Have you ever heard of stomach acid?
It’s really important for digestion, but can also be a total drag.
You may have been embarrassed by gas or looking six months pregnant after eating.
I’m sure you’ve experienced constipation, heartburn, or diarrhea at some point.
These are all signs of an imbalance. But what does this even mean? Let’s take a closer look:
The Basics
Mostly Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) and produced in your stomach, it helps neutralize harmful bacteria that can be in your contaminated foods.
Also, it helps trigger digestion. It stimulates pancreatic juices, hormones, and bile, and helps activate your digestive enzymes. These are essential for breaking down your food.
But, an imbalance can cause a lot of indigestion and lead to gut issues. This can increase your symptoms and negatively impact your health long-term.
High Stomach Acid
Contrary to popular belief, acid reflux is due to stomach acid travelling up your esophagus, not because you have too much. Same goes for heartburn and GERD.
High stomach acid (Zollinger-Eddison Syndrome) is actually quite rare.
Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria)
Most people suffer from low stomach acid. This makes it difficult to breakdown and digest your food. And it also means you’re not absorbing nutrients and may develop food sensitivities.
It can lead to a host of digestive problems, too.
Some common causes of are genetics, stress, and diet. Bacterial infections, nutrient deficiencies, and overuse of antacids are also culprits.
Signs and Symptoms
While there’s never a “one-size-fits-all” for symptoms, there are some of the more common ones:
- Heartburn
- Gas or flatulence
- Belching
- Indigestion
- Food sensitivities or allergies
- Weak nails
- Skin problems
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Feeling full after meals
What Can You Do About it?
- Canadian Bitters by St Francis Herb Farms. Bitters are herbs that help stimulate your body’s production of stomach acid. Taking them 10 minutes before your meal can help with digestion.
- Chew Your Food. Chewing helps break down your food and release enzymes that begin digestion. This also stimulates production to help digest your food. It’s a simple way to improve digestion. Aim to chew your food 10-20 times before swallowing.
- Eat Fermented Foods. Fermented foods naturally balance your stomach acid. They help balance gut bacteria, reduce inflammation, and improve gut health. Fermented foods include pickles, sauerkraut, miso, kefir, kombucha, and kimchi.
Addressing this balance is important, and also individual. Try the suggestions above, or book a nutrition package with me and I’ll help you out.
While you’re digesting today’s info, try this Blackened Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing too!
