Alkaline Beverages Guide

40 items classified under standard Alkaline guidelines.

Alkaline classifies foods based on PRAL score (potential renal acid load). Of the 40 beverages evaluated, 10 are classified as Allowed, 16 as Limited, and 14 as Not Allowed.

Quick Reference

Food Status Calories (per 100g)
Coconut Water Allowed 37kcal
Coffee Allowed 34kcal
Green Tea Allowed 1kcal
Herbal Tea Allowed 2kcal
Kombucha Allowed 16kcal
Lemon Water Allowed 29kcal
Matcha Allowed 324kcal
Plain Coconut Water Allowed 18kcal
Plain Kombucha Allowed 407kcal
Sparkling Water Allowed 0kcal
Apple Juice Limited 48kcal
Black Tea Limited 0kcal
Bone Broth Limited 16kcal
Chai Tea Limited 53kcal
Cranberry Juice Limited 46kcal
Decaf Coffee Limited 34kcal
Electrolyte Drinks Limited 10kcal
Espresso Limited 9kcal
Flavored Coconut Water Limited 18kcal
Flavored Kombucha Limited 16kcal
Flavored Water Limited 19kcal
Hot Chocolate Limited 72kcal
Oat Milk Limited 45kcal
Orange Juice Limited 47kcal
Sweetened Electrolyte Drinks Limited 27kcal
Unsweetened Electrolyte Tablets Limited 84kcal
Apple Cider Not Allowed 46kcal
Beer Not Allowed 238kcal
Diet Soda Not Allowed 0kcal
Energy Drinks Not Allowed 43kcal
Half and Half Not Allowed 131kcal
Hard Seltzer Not Allowed 24kcal
Kefir Not Allowed 62kcal
Kombucha (Hard) Not Allowed 394kcal
Lactose-Free Milk Not Allowed 167kcal
Rum Not Allowed 231kcal
Tequila Not Allowed 231kcal
Vodka Not Allowed 231kcal
Whiskey Not Allowed 231kcal
Wine Not Allowed 85kcal

Classification Breakdown

10 Allowed — These beverages are alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. 16 Limited — These items have roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. 14 Not Allowed — These are acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain.

Blood pH does not change with food, but the eating pattern — produce-forward, low in processed food — is defensible on its own merits.

Allowed Beverages (10)

Coconut Water

Allowed

At 37kcal calories per 100g, Coconut Water falls into the Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Within this category, it falls between Decaf Coffee and Energy Drinks for calories, ranking 19 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiber
Plain18kcal0.2g0g4.2g0g
Sweetened37kcal0.2g0g9.1g0g

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Coffee

Allowed

Coffee is classified as Allowed on Alkaline, with 34kcal calories per 100g. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Within this category, it falls between Lemon Water and Decaf Coffee for calories, ranking 17 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

34kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.2gFat
7.8gCarbs
0gFiber

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Green Tea

Allowed

Green Tea is classified as Allowed on Alkaline, with 1kcal calories per 100g. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Among the 40 items in this category, green tea sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Herbal Tea at 2kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

1kcalCalories
0.2gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Herbal Tea

Allowed

At 2kcal calories per 100g, Herbal Tea falls into the Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Among the 40 items in this category, herbal tea sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Espresso at 9kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

2kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.2gFat
0gCarbs
Fiber

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Kombucha

Allowed

Kombucha is classified as Allowed on Alkaline, with 16kcal calories per 100g. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Among the 40 items in this category, kombucha sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Bone Broth at 16kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

16kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0gFat
4gCarbs
0gFiber

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Lemon Water

Allowed

With 29kcal calories per 100g, Lemon Water earns a Allowed classification on Alkaline. It is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Beyond the primary classification, lemon water also provides 2.8g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Sweetened Electrolyte Drinks and Coffee for calories, ranking 16 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

29kcalCalories
1.1gProtein
0.3gFat
9.3gCarbs
2.8gFiber

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Matcha

Allowed

At 324kcal calories per 100g, Matcha falls into the Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. It is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Beyond the primary classification, matcha also provides 30.6g protein and 5.3g fat per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Beer at 238kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

324kcalCalories
30.6gProtein
5.3gFat
38.9gCarbs
38.5gFiber

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Plain Coconut Water

Allowed

With 18kcal calories per 100g, Plain Coconut Water earns a Allowed classification on Alkaline. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Within this category, it falls between Flavored Kombucha and Flavored Coconut Water for calories, ranking 11 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

