Why your stomach needs more acid

"My acid reflux is so bad, I burp and melt my lipstick!" - Joan Rivers.

Could your acid reflux medication be doing more harm than good? Here’s why blocking stomach acid might be one of the biggest health mistakes of our time.

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Stomach acid: critical for your health.

Most people take acid-blocking medications without understanding how vital stomach acid is for overall health. Doctors frequently prescribe these drugs too quickly, potentially causing more harm than good. This widespread medical practice has created a dangerous misunderstanding about the critical role of stomach acid in our body's complex digestive system.

These medications were initially intended for rare, specific conditions but have become a catch-all solution for digestive discomfort.

Presently, it is estimated that over 27% of Americans take antacids and that over 15% of the USA population (increasing with age) take PPIs. For context, PPIs are the most powerful acid-suppressing medications - a single pill often removes almost all of the stomach's acid for the rest of the day - but simultaneously are sold over the counter, allowing many to self-medicate with them. Primarily, people treat acid reflux this way.

The hidden dangers of acid blickers.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and other acid-blocking medications can create serious health problems:

• Increased risk of dangerous infections like pneumonia

• Reduced absorption of critical nutrients

• Higher chances of liver disease

• Potential link to dementia

• Possible increased risk of stomach cancer

• Weakening of overall digestive health

• 19% higher overall risk of mortality

• 28% increase in major cardiac events

• 37% higher risk of community-acquired pneumonia

• This study found a 74% increase in severe kidney disease, resulting in a 142% increased risk of death for those patients)

• Increase the risk of stomach cancer by 80%

• Significant disruption of gut microbiome balance

• The largest review that has been done so far of PPIs and COVID-19 found PPIs increased a COVID patient's risk of dying by 77%.

The surprising role of stomach acid.

Stomach acid isn't just about digestion. It plays several crucial roles in your body:

• Killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites

• Breaking down proteins into usable nutrients

• Helping your body absorb essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, calcium, and iron

• Enabling absorption of critical vitamins, especially B12

• Regulating digestive system functions

• Activating important digestive enzymes

• Protecting the body from potential infections

Historically, doctors have overlooked these critical functions, treating stomach acid as a mere digestive inconvenience rather than a vital biological mechanism.

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Why acid reflux really happens.

Surprisingly, acid reflux often occurs because of LOW stomach acid, not excess acid. As we age, our stomach acid naturally decreases. This reduction can trigger:

• Digestive complications

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Weakened immune response

• Increased susceptibility to autoimmune conditions

• Difficulty breaking down proteins

• Potential food sensitivities

• Chronic inflammation

Root causes of declining stomach acid.

Several factors contribute to reduced stomach acid production:

• The natural aging process (especially after age 60)

• Poor dietary habits

• Lack of unprocessed salt in modern diets

• Autoimmune conditions attacking acid-producing cells

• H. Pylori infections

• Mitochondrial dysfunction

• Continuous use of acid-blocking medications

• Chronic stress

• Processed food consumption

Different health conditions linked to low stomach acid.

Research suggests low stomach acid may contribute to:

• Asthma

• Skin diseases like eczema and dermatitis

• Depression

• Gallbladder disease

• Migraine headaches

• Osteoporosis

• Accelerated aging

• Macular degeneration

• Hay fever

• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

• Chronic fatigue

• Autoimmune disorders

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How the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) works.

The stomach's opening is pH-sensitive and only closes when sufficient acidity is present. Without enough acid, this muscle stays open, causing reflux. Certain foods and medications can also weaken the LES, including:

• Fats

• Chocolate

• Coffee

• Caffeinated drinks

• Mints

• Sugar

• Onions

• Some alcoholic beverages

• Muscle-relaxing medications

• Certain blood pressure drugs

Natural approaches to improve stomach health.

Instead of relying solely on medications, consider:

• Eating less processed food

• Identifying and removing trigger foods

• Supporting digestive function

• Addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies

• Working with a healthcare professional who understands functional medicine

• Potentially using digestive enzyme supplements

• Considering hydrochloric acid supplementation under professional guidance

• Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet

• Managing stress levels

• Regular exercise

Stomach acid is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. Before taking acid blockers, understand their potential risks and explore alternative solutions with a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

Always consult a healthcare professional before significantly changing your medical treatment or diet.

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Warm regards,
Kos and Helen.