What is stomach acid and how can you treat too much stomach acid?

What is stomach acid and what function does it have?

Stomach acid is a strong, colorless acid produced in the lining of the stomach. The acid plays an important role in the digestive process, as it breaks down proteins and kills bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present in the food we eat. Stomach acid also helps activate enzymes that further break down food in the intestines, and creates the right pH for digestion. 

What are the symptoms of too much stomach acid?

Symptoms of too much stomach acid may include heartburn, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, stomach pain, bloating, hoarseness, coughing, and bad breath. These symptoms may be worse after eating or when lying down.

What causes too much stomach acid?

One of the most common causes of too much stomach acid is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs when stomach acid and digestive juices flow back from the stomach into the esophagus due to impaired function of the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach.

The sphincter muscle weakens with age and tobacco use. Impaired function can also be caused by a hernia, obesity, medications, and pregnancy. Other causes include stress, excessive caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.

What to do if you have too much stomach acid?

You can start by trying lifestyle changes by eating smaller meals, avoiding fatty or spicy foods, avoiding eating close to bedtime, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and avoiding stress. If these lifestyle changes don’t help, you may want to consider taking medications to reduce stomach acid, such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. Talk to your doctor about using medications to reduce stomach acid.

You can also avoid things that cause acid reflux, such as tight clothing, bending forward, foods and drinks. If you experience too much stomach acid when lying down, you can try lying with your head higher by raising the headboard or having some extra pillows. 

What is the best remedy for stomach acid?

The best remedy for stomach acid depends on the cause of the increased stomach acid. Antacids can provide quick relief from stomach acid symptoms, while H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can be used to reduce stomach acid production over time. It is best to consult a doctor to determine which treatment is best for you.

What can neutralize stomach acid?

Antacids can help neutralize excess stomach acid. These can be purchased over-the-counter at the pharmacy and often contain ingredients such as magnesium, calcium, or aluminum. However, it is important to be careful with overuse of antacids, as they can cause side effects such as constipation or diarrhea.

What should you avoid eating if you have too much stomach acid?

If you suffer from too much stomach acid, it is a good idea to avoid fatty or spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomato-based products, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and strong drinks like soda. It is also important to eat smaller meals and avoid eating close to bedtime.

Osteopathy and stomach acid

Osteopathy treats stomach acid problems and other digestive problems. Osteopathy treats connective tissue around the digestive organs as well as the blood and nervous system in the area.