Are Burritos Healthy? [Benefits and Risks]
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: January 2, 2026
Burritos are fan favorites at most restaurants because of how delicious and versatile they are. No matter what kind of food you like, there’s a burrito for everyone.
But, are burritos healthy?
What makes a burrito healthy or unhealthy is the stuffing. Though the tortilla adds value to it, a burrito is about the ingredients you put inside it. The taste, the nutrients, the calories- it all changes with the stuffing. You can easily make your burrito healthy by choosing nutritious elements for it.
This is not all. We explained more- from their nutritional breakdown to the health benefits of different stuffings. Spare a few minutes and read along.
Are Burritos Healthy For You?
Burritos are absolutely healthy for you. Nutritious vegetables wrapped up in a soft tortilla- sounds like a quick and healthy meal.
The healthiness of it does depend mostly on the ingredients. However, the composition of it remains more or less the same for all burritos. And, so do the benefits and risks associated with it.
Benefits
Combined with all the vegetables, meat, and grains- burritos are surely a full package. So, they offer a lot of health benefits.
Burritos make a perfect healthy breakfast. They give you a good energy boost with the high carbs and protein content. Pack it up with your favorite veggies and it’ll give you full for a long time.
They’re full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. All these support your immune system if eaten in proper quantities. Try making a rainbow out of your vegetables to get the most out of your burrito.
If you’re trying to bodybuild and wondering, are burritos good for muscle building? The simple answer is, yes, they can be. Make sure to stuff your burrito with good quality protein instead of processed or red meat.
Burritos are also good sources of fiber. A good bean burrito can help with your constipation and improve your overall gut health.
Risks
With something as flavorful as burritos, it’s easy to overindulge sometimes. And that’s where it can become a problem
Burritos are full of fats, especially saturated fats. Eating too many burritos is in no way good for your health. It can lead to an early heart attack among other health problems.
If you’re wondering whether burritos are good for weight loss or not, then no, they’re not. Burritos are high in calories. They’ll put you in a caloric surplus, which you don’t want when trying to lose weight.
Burritos are also known to cause heartburns. The fat content can cause indigestion and ingredients like beans will cause acid reflux. So, avoid burritos if you frequently suffer from gas problems.
The cream, the meat, the guacamole- all these things are fatty ingredients. And as we all know, that much fat can’t be good for your heart. Although good fats can reduce bad cholesterol, too much fats can still ruin your heart health.
If you’re diabetic, then you should skip the burritos as well. Burritos are filled with carbs starting from the tortilla to the rice in it. It’ll instantly cause an insulin spike which makes burritos bad for diabetes.
In a nutshell, burritos can be healthy for you. You just need to choose the right ingredients for yourself.
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Nutritional Facts About An Average Burrito
Now, let’s take a look at the approximate nutritional values of a 100g burrito-
| Nutrition | Chicken Burrito | Beef Burrito | Beans Burrito |
| Calories | 179 kcal | 238 kcal | 206 kcal |
| Fats | 6 g | 9 g | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 21 mg | 29 mg | 2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g | 27 g | 33 g |
| Protein | 10 g | 12 g | 6 g |
| Sodium | 564 mg | 678 mg | 454 mg |
| Potassium | 264 mg | 336 mg | 301 mg |
You can see in the table, the three kinds of burritos vastly differ in their nutritional values.
The beef burrito seems to have the highest calories, cholesterol and sodium. At first glance, surely it looks like the beef burrito is the unhealthiest among the three.
But there’s more to it. Every burrito recipe is different. A beef burrito with no cheese can be healthier compared to a bean burrito full of cheese.
So, it’s too soon to single out the beef burrito as the bad one. Let’s move to the next part to know the details about the healthiness of a burrito.
What Makes Up An Unhealthy Burrito?
Burritos are so simple yet so tasty. It’s understandable if you want to eat them everyday. If you love eating it, you should also know the effects of it on your health.
The Stuffings
As you already know, the stuffing makes the burrito. To decide the healthiness of a burrito, you need to make the insides healthy. The stuffing can be made up of anything you like. Even if it’s not usually used. It’s really up to you.
Here are some common ingredients put inside a burrito and how it affects the healthiness of it-
Cheese
Cheddar cheese is the most used cheese in burritos. It’s a great source of calcium, iron, vitamins A and K. But, it’s also high in saturated fat, which’ll increase your cholesterol levels.
Beef
We all can agree on the fact that beef is a delicious source of high-quality protein. But, it’s also a type of red meat. And, red meat is really bad for your heart when consumed a lot.
Chicken
Chicken is one of the healthiest animal meats. It’s low in saturated fat and high in essential amino acids and vitamins. It’s even higher in omega-6 fatty acids than other animals.
Beans
Beans are full of fiber, protein and a bunch of healthy minerals. They’re good for diabetes, weight control and heart health. Do remain a little cautious as they can cause gastric issues sometimes.
