffari-Khosravi H, Nadjarzadeh A, Dehghani A, Eftekhari MH. Though the safe upper limit of flaxseed intake has not been determined, one study concluded that 5 tablespoons (50 grams) per day is safe and beneficial for most healthy people (14). Your pH level may change throughout the day. View abstract. Yogurt and buttermilk are alkaline-forming foods despite having low pH levels between 4.4 and 4.8. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which This also includes some soy products. See your doctor to get an accurate pH test. From beginners to advanced, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008;17:3241-51. 2019:1-8. 2020;152:104622. For people who are not used to eating a lot of fiber, incorporating flax seeds too quickly can cause mild digestive problems. Usually, soy milk is alkaline forming in the body. This makes it slightly alkaline or basic. Demark-Wahnefried W, Polascik TJ, George SL, et al. The range may seem small. 2019;97(6):557-561. Flaxseeds contain few acids that make the seeds less acidic though these acids are healthy like amino acids. This may include limiting milk and dairy products or switching to an alkaline-forming plant-based milk, such as soy milk or almond milk. Monitor your blood sugar closely. Several studies have found that flax seeds prevent both diarrhea and constipation (64, 65, 66). Rodriguez-Leyva D, Weighell W, Edel AL, LaVallee R, Dibrov E, Pinneker R, Maddaford TG, Ramjiawan B, Aliani M, Guzman R, Pierce GN. 2020;29(1):61-67. A study found that women who ate more alkaline-forming foods had less natural muscle loss due to aging. These include thiamine (vitamin B1), copper, molybdenum, magnesium, and phosphorus. www.naturaleyecare.com is using a security service for protection against online attacks. Note that a food's acid or alkaline forming tendency in the body has nothing to do with the actual pH of the food itself. A pH of 7 is neutral. Health aspects of partially defatted flaxseed, including effects on serum lipids, oxidative measures, and ex vivo androgen and progestin activity: a controlled, crossover trial. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2003;31:47-9. . J Nutr 2008;138:938-45. This article tells you everything you need to know about flax seeds. View abstract. Flaxseed attenuates the tumor growth stimulating effect of soy protein in ovariectomized athymic mice with MCF-7 human breast cancer xenografts. 3. Flax seeds are usually brown or yellow. J Res Med Sci. Flax seeds are very high in fiber and provide good amounts of protein. Sairanen U, Piirainen L, Nevala R, Korpela R. Yoghurt containing galacto-oligosaccharides, prunes and linseed reduces the severity of mild constipation in elderly subjects. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. View abstract. Bloedon LT, Balikai S, Chittams J, et al. Nutr Res. View abstract. Urinary lignan and isoflavonoid excretion in premenopausal women consuming flaxseed powder. View abstract. A prospective study of dietary fat and risk of prostate cancer. Hashempur MH, Homayouni K, Ashraf A, Salehi A, Taghizadeh M, Heydari M. Effect of Linum usitatissimum L. (linseed) oil on mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Sung MK, Lautens M, Thompson LU. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. Blood has a pH range of 7.35 to 7.45. Negative Effects of Flaxseed Meal Flax seeds have become popular due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and other plant compounds, which are responsible for many of the seeds benefits. Zeleniuch-Jacquotte A, Lundin E, Micheli A, et al. Phytother Res 2021;35(7):3781-3791. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:62-8. View abstract. Flaxseed in pediatric hyperlipidemia: a placebo-controlled, blinded, randomized clinical trial of dietary flaxseed supplementation for children and adolescents with hypercholesterolemia. Anaphylaxis caused by linseed (flaxseed) intake. After digestion, it maintains a pH You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. Mammalian lignans inhibit the growth of estrogen-independent human colon tumor cells. Pharmacol Res. View abstract. I recommend taking flaxseeds with your fluid intake during acid reflux, like mixing flaxseeds with water. This means that theyre low in net digestible carbs the number of total carbs minus the amount of fiber making them a low-carb food. For optimal health status, this ratio needs to be reversed. And what's the deal with alkaline. Basil seeds have a long history of use in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, but their health effects have only been tested in a few studies. Nutrition/Foods/acidity.html, journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/000348941112000501, environmentmed.org/text.asp?2017/2/3/76/216533, chemistry.elmhurst.edu/vchembook/184ph.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs13197-016-2328-3, achs.edu/mediabank/files/achswellnessguide.pdf. Flaxseed in lupus nephritis: a two-year nonplacebo-controlled crossover study. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. View abstract. March 1, 2020. Flaxseed improves lipid profile without altering biomarkers of bone metabolism in postmenopausal women. The nutrients, minerals, and vitamins in a food are what make it acid or alkaline forming. Effect of a homemade salivary substitute prepared using chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) flower and flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) seed to relieve primary burning mouth syndrome: a preliminary report. This is because it contains lactic acid. Moreover, you can take flaxseeds which are healthy and safe for acid reflux but a limited amount. Flaxseeds have 534 calories per 3.5 ounces (100 grams) corresponding to 55 calories for each tablespoon (10 grams) of whole seeds. It contains fiber and other nutrients that help to absorb stomach acid and give you relief from acidic pain. Yari Z, Cheraghpour M, Alavian SM, Hedayati M, Eini-Zinab H, Hekmatdoost A. The American College of Healthcare Sciences notes that raw milk is also an exception; it may be alkaline-forming. Flax seeds are currently gaining popularity as a superfood. Dry flax seeds are usually well tolerated, and allergy is rare (82). The alkaline diet. Flaxseed and cardiovascular risk factors: results from a double blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Several studies link ALA with a lower risk of stroke, heart attacks, and chronic kidney disease. Reduction of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis by CDC-flaxseed with very low alpha-linolenic acid. Nutr Rev 2004;62:18-27. A review of controlled studies concluded that flax seeds promote weight loss in overweight and obese people. View abstract. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2021;18(1):91. (2016). https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. Flax seeds are high in several plant compounds, including p-Coumaric acid, ferulic acid, cyanogenic glycosides, phytosterols, and lignans. Diarrhea and constipation cause major distress and may even threaten your health. This is especially true for oxidized LDL (bad) cholesterol (36). Omega-3 fatty acids are essential. This is a detailed review of the alkaline diet, including foods to eat and avoid and an in-depth look at the science behind it. View abstract. A pH above 7 is alkaline, and anything below 7 is acidic.