18kcalCalories
0.2gProtein
0gFat
4.2gCarbs
0gFiber

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Plain Kombucha

Allowed

Plain Kombucha is classified as Allowed on Alkaline, with 407kcal calories per 100g. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. It also contains 11.9g protein and 6.6g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Kombucha (Hard) at 394kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

407kcalCalories
11.9gProtein
6.6gFat
73.5gCarbs
5.1gFiber

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Sparkling Water

Allowed

With 0kcal calories per 100g, Sparkling Water earns a Allowed classification on Alkaline. This means it is alkaline-forming after metabolism — typically vegetables, fruit, or potassium-rich plants. Among the 40 items in this category, sparkling water sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Black Tea at 0kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

0kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Limited Beverages (16)

Apple Juice

Limited

At 48kcal calories per 100g, Apple Juice falls into the Limited category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Orange Juice and Chai Tea for calories, ranking 25 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

48kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.3gFat
11.3gCarbs
0.2gFiber

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Black Tea

Limited

With 0kcal calories per 100g, Black Tea earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Among the 40 items in this category, black tea sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Diet Soda at 0kcal. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

0kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Bone Broth

Limited

With 16kcal calories per 100g, Bone Broth earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Among the 40 items in this category, bone broth sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Flavored Kombucha at 16kcal. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

16kcalCalories
2gProtein
0.6gFat
0.4gCarbs
0gFiber

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Chai Tea

Limited

At 53kcal calories per 100g, Chai Tea falls into the Limited category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Apple Juice and Kefir for calories, ranking 26 of 40. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

53kcalCalories
2.5gProtein
1.4gFat
7.8gCarbs
0gFiber

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Cranberry Juice

Limited

With 46kcal calories per 100g, Cranberry Juice earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Oat Milk and Apple Cider for calories, ranking 22 of 40. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

46kcalCalories
0.4gProtein
0.1gFat
12.2gCarbs
0.1gFiber

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Decaf Coffee

Limited

Decaf Coffee is classified as Limited on Alkaline, with 34kcal calories per 100g. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Coffee and Coconut Water for calories, ranking 18 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

34kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.2gFat
7.8gCarbs
0gFiber

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Electrolyte Drinks

Limited

At 10kcal calories per 100g, Electrolyte Drinks falls into the Limited category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Among the 40 items in this category, electrolyte drinks sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Kombucha at 16kcal. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

10kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
2.5gCarbs
0gFiber

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Espresso

Limited

With 9kcal calories per 100g, Espresso earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Among the 40 items in this category, espresso sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Electrolyte Drinks at 10kcal. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

9kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.2gFat
1.7gCarbs
0gFiber

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Flavored Coconut Water

Limited

Flavored Coconut Water is classified as Limited on Alkaline, with 18kcal calories per 100g. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Plain Coconut Water and Flavored Water for calories, ranking 12 of 40. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

18kcalCalories
0.2gProtein
0gFat
4.2gCarbs
0gFiber

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Flavored Kombucha

Limited

Flavored Kombucha is classified as Limited on Alkaline, with 16kcal calories per 100g. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Among the 40 items in this category, flavored kombucha sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Plain Coconut Water at 18kcal. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

16kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0gFat
4gCarbs
0gFiber

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Flavored Water

Limited

At 19kcal calories per 100g, Flavored Water falls into the Limited category under Alkaline guidelines. The classification reflects that it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Nutritionally, it also delivers 2.1g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Flavored Coconut Water and Hard Seltzer for calories, ranking 13 of 40. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

19kcalCalories
2.6gProtein
0.2gFat
3.1gCarbs
2.1gFiber

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Hot Chocolate

Limited

With 72kcal calories per 100g, Hot Chocolate earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Kefir and Unsweetened Electrolyte Tablets for calories, ranking 28 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

72kcalCalories
1.8gProtein
1gFat
13.9gCarbs
0.2gFiber

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Oat Milk

Limited

With 45kcal calories per 100g, Oat Milk earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Energy Drinks and Cranberry Juice for calories, ranking 21 of 40. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

