Why Stomach Acid Is Good for You

Many people believe stomach acid is bad and should be reduced, especially if they have heartburn or symptoms actually caused by low stomach acid. But in reality, stomach acid is essential for good digestion and overall health. Suppressing it with acid-blocking medications can lead to a variety of problems.

What Stomach Acid Does

Stomach acid isn’t just for breaking down food. It performs several vital roles:

• Helps digest protein so your body can use amino acids for energy, repair, and mood-regulating neurotransmitters.

• Kills harmful bacteria, yeast, and parasites that enter with food.

• Improves absorption of key nutrients such as iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12.

• Triggers other digestive processes by signaling the pancreas & gallbladder to release enzymes & bile.

What Happens When Acid Is Too Low (Low Stomach Acid)

Low stomach acid (called hypochlorhydria) can cause or worsen:

• Bloating, indigestion, or food sitting heavily after meals

• Nutrient deficiencies (especially iron, B12, and minerals)

• Fatigue, anxiety, or low mood from low amino acids or vitamins

• Food sensitivities and autoimmune conditions

• Gut overgrowth (SIBO), bad breath, or frequent infections

• Increased risk of food poisoning or hospital infections

Why Acid-Blocking Drugs Can Be Harmful

Long-term use of acid suppressants like omeprazole (Prilosec) can:

• Double the risk of pneumonia and gut infections

• Reduce nutrient absorption, leading to bone and eye problems

• Change gut bacteria balance

• Increase risk of death in some hospitalized patients

Supporting Healthy Digestion

• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.

• Avoid drinking large amounts of liquid during meals.

• Limit processed foods and excess sugar.

• Ensure adequate minerals and B vitamins in your diet.

• Betaine hcl with Pepsin is considered a safe supplement to improve stomach acid. Take 2-4 capsules with each meal, preferably right before or during the meal.  

Shop Betaine hcl here

• Digestzymes- 1-2 capsules can also be added to meals to support the digestive system.  Shop Digestzymes here

Bottom Line

Healthy stomach acid is crucial for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune defense, and many people don’t realize their symptoms are linked to low stomach acid.

Suppressing it long-term can create more problems than it solves. Functional medicine focuses on restoring balanced digestion, not blocking it.

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