Stomach acid, commonly known as gastric acid, is required for the digestion process. Stomach acid is good for the body. Increasing stomach acid may lessen and, in many cases, cure disorders such as acid reflux or heartburn and alleviate common ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and leaky gut colitis, and other gastrointestinal diseases. The mainstream medical establishment has taught us that reflux and heartburn get caused by too much stomach acid, which is incorrect. So how to increase stomach acid?

Low stomach acid, also known as Hypochlorhydria, can cause unpleasant side effects and leave the body prone to infections. There are, however, several things a person can attempt to boost their stomach acid.

Stomach Acid Function

Stomach acid, often known as hydrochloric acid, is an integral part of the digestive process. The acid serves as our first line of defense against infections, germs, parasites, and other microorganisms. It also aids in the correct digestion of our food. When the body is relaxed, hydrochloric acid gets released into the stomach, where it converts lipids to fatty acids, carbs to glucose, and proteins to amino acids. This breakdown is vital so that the body can utilize the nutrients in our diet.

But you’re not sure if it is good or bad to have low stomach acid, whether you go for how to increase stomach acid or decrease stomach acid? But no need to worry anymore because this article will guide you.

Hypochlorhydria

Hypochlorhydria occurs when your stomach does not produce enough hydrochloric acid, which aids in digestion. It also aids your body’s use of nutrients such as protein and protects it from germs and viruses. ‌ Low amounts of hydrochloric acid might impair your stomach’s capacity to digest and absorb proteins. It can also harm your intestines, causing digestive problems and infections.

What Causes Low Stomach Acid?

Before going towards how to increase stomach acid, let us see the causes of its diminution. A variety of reasons can cause low stomach acid. Stress and a bad diet are two of the most prevalent causes that can immediately impact your digestive function. Other variables that might contribute to low stomach acid include eating too rapidly, excessive sugar consumption, zinc insufficiency, aging, antacid medication, and prescription medications, food allergies or sensitivities, infection, chronic disease

Symptoms of Low Stomach Acid

It’s easy to get mixed up between the symptoms of low stomach acid and those of high stomach acid. Many of them appear to be the same and overlap. As a result, figuring out if your stomach acid is too high or too low might be difficult. Here are a few instances of symptoms caused by gastric acid:

1. Gas and Bloating After Eating: This is typically an indication that your digestive system isn’t working correctly. It might also suggest increased bacterial development.
2. Trouble in Digesting Meat: Meat and other protein meals are difficult to digest for low stomach acid levels. As a result, after eating meat, you may feel fatigued, confused, or nauseated.
3. Heartburn: Stomach acid levels are low when food gets not effectively broken down. As a result, gas production increases, giving the sensation of heartburn.
4. Skin Problems Such as Acne: A healthy stomach aids in the health of your skin. Unfortunately, insufficient stomach acid promotes excessive bacteria development, which can result in skin problems.
5. Food Allergies and Intolerances: Your stomach acid levels may be to fault if you are allergic or intolerant to certain foods.

How To Increase Stomach Acid? – Foods That Prevent Acid Reflux                      

The treatment of low stomach acid is dependent on the underlying reason. Now, here are some natural ways to answer “How To Increase Stomach Acid.” If you desire reduced bloating and indigestion, as well as more excellent nutrient absorption and general wellness, keep reading.

Chew your food

Thoroughly chewing your food is a basic but sometimes ignored tip for improving stomach acid levels and digestion. Digestion starts in your mouth. Speeding through your meals might have an impact on how your body digests them. To activate your digestive enzymes, chew your meal and take smaller pieces, which can reduce symptoms of low stomach acid and help you maintain a suitable pH in your stomach.

Drink lemon water or apple cider

When taken in modest amounts, lemon water, and apple cider might have an alkalizing effect. To help neutralize the acid in your stomach, combine a tiny bit of lemon juice or apple cider with water, which stimulates the body’s synthesis of HCI, which causes it to generate more stomach acid while soothing the sensations you’re feeling.

Avoid water with the meal

Drinking water after and during your meals will dilute your stomach juices. Drink mineral-rich homemade bone broth instead of water. It contains gelatine, which stimulates digestive fluids and aids in protein digestion.

Food recommended

Fibrous meals help you feel full, which reduces your chances of overeating, leading to heartburn. So, fill up on fiber-rich meals like these:

• Oatmeal, couscous, and brown rice are examples of whole grains.
• Sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets are examples of root vegetables.
• Asparagus, broccoli, and green beans are examples of green veggies.

Those with a higher pH are alkaline and can assist in balancing out strong stomach acid. Eat bland foods like Celery, Cucumber, Lettuce, Watermelon, Broth-based soups, and Herbal tea. Cut down on processed foods like pizza burgers etc.

Find calm

Digestion starts in the brain. To effectively accept and digest food, your body must be psychologically prepared. Chronic stress can reduce stomach acid production. Stress management is critical for decreasing discomfort and allowing your body to concentrate on digestion and nutrient absorption.

Final Thoughts

If none of the above tips works out and you’re still concerned about your digestive system or symptoms, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. If left untreated, Hypochlorhydria can lead to significant health issues. Your doctor can help you determine whether you have Hypochlorhydria and how to treat or manage the underlying cause.

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