Indigestion, Heartburn & Low Stomach Acidity
Indigestion can include bloating, gas, belching, stomach discomfort and poor digestion. Heartburn is usually experienced as a burning sensation caused by stomach contents moving back into the oesophagus.
Interestingly, low stomach acid can sometimes contribute to heartburn and indigestion. Adequate stomach acid is also important for digesting protein and helping protect the digestive tract from unwanted bacteria and other microorganisms.
Betaine HCl may be helpful for people with confirmed low stomach acid, but it should only be used with guidance from a healthcare practitioner, particularly if there is a history of ulcers or other stomach problems.
Antacids can provide short-term relief, but prolonged use may affect the absorption of certain nutrients and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle and dietary habits may also help. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol where these trigger symptoms, identifying food intolerances, eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly can all support better digestion.
If indigestion or heartburn is persistent or severe, it is important to seek medical advice to identify the underlying cause.
Symptoms
Symptoms of low stomach acid are related to impaired digestion, increased susceptibility to infection, and reduced absorption of nutrients from food. Symptoms may include:
- bloating
- burping
- upset stomach
- nausea when taking vitamins and supplements
- heartburn
- diarrhea
- gas
- desire to eat when not hungry
- indigestion
- hair loss
- undigested food in stool
- weak, brittle fingernails
- fatigue
- GI infections
- iron deficiency anemia
- deficiencies of other minerals, such as vitamin B-12, calcium, and magnesium
- protein deficiency
Solutions:
Digestive enzymes play a key role in breaking down the food you eat. These proteins speed up chemical reactions that turn nutrients into substances that your digestive tract can absorb.
Your saliva has digestive enzymes in it. Some of your organs, including your pancreas, gallbladder, and liver, also release them. Cells on the surface of your intestines also store them
Essential oil – oregano The primary chemical component of Oregano is carvacol, a phenol, which makes it one of the most versatile and powerful essential oils. Peppermint not only reduces the burning from acid reflux but also encourages production of digestive juices. Order from www.mydoterra.com/marieridout
Herbs that may be helpful: Three major categories of herbs are used to treat indigestion when no cause for the condition is known: carminatives, bitters, and demulcents (soothing herbs). These can be bought in the form of herbal teas and drunk with your meal
My Mind & BodyHealing series – IBS https://naturalhealthsolutions.info/?p=2107