Sausage
Sausage is processed meat. You can already guess from the word “processed” that it’s not really healthy. It’s high in sodium and preservatives. That makes it really bad for the heart and increases cancer risk.
Rice
Rice is a great source of carbohydrates. Although it provides negligible health nutritional benefits, it’s fiber-rich and good for your stomach health. Too much of it’s still bad as it’s very starchy.
Vegetables
You can usually find lettuce, corn, tomatoes, zucchini, onions, and even mushrooms. Vegetables are always good for you unless you are allergic or suffer from certain conditions.
Guacamole
Guacamole is made of avocado. It’s full of healthy fats and essential nutrients. But even though it’s healthy, watch the amount as it’s high in calories and fats.
Condiments
Sour cream and ketchup are mostly used in burritos. They surely enhance the taste, but they’re not really good for your health. Sour cream is full of saturated fats while ketchup has a lot of sugar and salt. So, maybe you should consume them in moderation.
The Tortillas
Now, let’s talk about the main ingredient of a burrito, the tortilla. Some specific types of tortillas are used to wrap up a burrito.
Large flour tortillas are the most popular for making burritos. However, as popular as they may be, they’re made of refined carbs and contain excess sodium and additives.
Corn tortillas are less popular, but healthier. They are whole grain and contain less fat, calories and sodium.
Whole grain tortillas are becoming increasingly popular for burritos. They are made of whole wheat, packed with nutrients and fiber, and contain less calories.
If you’re looking for some healthy tortillas for your burritos, then don’t worry. We picked out the best options for you so you don’t have to look further-
| Mission Carb Balance Whole Wheat Tortillas | Check for price |
| Maria & Ricardo’s Organic Whole Wheat Tortillas | Check for price |
How to Make A Burrito Healthy?
Your burrito can be healthy only if you want them to be. Swap out some ingredients for their healthier alternatives and you’ll have yourself a healthy wrap.
Here are 5 quick and easy ways you can make your burrito healthy-
- Go for whole grain tortillas instead of regular flour ones.
- Try quinoa, beans, or farro instead of rice.
- If you want beans, opt for low sodium ones or cook some dried beans in water.
- Skip the fatty condiments. You can find many homemade options for sour cream and burrito sauce.
- Lean meat is always better than red meat. Try not to stuff your burrito with too much red or processed meat.
And that is how you can make a healthy burrito. Always remember, healthiness is a choice. So, it’s up to you to make your burrito healthy or unhealthy.
FAQs
Are Burritos Healthier Than Tacos?
Burritos and tacos are similar in composition and ingredients. But, tacos are smaller in size and can work as light snacks. Whereas, burritos are full meals. Tacos are similar to burritos in healthiness, they can be healthy if you want them to be.
Are Burritos Healthier Than Pizza?
Burritos are definitely healthier than pizzas. Pizzas contain a higher amount of carbs, fats, and calories. They’re also bigger in size. Burritos have a lower GI, packed with nutrients, and you can make them healthier if you want.
Is Burrito A Processed Food?
All burritos are not processed food, only frozen burritos are. Frozen burritos are convenient and have a longer shelf life. But, they contain too much sodium and preservatives. The quantity of nutrients is also way less compared to fresh burritos.
Final Verdict
So, are burritos healthy? Yes, they can be, if you want them to be.
What ingredients are you going to choose to make your own healthy version of burrito?
Let us know which one you liked the most. Good luck!
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Are Apples Acidic? Apples for GERD: Good or Bad?
“A little sweet and a little tart; who doesn’t like the apple bite?”
When we bite an apple, we have no idea what’s inside. However, when you have health issues like GERD or acid reflux, will they keep us healthy or send us to a doctor? Then the question may pop, “Are apples acidic?”
Apples are low-acidic, containing malic acid and ascorbic acid. They have a pH level of around 3.5, less acidic than lemons but more acidic than bananas. However, apples’ acidity doesn’t adversely affect your acid reflux. Besides, they are a good source of fiber and vitamins, keeping you healthy.
However, not all foods are suitable for everyone. No matter how low-acidic apples are, it’s always wise to follow doctors’ suggestions.
Let’s check in detail to what extent do apples contain acid? Are we going to be able to avoid visits to the doctor because of it?
Why are apples acidic?
Anything on a pH scale from 0 to 6.9 is considered acidic. The apple’s pH is around 3.5, so it falls in the acidic range. Also, Apples are acidic because they contain malic acid.
Malic acid is a sour-tasting compound found in many fruits and vegetables. Apples contain more malic acid than most other fruits, which is why they have a tart, tangy flavor.
