Heartburn: What's the Deal?
One of the most obvious symptoms of esophageal reflux is heartburn. This uncomfortable sensation typically occurs after eating and can last from a few minutes to several hours. It feels like a burning sensation in the pit of the stomach, and it can move up into the chest and throat.
What is Esophageal Reflux?
Esophageal reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter malfunctions, allowing the backward flow of acid, bile, and other stomach contents into the esophagus. This can result from gastritis (inflammation of the stomach itself), peptic or duodenal ulcers, a hiatal hernia, or even the chronic use of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Current Treatment Approaches
Traditional treatments often involve medications like H2 antagonists, antacids, or proton-pump inhibitors, which aim to reduce or neutralize stomach acid. However, these treatments come with concerns, especially as our stomach acid is crucial for nutrient absorption, infection defense, and overall digestive health.
Stomach Acid Fun Facts
A normal stomach acid level creates a pH of 1.5 to 2.5. However, as we age, the parietal cells in the stomach lining produce less stomach acid, known as Hydrochloric Acid (HCl). By the age of 40, many people already have suboptimal stomach pH. Shockingly, half of the people over 60 have hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), and by age 80, 80-100% of relatively healthy individuals have low stomach acid.
Do Antacids Help?
These medications block the absorption of essential nutrients like zinc, folic acid, B12, calcium, and iron, leading to fatigue, anemia, and depression. Long-term use can block all stomach acid, but your body needs acid for several crucial functions.
Contrary to popular belief, antacids may not be as helpful as they seem.
The Funny Thing About Antacids
The esophageal sphincter is stimulated to close by the release of stomach acids. Picture the esophageal sphincter as a doorway that separates the esophagus from the stomach. When there's not enough acid present—because antacids have neutralized them—the esophageal sphincter may not close properly, allowing acid to travel back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn.
Ironic, isn't it? Antacids can actually make heartburn worse.
Other Purposes of Stomach Acid
Defense Against Infections - Stomach acid is our first defense against food poisoning, H. pylori, parasites, and other infections.
Nutrient Absorption: It is necessary for the absorption of many minerals, some vitamins, and proteins
Digestive Health: Adequate HCl is essential for the breakdown of protein bonds in the stomach. Poor acid content can cause indigestion.
What Happens When We Have Low Stomach Acid?
Low stomach acid can lead to numerous problems, including:
Intestinal permeability (leaky gut)
Anemia
Fatigue
Increased allergy disorders
Depression and anxiety
Bacterial and yeast overgrowth
Common symptoms include gassiness, bloating, belching, burning, flatulence, undigested food in stool, a sense of fullness after eating, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation, and nausea after taking supplements.
If you're suffering from heartburn, low stomach acid is more likely the problem than too much stomach acid!
Prepare the Terrain
To manage esophageal reflux and promote stomach health, avoid foods that can relax the esophageal sphincter and worsen symptoms. These include fried, spicy, or fatty foods; carbonated drinks; citrus fruits; peppermint; chocolate; coffee; tea; alcohol; tomatoes; garlic; and onions. Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid lying down for at least three hours after eating. Elevating the head of your bed and sleeping on your side can also help.
Supplement Support
Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in the overall digestive process by breaking down complex food substances into simpler, absorbable components. These enzymes can increase the acidity of gastric juices, which is vital for creating an optimal environment for digestion in the stomach. These digestive enzymes are critical for maintaining optimal digestive health, preventing issues such as malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies, and ensuring that the body receives the necessary building blocks for energy, growth, and repair.
Hydrochloric Acid (HCl): In consultation with a trained Functional Medicine Professional, you may consider supplementing with HCl to support your digestive health and overall well-being. Hydrochloric acid is a crucial component of gastric juice, playing a vital role in the digestion of food, particularly proteins, and in the absorption of various essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. It is essential to approach HCl supplementation under the guidance of a qualified professional, as improper use can lead to adverse effects or exacerbate existing conditions. Your practitioner will also provide recommendations on how to integrate HCl supplements into your diet safely, monitoring your response to the supplementation and making adjustments as necessary.
Functional Medicine Has the Answers
Understanding the importance of stomach acid and how to manage esophageal reflux can significantly improve your digestive health and overall well-being. If you're experiencing symptoms, talk to Functional Medicine Practitioner Jenny Hague, for personalized advice and treatment options.
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