Balancing Your Gut: can reduced stomach acidity cause many health problems?
By Elly
Introduction
In today's fast-paced world, many of us experience digestive discomforts, allergies, and even serious health issues. Surprisingly, the root cause of many of these problems might lie in the stomach – specifically, the level of stomach acidity. In this article, we'll explore the profound impact of reduced stomach acidity on our health and well-being and discuss dietary and nutritional suggestions to address this issue.
Understanding Stomach Acidity
Insufficient stomach acid can manifest in various ways, from digestive discomforts like flatulence, bloating, and heartburn to more severe conditions such as allergies, psoriasis, and malabsorption. If you've noticed recurring rashes, unexplained weight changes, or undigested food in your stool, it's possible that your stomach isn't producing enough acid.
Several factors contribute to reduced stomach acidity. Antibiotics, antacids, alcohol, and smoking can play a role. Moreover, our diet and lifestyle choices matter significantly. Highly processed, sugary, and fast foods can harm the digestive tract, while vegetarian and vegan diets, rich in grains, require fewer digestive juices. Stress, a common modern-day companion, can also hinder acid secretion due to hormonal factors.
The Impact on the Body
Stomach acid plays a pivotal role in the initial digestion of proteins and fats and sterilizes food by maintaining a low pH. When stomach acid is insufficient, issues arise. Protein digestion becomes problematic, leading to feelings of fullness, bloating, and gas. Undigested food in the gastrointestinal tract can cause inflammation, damaging the mucosa and leading to a leaky gut.
Furthermore, low acidity impairs the production of pepsin, an enzyme crucial for protein digestion. Undigested proteins can exacerbate allergies and autoimmune diseases. A higher pH in gastric juices can promote the growth of harmful bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, linked to gastric and duodenal ulcers.
Fat absorption is also hindered, leading to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including zinc, essential for hydrochloric acid production. This deficiency affects the immune system and overall health. Iron absorption is compromised, potentially causing anemia, which impacts B vitamin metabolism, including B6 and B12.
Vitamin B12, vital for the nervous and circulatory systems, requires hydrochloric acid for absorption. Deficiencies in B12, B6, or folic acid can elevate homocysteine levels, contributing to atherosclerosis.
Differentiating Hypoacidity from Hyperacidity
Symptoms of reduced stomach acidity are often mistaken for hyperacidity, leading to the use of antacids. These drugs can shut down the stomach's digestive functions, impairing calcium absorption and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To determine if hypoacidity is an issue, consider a Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis which you can order with Elly, which reveals mineral levels related to low stomach acidity. Kinesiology muscle test can also help to determine whether you have a low Stomach Acid. You can also conduct a simple home test using baking soda. You can also carry out a test using baking soda – dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in 3/4 glass of water and drink it. It’s important that the test is carried out on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning. Hydrochloric acid in the stomach will react with the sodium bicarbonate and immediately produce carbon dioxide, which will make you burp. The conclusion: the longer you have to wait for the burp, the less hydrochloric acid you have in your stomach. However, consult a healthcare professional for confirmation.
Treating hypoacidity involves two main approaches: ensuring proper hydration and acidifying the stomach. Adequate hydration is crucial as the stomach mucosa is primarily composed of water. For stomach acidification, consider the following allies:
Vitamin C: Preferably a Natural Vitamin C (not an Ascorbic Acid). Taken during meals, it promotes iron absorption, aiding in stomach acid production.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): How to use: 1 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 1/2 cup of water (children: 1 teaspoon in 1/2 cup of water), drink 3x a day 15 minutes before meals. Several weeks of this treatment will help stabilise the functions of the stomach. Do not use spirit vinegar for this – it’s harmful to the stomach and kidneys!
Lemon Juice: Use instead of ACV. 1/2 a cup of undiluted lemon juice 3x a day before meals.
Salt: Use unrefined, non-iodized salt. I like Celtic Salt. Consume a pinch before or after meals or dissolve it in water.
Ayurvedic Potion: Blend one lemon, a 2-3cm piece of ginger and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and consume 1/2 teaspoon of this mixture 15 minutes before meals
Fermented Cabbage or Cucumber Juice: These promote stomach acid production.
Swedish Digestive Bitters drops: These stimulate hydrochloric acid secretion and help Gall Bladder to digest fats
Spices and Herbs: peppermint, ginger, cloves, fenugreek, aniseed, basil, savory, caraway, coriander and nigela sativa (Black Cumin Seed)
Wormwood: drink wormwood mixed with water every morning for 10 days. Don’t use it in children or long-term, as it negatively affects vision.
Hydrochloric Acid Supplements: (betaine hydrochloride, betaine HCL and/or pepsin) – capsules should be taken immediately after you begin eating. If you take too much betaine, you may feel warmth in your stomach. If this occurs, reduce the dose. Betaine supplementation should always be consulted with a doctor due to possible contraindications.
Dietary Adjustments
First and foremost, it's a good idea to steer clear of foods that demand a hefty amount of gastric juices for digestion. This group includes items like greasy, deep-fried, and heavy dishes with substantial animal protein content. Opt for lighter meats such as veal, poultry, and fish instead. It's best to prepare your food by poaching or braising it, finely chopping it, or even turning it into a paste or liquid. This approach eases the workload on your stomach. Additionally, be mindful of your sugar intake, as it can significantly hinder the production of digestive juices.
Now, onto the second crucial aspect – your eating habits. Take your time to thoroughly chew each bite, ensuring you savor the flavors. Maintain regular meal times and avoid overindulging. Smaller, more frequent portions, ideally five times a day, work well. When it comes to beverages, try to drink between meals and steer clear of drinking during, just before, or immediately after eating to prevent diluting your gastric juices. Keep in mind that your stomach tends to appreciate sour, salty, and bitter flavors.
Conclusion
Stomach acidity is a critical factor in maintaining overall health. Addressing hypoacidity can help alleviate numerous health issues and their associated symptoms. By understanding the importance of stomach acid and making appropriate dietary and nutritional adjustments, you can take a significant step toward improved well-being. Remember, a healthy stomach sets the foundation for a healthy life.
And don't forget:
the stomach likes sour, salty and bitter flavours
avoid sugar and fatty food
eat small portions regularly and chew every bite thoroughly
don’t drink during, just before and immediately after meals
Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health-related concerns.
