Stomach
The acid factory. The stomach is far more than a food storage tank—it produces hydrochloric acid and enzymes essential for protein digestion, mineral absorption, and defense against pathogens. Low stomach acid is often the real problem behind "acid" symptoms.
Stomach Functions
Protein Digestion
Acid activates pepsin. Breaks down proteins to peptides. Essential first step.
Pathogen Defense
Acid kills bacteria, parasites. First line of defense. Low acid = infection risk.
Mineral Ionization
Acid needed to absorb iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium. Low acid = deficiencies.
B12 Liberation
Acid releases B12 from food. Intrinsic factor binds it. Low acid = B12 deficiency.
Signals Downstream
Triggers pancreas, gallbladder release. Acid signals to small intestine.
Mechanical Churning
Mixes food with acid/enzymes. Creates chyme. Regulates delivery to intestine.
Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria)
Symptoms
- Bloating after meals: Food sits too long
- Reflux/heartburn: Yes, low acid causes this!
- Belching: Food ferments
- Undigested food in stool: Poor breakdown
Causes
- Aging: Acid declines with age
- H. pylori: Suppresses acid production
- Stress: Chronic stress reduces acid
- PPIs: Proton pump inhibitors block acid
The Acid Paradox
Common Assumption
Heartburn = too much acid. Solution: acid blockers. But this often worsens the root cause.
The Reality
Low acid → food ferments → gas pressure → pushes what little acid there is upward → reflux symptoms.
Why PPIs "Work"
They remove all acid. Symptoms improve. But digestion worsens. Deficiencies develop over time.
Better Approach
Test if low acid is the issue. Support acid production. Address H. pylori if present. Fix the LES.
H. Pylori Connection
What It Is
Bacteria that lives in stomach lining. Infects ~50% of world population. Often asymptomatic.
Effects
Suppresses stomach acid. Causes gastritis. Ulcer risk. Linked to stomach cancer.
Testing
Breath test, stool antigen, or endoscopy. Stop PPIs before testing for accuracy.
Triple Therapy
PPI + 2 antibiotics. Standard treatment. Resistance increasing. Retest after treatment.
Natural Support
Mastic gum, bismuth, probiotics studied. Broccoli sprouts (sulforaphane). May need antibiotics.
Post-Treatment
Rebuild gut flora. Support acid recovery. Zinc, B vitamins for stomach lining.
Supporting Stomach Function
Betaine HCl
Supplemental acid. Take with protein meals. Start low, increase gradually. Not for ulcers.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Diluted before meals. Mild acid support. May help some. Protect tooth enamel.
Digestive Bitters
Stimulate natural acid production. Traditional approach. Gentian, dandelion root.
Zinc
Required to make stomach acid. Deficiency common. Zinc carnosine for stomach lining.
B Vitamins
B1, B6 support acid production. Deficiency reduces acid. Vicious cycle.
Chew Thoroughly
Digestion starts in mouth. Reduces stomach workload. Improves nutrient absorption.