Stomach Acid Guide

Are gas, bloating, and tummy troubles the norm for you? If so, stomach acid imbalance could be the culprit.

If you're someone who reaches for Tums or PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) every time you experience heartburn or indigestion, you're not alone. And you're probably making the problem worse!

These medications are designed to reduce stomach acid and provide quick relief, but what if I told you that your symptoms might actually be and are more likely caused by low stomach acid?

It may sound counterintuitive, but consistently lowering your stomach acid can actually make digestive problems worse in the long run. While these medications can offer short-term relief, relying on them long-term comes with potential risks, including nutrient malabsorption and an increased chance of gut infections.

 Now let's cover how stomach acid gets out of whack, and what you can do to get yours in balance.

The Hidden Risks of Chronic PPI and Tums Use

While PPIs and Tums can provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms, long-term reliance on these medications can create new health challenges. One major risk is nutrient malabsorption. Stomach acid plays a critical role in breaking down food and absorbing essential nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, calcium, and iron. When acid levels are consistently reduced, the body can struggle to absorb these nutrients, potentially leading to deficiencies over time. This can cause issues such as fatigue, bone fractures, and weakened immunity.

Another overlooked consequence is the increased risk of infections. Stomach acid acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria and pathogens. By reducing stomach acid, chronic use of PPIs can make you more vulnerable to gut infections, including Clostridium difficile (C. diff), which can lead to serious digestive issues.

Furthermore, chronic suppression of stomach acid can disrupt your digestive balance, leading to a condition called "rebound acid hypersecretion." This means when you stop taking PPIs, your stomach may produce even more acid than before, making symptoms worse.

In short, while these medications may offer quick relief, it’s important to be aware of the long-term risks associated with their use. Identifying the root cause of your digestive issues, like low stomach acid, may be a better approach for your overall health.