45kcalCalories
0.7gProtein
2.3gFat
5.4gCarbs
0.5gFiber

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Orange Juice

Limited

At 47kcal calories per 100g, Orange Juice falls into the Limited category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Apple Cider and Apple Juice for calories, ranking 24 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

47kcalCalories
0.7gProtein
0.2gFat
11gCarbs
0.3gFiber

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Sweetened Electrolyte Drinks

Limited

With 27kcal calories per 100g, Sweetened Electrolyte Drinks earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. This means it is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Within this category, it falls between Hard Seltzer and Lemon Water for calories, ranking 15 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

27kcalCalories
0gProtein
0.2gFat
6.2gCarbs
0gFiber

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Unsweetened Electrolyte Tablets

Limited

With 84kcal calories per 100g, Unsweetened Electrolyte Tablets earns a Limited classification on Alkaline. It is roughly neutral PRAL or fits at small portions. Beyond the primary classification, unsweetened electrolyte tablets also provides 26000mg sodium per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Hot Chocolate and Wine for calories, ranking 29 of 40. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

84kcalCalories
1gProtein
0.1gFat
19.8gCarbs
0gFiber

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Not Allowed Beverages (14)

Apple Cider

Not Allowed

Apple Cider is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 46kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Within this category, it falls between Cranberry Juice and Orange Juice for calories, ranking 23 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

46kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0.1gFat
11.3gCarbs
0.2gFiber

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Beer

Not Allowed

Beer is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 238kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It also contains 14.2g protein and 18.8g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Whiskey at 231kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

238kcalCalories
14.2gProtein
18.8gFat
2.1gCarbs
0gFiber

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Diet Soda

Not Allowed

Diet Soda is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 0kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Among the 40 items in this category, diet soda sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Green Tea at 1kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

0kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Energy Drinks

Not Allowed

Energy Drinks is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 43kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Within this category, it falls between Coconut Water and Oat Milk for calories, ranking 20 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

43kcalCalories
0.5gProtein
0gFat
10.2gCarbs
0gFiber

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Half and Half

Not Allowed

Half and Half is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 131kcal calories per 100g. The classification reflects that it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Nutritionally, it also delivers 11.5g fat per serving. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Wine at 85kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

131kcalCalories
3.1gProtein
11.5gFat
4.3gCarbs
0gFiber

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Hard Seltzer

Not Allowed

At 24kcal calories per 100g, Hard Seltzer falls into the Not Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Within this category, it falls between Flavored Water and Sweetened Electrolyte Drinks for calories, ranking 14 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

24kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0gFat
0.6gCarbs
0gFiber

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Kefir

Not Allowed

At 62kcal calories per 100g, Kefir falls into the Not Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Within this category, it falls between Chai Tea and Hot Chocolate for calories, ranking 27 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

62kcalCalories
3.4gProtein
0.9gFat
10.2gCarbs
0gFiber

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Kombucha (Hard)

Not Allowed

Kombucha (Hard) is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 394kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Matcha at 324kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

394kcalCalories
0gProtein
0.2gFat
98gCarbs
0gFiber

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Lactose-Free Milk

Not Allowed

At 167kcal calories per 100g, Lactose-Free Milk falls into the Not Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Half and Half at 131kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

167kcalCalories
4.3gProtein
1gFat
37.7gCarbs
0gFiber

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Rum

Not Allowed

Rum is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 231kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Lactose-Free Milk at 167kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

231kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Tequila

Not Allowed

With 231kcal calories per 100g, Tequila earns a Not Allowed classification on Alkaline. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Rum at 231kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

231kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Vodka

Not Allowed

With 231kcal calories per 100g, Vodka earns a Not Allowed classification on Alkaline. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Tequila at 231kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

231kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Whiskey

Not Allowed

Whiskey is classified as Not Allowed on Alkaline, with 231kcal calories per 100g. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Vodka at 231kcal.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

231kcalCalories
0gProtein
0gFat
0gCarbs
0gFiber

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Wine

Not Allowed

At 85kcal calories per 100g, Wine falls into the Not Allowed category under Alkaline guidelines. This means it is acid-forming after metabolism — typically animal protein, hard cheese, or refined grain. Within this category, it falls between Unsweetened Electrolyte Tablets and Half and Half for calories, ranking 30 of 40.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

85kcalCalories
0.1gProtein
0gFat
2.6gCarbs
0gFiber

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