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Alyssa Abrahamson

Digestive Issues? 9 Signs You Have Hypochlorhydria

Updated: Apr 26, 2022

Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, or gas after meals? Digestive symptoms could be a sign you have hypochlorhydria, a condition where your stomach doesn't produce enough hydrochloric acid (HCL) aka stomach acid.


HCL is needed to kill harmful bacteria and parasites found in food, and provides the high acidity needed to break down, digest, and absorb the proteins and minerals into your body.


You know the saying, "you are what you eat"? It should be, "you are what you digest and absorb!"


Fact: low stomach acid causes more digestive problems than too much stomach acid.


That might be hard to believe, especially with all the ballyhoo of antacids, acid-blockers, and PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) for heartburn, acid reflux, GERD relief available. But, every time you take these medications you are actually contributing more to the problem.


If people with persistent digestive symptoms actually had their stomach acid levels tested, it would be extremely rare for the results to show too much stomach acid.


Signs of hypochlorhydria include:

  1. Heartburn and indigestion

  2. Trouble digesting meat, and/or a loss of taste for meat

  3. Gas, burping, and bloating after eating

  4. Food allergies and intolerances

  5. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including iron deficiency

  6. Skin problems such as acne eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea

  7. Undigested food in stools

  8. Brittle nails and hair

  9. Feel like skipping breakfast (and you do!)

Because hypochlorhydria’s direct impact on digestion, and because 70-80% of our immune system is housed in our gut (part of our digestive system), hypochlorhydria has been associated with chronic health issues including:

  • Allergies

  • Asthma

  • Thyroid issues

  • Skin issues such as acne, psoriasis, eczema

  • Gastritis

  • Autoimmune conditions

  • Osteoporosis

  • Pernicious anemia

  • Lupus

Common causes of hypochlorhydria:

  • High stress levels

  • High sugar diet

  • Vitamin deficiency, specifically zinc and B vitamins. These deficiencies may be caused by poor diet or nutrient loss from stress, smoking, alcohol, or leaky gut

  • Overuse of antacids and other medications for digestive issues

  • H. Pylori

  • Stomach surgery such as gastric bypass

  • Aging, especially those over 65

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to naturally help your body produce enough HCL to aid digestion.


3 mindful mealtime tips to improve stomach acid:

  • Eat mindfully at the table (no scrolling, no eating on the couch watching Netflix, no eating standing at the counter, and certainly no eating while driving!)

  • Chew your food thoroughly (put your fork down between bites)

  • Drink a cup of water with 1 Tbsp of raw apple cider vinegar about 15 minutes before meals

WHEN STRESS IS ON, DIGESTION IS OFF.

With increased mindfulness and when you practice ways to tap into that relaxed, parasympathetic "rest and digest" state around mealtime, you are setting yourself up for a happy tummy, better digestion, lower inflammation, and a healthier you.


If you're looking for personalized support with digestion, mindfulness, and anti-inflammatory living, let’s talk.


Email me to set up a free exploratory coaching call.


Love, Your Wellness Coach,


Alyssa


December 1, 2020


P.S. Watch the replays of “A Taste of Nourish Till You Flourish” my series of 4 Hot Topic Wellness Workshops:

  • How to Boost Immunity through Nutrition

  • Setting & Keeping Goals During Uncertainty

  • Overcoming Self-Criticism

  • Do You Have Leaky Gut? Gut Health 101

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