Stomach Acid & GI Health: What You Need To Know

Stomach acid - if those words alone make your chest burn or leave a sour taste in your mouth, you’re not alone! While many of us attribute symptoms of acid reflux to excess stomach acid, the truth might surprise you.

So what is stomach acid, and do we actually need it?

The stomach’s environment is meant to be acidic - hydrochloric acid helps destroy bad bacteria before it reaches the small intestine, and it jumpstarts the process of digestion and nutrient absorption. It typically only becomes a problem when it doesn’t stay where it belongs. As we age, our body’s ability to produce stomach acid declines, and many lifestyle factors can contribute to reduced stomach acid, which - believe it or not - is the most common cause of acid reflux and GERD!

Watch the video below to learn more about stomach acid and how to prevent and treat acid reflux.

Remember, there are many steps you can take to encourage healthy stomach acid balance:

1. Identify and avoid trigger foods (these may include chocolate, caffeine, fried foods, spicy foods, acidic foods, processed foods, alcohol, and products containing nicotine).

2. Eat mindfully - chew your food thoroughly, take your time, and don’t overeat.

3. Avoiding eating within 3 hours of bedtime if your reflux kicks in at night.

4. Drink plenty of water. Hydration is key!

5. Use stress reduction techniques, such as breathing exercises, meditation, humming, and gargling.

6. Talk to your provider about adding a magnesium, prebiotic, and/or probiotic supplement to your regimen.

If you’re experiencing acid reflux and would like help getting to the bottom of it, we’d be happy to schedule a discovery call with you. During this call, we can discuss your symptoms in more detail and come up with a plan tailored specifically for you.

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DISCLAIMER: The information in this email is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional