During digestion, the body breaks down food to an ash residue that can be acidic, alkaline or neutral, depending in large part on the food's mineral content, according to SnyderHealth.com. Some people follow the theory that avoiding acid ash foods creates a more alkaline environment in the body, claimed to be a more healthy state. In contrast, chiropractic doctor Stephen C. Gangemi says an acid ash diet is beneficial for someone who feels sluggish and depressed. Dorland's Medical Dictionary notes that an acid ash diet increases urine acidity, and is prescribed to treat urinary tract infections and prevent urinary tract stones.
Animal Products
Meat and animal products qualify as acidifying, according to Gangemi, who recommends including meat, fish, shellfish and eggs in an acid ash diet, and eating some of this protein with each meal. While Gangemi recommends cheese as an acid ash diet food, Dorland's Medical Dictionary shows the acid ash diet as prohibiting both milk and cheese. SnyderHealth.com lists the more acidic protein foods as pork, veal, beef, ocean fish, chicken, hard cheeses and eggs.
Grains
Grains, including whole wheat, corn, rye and oats, are acid ash diet foods, according to Gangemi. White bread qualifies as acidic, as do any products containing yeast. Buckwheat, millet and spelt grains are only mildly acidic, as noted by SnyderHealth.com. Gangemi recommends eating a variety of whole grains during an acid ash diet and spreading your intake throughout the day. A sandwich with poultry or meat, for example, is a good lunch option.
Sweeteners and Condiments
All types of sugar, as well as artificial sweeteners and some condiments are acidic, according to SnyderHealth.com. Examples of sugars include cane sugar, white sugar, honey, brown rice syrup and barley malt syrup. Fructose is sugar derived from fruit, while lactose is sugar derived from milk. Molasses, beet sugar, chocolate and artificial sweeteners are the most acidic sweeteners, as noted by SnyderHealth.com. Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar and soy sauce also are acid ash diet foods.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages are acidifying, according to SnyderHealth.com. Alcoholic beverages encompass any type of hard liquor, wine or beer. Caffeinated beverages include coffee, black tea, green tea, colas and any other sodas with added caffeine. Because chocolate contains caffeine in addition to sugar, chocolate and cocoa beverages qualify as acid ash diet foods.
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