Other fruits that contain similar or more malic acid include apples, pears, and cherries. It is an additive in food and beverages and a component of some dietary supplements.
pH of Apple
The pH value of apples is around 3.5, which means they are slightly acidic. However, the acidity level of apples varies depending on the type of apple. For example, Granny Smith apples are more acidic than Golden Delicious apples.
| Apples | pH Values |
| Apple, baked with sugar | 3.20 – 3.55 |
| Apple, eating | 3.30-4.00 |
| Apple – Delicious | 3.9 |
| Apple – Golden Delicious | 3.6 |
| Apple – Jonathan | 3.33 |
| Apple – McIntosh | 3.34 |
| Apple Juice | 3.35-4.00 |
| Apple Sauce | 3.10-3.60 |
| Apple – Winesap | 3.47 |
pH of Apple Juice
The pH of apple juice is around 3.48-3.69, and apple juice is surprisingly more acidic than orange juice. According to the USDA, the pH of apple juices is below.
| Apple Juices | pH Values |
| apple juice | 3.48-3.69 |
| apple juice, Delicious | 3.55-3.79 |
| apple juice, Golden Delicious | 3.78-3.94 |
| apple juice, Jonathan | 3.52-3.62 |
| apple juice, Grimes | 3.74-3.82 |
| apple juice, Stayman | 3.54-3.62 |
| apple juice, Winesap | 3.57-3.65 |
Are Apples Acidic in The Body?
Apples are acidic in the body, but in a good way. Apples’ acidity is relatively low on the pH scale, and they are considered neutral foods.
However, when you eat an apple, your body does have to work a little harder to digest it. This is because apples contain a type of acid called malic acid.
Malic acid is also found in other fruits and vegetables, but it’s not as common as in apples.
Are Apples Good For Acid Reflux?
An alkaline environment in the stomach is thought by some to be effective in neutralizing the acid. Eating an apple after a meal or before bedtime can help you get a good night’s sleep.
Apples provide a healthy dose of three essential minerals: calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The alkalinizing properties of these minerals have been hypothesized to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
However, use a sweet apple rather than a sour one to get the best results.
Best Apple For Acid Reflux
Some apples are more acidic than others, triggering heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms. So, what is the best apple for acid reflux?
The answer may surprise you – it’s the Granny Smith apple.
This tart apple is less acidic than other types of apples and can help neutralize stomach acid. It makes it an ideal choice for people who suffer from acid reflux.
So, if you’re looking for an apple that won’t trigger your symptoms, reach for a Granny Smith the next time you’re at the store.
Least Acidic Apples For Acid Reflux
A few different apples are the least acidic and thus may be better for people with acid reflux. These include
- Red Delicious,
- Golden Delicious, and
- Granny Smith apples.
These apples have a pH level of around 3.5-4.5, which is less acidic than other types of apples.
Are Apples Bad For Acid Reflux?
Apples are generally safe to eat, but some varieties may aggravate acid reflux symptoms.
Red apples do not typically worsen symptoms for those with acid reflux. Some people may experience discomfort eating green apples due to their higher acidity.
But this is not generally the case with red apples. Red apples are a good option if you have acid reflux and are looking for a safe fruit to eat.
Acidity Level of Different Types of Apples
Apples are of different types – red, green, golden, gala, etc. So, a question can be, do all types of apples contain the same acidity level? Well, the simple answer is no.
Different apples contain different pH levels, and here’s the list.
| Apple Types | pH level |
| Gala | 6.2 |
| Ida Red | 3.0 |
| Golden | 4.0 |
| Golden Delicious | 4.2 |
| Amri | 3.8 |
| Red Chief | 4.0 |
| Spartin | 4.3 |
| Red Golden | 4.3 |
| Sky Spur | 4.8 |
| Granny | 3.0 |
| Jona Gold | 4.3 |
| Double Red | 4.2 |
Are red apples acidic?
Yes. Red apples are acidic. However, the acidity level is pretty low, which you can consider acidic.
As we all know, apples are among the tastiest fruits ever. However, determining whether or not apples are beneficial is an important task.
Are green apples acidic?
Green apples are acidic, with a pH of 3.1. The reason is the high levels of malic acid in the fruit. While the acidity of green apples may vary depending on the variety, they are generally more acidic than other apples.
Are cooked apples acidic?
You may consider raw apples acidic and cooked apples not. But cooked apples are also acidic, with a pH of 3.5-4.0.
The presence of malic acid in apples also keeps cooked apples acidic.
When you cook apples, the malic acid breaks down into other acids, including lactic acid, which makes the apple more acidic.
Are Gala apples acidic?
Gala apples are a type of apple known for being sweet and crisp. While the pH level of a Gala apple can vary depending on where it is grown and how ripe it is, they are generally considered slightly acidic. This acidity gives Gala apples their characteristic tart flavor, which many people enjoy.
Are Apples Acidic For Teeth?
