That burning sensation after eating isn’t caused by too much stomach acid, as many believe. In fact, it’s often the result of too little stomach acid—a condition called hypochlorhydria.
When acid levels are too low, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t get the signal to close properly, allowing acid to splash into the esophagus.
Low stomach acid becomes more common with age, poor diet, stress, and certain conditions like atrophic gastritis. About 30 to 40% of people over 60 may have low or no acid secretion.
If left untreated, recurring acid reflux can lead to GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), which affects roughly 20% of Americans and can result in more severe complications like ulcers or esophageal cancer.
Symptoms and Misdiagnosis
Typical symptoms include heartburn, sore throat, bloating, nausea, hiccups, regurgitated acid, and pain when lying down. Traditional treatment focuses on suppressing acid with antacids or PPIs.
While these relieve symptoms, they don’t solve the underlying issue—and long-term use can cause other problems like nutrient deficiencies, infections, and kidney or liver damage.
Why Low Acid Causes Reflux
Stomach acid is essential for digesting food, killing harmful bacteria, and triggering enzyme production. It also signals the pyloric sphincter to pass digested food to the small intestine.
When acid is insufficient, food isn’t properly broken down, leading to bacterial overgrowth and gas. This pressure forces the LES open, pushing acid into the esophagus—even if only a small amount of acid is present.
Repeated episodes weaken the LES, creating a vicious cycle. Chronic low stomach acid can also cause gut inflammation, nutrient malabsorption, food intolerances, and leaky gut.
What Causes Low Stomach Acid?
Several factors contribute: aging, stress, poor diet, nutrient deficiencies (like zinc and potassium), hypothyroidism, long-term use of antacids, and infections such as H. pylori, which can also lead to B12 and iron deficiencies.
Three Steps to Increase Stomach Acid Naturally
1. Betaine HCL and Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
Start with 1–2 tablespoons of ACV diluted in water before meals. If tolerated, you can gradually add betaine HCL supplements to aid protein digestion. Adjust dosage based on comfort.
2. Get Enough Nutrients:
Ensure you’re getting key minerals like sodium, potassium, and zinc, which are essential for acid production.
3. Reduce Stress:
Stress tightens stomach muscles and heightens acid sensitivity. Managing stress can significantly ease symptoms.
Four Ways to Relieve Reflux and Heal
1. Avoid Trigger Foods:
Stay away from refined carbs, gluten, high-fat foods (even healthy ones like avocado and cheese), carbonated drinks, coffee, spicy foods, alcohol, citrus, and tomatoes.
2. Eat Soothing, Anti-Inflammatory Foods:
Include root veggies, leafy greens, lentils, oatmeal, bananas, apples, yogurt, kimchi, and lean proteins. Chamomile tea, ginger, and plenty of water also help.
3. Make Lifestyle Changes:
Sleep on your left side, elevate your head at night, eat smaller meals, and avoid eating 3 hours before bed. If overweight, losing even 10% of your weight can relieve pressure. Also, quit smoking—nicotine weakens the LES.
4. Try Natural Remedies:
Melatonin: Proven in studies to relieve GERD symptoms.
Licorice Root (DGL): Reduces inflammation and heartburn without blocking acid.
Demulcent Herbs (Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root): Form a protective layer in the esophagus and stomach, easing irritation.
By understanding that the root cause of reflux often lies in low acid rather than too much, and taking a holistic, supportive approach, long-term relief from acid reflux and heartburn becomes more achievable.