Combatting Acid Reflux
Many adults suffer from the discomfort of acid reflux, particularly during the night. As we age, we produce less of the hydrochloric acid (HCl) needed to initiate the breakdown of protein and minerals, and, in particular, meat, like steak and hamburger. Many believe the problem is due to an overabundance of acidity. Actually the problem is caused by too little stomach acid.
Other foods that can cause heartburn include:
- cheese or pepperoni and cheese pizza
- processed meat
- dairy, like yogurt and sour cream
- soy
- coffee
- deli meat, like corn beef or pastrami
- processed snack food, like potato chips and corn chips
- fast food from the local drive-in
- food high in sugar
- deep fried food, like chicken nuggets, potato fries, and fish sticks
The food that is not adequately digested remains in the gut, bathed in the small amount of acid that is secreted. As it moves up from the stomach to our esophagus, it causes burping, belching, and bloating. When we lie down, we experience a burning sensation, called heartburn.
Acid Blockers, medication recomended for acid refux, will lower our HCl levels even more, exacerbating the problem. It causes the food to stay in the stomach for longer periods of time, increasing fermentation and the production of gas and bloating. Proper chewing, digestive enzymes with HCl and Bile, taken at the end of meals, and food combining, like eating fruit alone, at least 20 minutes before a meal, can help solve this issue.
A contraindication to supplementing hydrchloric acid is an existing ulcer. This would result in a burning sensation shortly after taking the product. Instead, a vegetable digestive enzyme woul be recommended.
For additional information go to NPP Webinars and check out their educational webinars on digestion and the blog on Digestion, Immune System and the Microbiome.