Yes, apples are acidic for teeth. The acidity in apples can cause tooth enamel to erode over time. This is why brushing your teeth after eating an apple is important.
7 Impressive Health Benefits of Apple
Apples are a popular fruit that offers a range of health benefits.
They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage.
Studies have shown that apples may help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and cancer. They may also help improve gut health and cognitive function. Overall, apples are a nutritious fruit that can offer many health benefits.
Boost Immunity
Who wouldn’t want a powerful immune system as autumn approaches? Do you know apples could be a booster for your immune system?
Studies found that a high-soluble-fiber diet promoted the differentiation of pro-inflammatory immune cells into anti-inflammatory, immune-supportive ones. However, more research is needed.
Moreover, vitamin C, found in apples, is known to help the immune system.
According to a review published in the journal Nutrients in November 201, vitamin C protects against environmental oxidative stress caused by pollution and radiation and helps the epithelial (a type of tissue) barrier against pathogens.
Heart Friendly
“An apple a day keeps a doctor away.” Well, you can say it about heart disease.
Do you know that eating an apple daily reduces the risk of heart disease?
Apples contain soluble fiber, which can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. They may also provide polyphenols, which also help keep your heart healthy.
In addition, apples also contain Epicatechin, a flavonoid type with hypotensive effects.
A study showed that flavonoids might be connected to reduced stroke risk.
Additionally, they can aid in the prevention of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, decreasing LDL cholesterol oxidation, and slowing the development of atherosclerosis.
Gut Health Friendly
Apples are a good source of the prebiotic fiber pectin. This means the beneficial bacteria in your gut (the gut microbiota) will benefit by consuming apples.
Pectin, a type of dietary fiber you can’t digest, arrives at your colon undamaged and encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria. It boosts the ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes, the two main types of gut bacteria.
As you know, the microbiota in your digestive tract plays a significant role in your health and disease resistance.
Recent studies suggest that eating apples can help prevent chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer by positively influencing the gut microbiota.
Lowers Diabetic Risks
Apples have been shown to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
According to a meta-analysis of epidemiological studies, eating fruit like apples and pears has been linked to an 18% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It has been suggested that consuming even one serving per week can reduce risk by 3%.
This beneficial effect may be due to the high levels of the antioxidant polyphenols quercetin and phloridzin in these foods. Phloridzin is thought to decrease intestinal sugar absorption, lowering blood sugar levels and the likelihood of developing diabetes.
Insulin resistance is a major contributor to the development of diabetes, but quercetin’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate this problem.
Helps to Lose Weight
For weight loss, foods that fill you longer are vital. Fiber and water content in apples contribute to their filling nature.
One study found that compared to consuming the same amount of apple purée or juice, eating whole apples increased feelings of fullness for up to 4 hours longer. That’s because eating an entire apple slows your stomach’s emptying process.
In addition, studies show that eating apples can significantly lower Body Mass Index (BMI), a weight-related risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
It has been speculated that apple polyphenols can also help fight obesity.
Keep Your Brain Refreshed
The antioxidant effects of quercetin have been studied in rats. The results suggest it may protect the brain and nerves from oxidative damage and injuries that can lead to degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Furthermore, quercetin may protect against nerve damage caused by stress by controlling oxidative and inflammatory stress markers.
However, remember that most studies examine a specific compound instead of apples as a whole. Because of this, more study is required before we can make any conclusions.
FAQs
Is an apple alkaline or acidic?
An apple is an acidic fruit with a pH level of around 3.5. It is slightly less acidic than lemons and other citrus fruits but more acidic than bananas and grapes. It’s the malic acid that makes apples acidic.
This acid is also found in other fruits, such as pears and cherries. Malic acid is a type of organic acid used in many foods and drinks as a flavoring agent.
Are apples OK for acid reflux?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual. Some people find that apples help relieve their acid reflux symptoms, while others find that they worsen them. If you are unsure, it is best to speak to a doctor or dietitian who can advise you on what is best for you.
Are apples a low-acid fruit?
Yes, apples are low-acid fruit. This means that they have a pH level of 3.5 or lower. Apples are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. Lemon and lime are more acidic than apples, with a pH value between 2 to 3.
Which fruit is least acidic?
Many fruits are low in acidity, including watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, mango, papaya, and pineapple. These fruits are all less acidic than other fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
Conclusion
Apples are crunchy, sweet, tangy, and delicious fruits with several health benefits. However, when it comes to GERD, one common question is, Are apples acidic? Will it worsen your condition?
Apples are acidic; however lower in pH level, around 3.5. Green apples are more acidic than red apples. Due to this, eating green apples may affect your acid reflux. However, red apples are relatively safer.
But apples are nutrient-dense fruits that can help in several ways to promote long-term wellness and protect you against disease. So, you can add apples to your diet to be fit and healthy.
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