10 WARNING Signs That Your Stomach Acid Is Low
- Heartburn. Most people with stomach issues assume they have too much stomach acid, but sometimes it’s the opposite. Low stomach acid can actually cause heartburn, as the stomach doesn’t produce enough acid to break down food and prevent it from backing up into the esophagus.
- Trouble digesting meat. People with low stomach acid levels struggle to digest meat and other protein foods. This is because protein needs hydrochloric acid to break it down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body.
- Gas and bloating after eating. This is usually a sign that your digestive system is not functioning properly. Low stomach acid can lead to incomplete digestion, which can cause gas and bloating.
- Food allergies and intolerances. Low stomach acid can make it difficult to digest food properly, which can lead to food allergies and intolerances.
- Nutritional deficiencies. Low stomach acid can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food. This can lead to a variety of nutritional deficiencies, including iron, vitamin B12, and calcium.
- Skin problems such as acne. Low stomach acid can also lead to skin problems, such as acne. This is because the body needs hydrochloric acid to produce digestive enzymes that help to detoxify the body.
- Leaky gut syndrome. Leaky gut syndrome is a condition in which the lining of the gut becomes damaged, allowing toxins and bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. Low stomach acid can contribute to leaky gut syndrome.
- Undigested food in stools. This is a very clear sign that you have low stomach acid. If you can see undigested food in your stool, it means that your body wasn’t able to break it down properly.
- Hair loss in women. Low stomach acid can also lead to hair loss in women. This is because the body needs hydrochloric acid to produce digestive enzymes that help to absorb nutrients from food.
- Diarrhea or constipation. Both diarrhea and constipation can be signs of low stomach acid. Diarrhea can occur if the stomach doesn’t produce enough acid to break down food properly. Constipation can occur if the stomach produces too much acid, which can irritate the lining of the gut and slow down digestion.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Low stomach acid can be a serious condition, but it is often treatable. There are a number of natural ways to increase stomach acid, including taking HCL supplements, increasing zinc intake, taking probiotics, eating ginger, and limiting refined carbohydrate intake.
It is also important to make sure that you are eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods will help to keep your digestive system healthy and functioning properly.