When food enters your stomach, it immediately starts to get digested by hydrochloric acid. If this substance isn't present at high enough levels, though, normal digestion can't occur.
Chronic low stomach acid is known as hypochlorhydria. This condition has massive detrimental effects on your digestive process. It can also leave you with an upset stomach every time you eat, contribute to nutrient deficiencies, and even increase your risk for certain infections.
Thankfully, there are ways to treat low stomach acid naturally. Read on to learn why your gastric acid levels might be too low and how you can fix the problem.
Reasons for Low Stomach Acid
The two most common reasons for hypochlorhydria are high levels of stress and an unbalanced, high-sugar diet. You might also be eating too fast, not getting enough zinc, or eating foods you're sensitive or allergic to.
Low stomach acid can also be a side effect of prescription and over-the-counter antacid medications. One of the most popular, Zantac, has been linked to certain types of cancer. If you think Zantac could be related to your low stomach acid or cancer, you might want to find more information about the currently pending lawsuits.
Finally, you might have naturally low gastric acid as a result of chronic illness, an infection, or just getting older. No matter the reason, the following holistic remedies might help.
1. Chew More Slowly
Did you know that digestion starts in your mouth, not in your stomach? Your saliva is full of digestive enzymes that start to break down food molecules as you chew.
When you don't take time to thoroughly chew each bite of food, you don't give your saliva a chance to do its job. Not only will chewing slowly give your body enough time to stimulate digestive enzymes and increase HCL production, but you'll also swallow less air and avoid post-meal gas.
2. Add Probiotic Foods to Your Diet
Probiotic foods are full of healthy bacteria that promote digestion. They reduce inflammation and help your body fight infections, both of which you're more vulnerable to if you have low stomach acid.
You can add probiotics to your diet by eating fermented foods like pickled vegetables, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Probiotics are also found in raw apple cider vinegar, kefir, and kombucha drinks.
3. Take Supplements
If changing your diet and chewing slowly isn't enough, consider taking supplements. Both zinc tablets and HCL tablets can help your body naturally produce more gastric acid.
If you're suffering from stomach upset and nausea, try using ginger and peppermint tablets, tea, or essential oils. These plants are well-known for reducing indigestion.
Balanced Acid Levels Are Key to Stomach Health
Low stomach acid can be a real pain, but you don't have to let it rule your life. Give these natural remedies a try, and if you're still having symptoms, talk to your doctor to learn about other treatments.
For more health and wellness advice, natural remedies, and holistic treatments, make sure to visit the other articles on our site.
