Stomach Acid - Why It's Crucial for Your Health

Most of us have experienced heartburn at least once: that burning sensation in the throat, sour taste in the mouth, heaviness after a meal. We often reach for “antacids” that neutralise stomach acid. The relief is quick, but... are we actually going in the right direction?

What Does "Acidified Stomach" Really Mean?

Although this term doesn't officially exist in medicine, it's often used for simplicity. What it refers to is something very important: the proper pH of the stomach, which should be between 1.5 and 3.5 - a very acidic environment. This acidity is essential for:

• proper protein digestion

• absorption of minerals (like zinc and magnesium) and vitamins (especially B12)

• activation of digestive enzymes

• maintaining the barrier between the stomach and esophagus

Where’s the Real Problem?

When we feel heartburn, we often blame excess acid. In reality, the most common cause is low stomach acid - that is, too high a pH, not too low.

Why?

Because with low acidity, the lower esophageal sphincter (the valve between the stomach and esophagus) doesn't work properly and becomes loose. Acidic contents then reflux into the esophagus and cause burning. And instead of supporting acid production, we suppress it even more.

What Are the Consequences of Low Stomach Acidity?

An under-acidified stomach creates real problems beyond digestion. It can lead to:

• deficiency in vitamin B12, magnesium, and zinc (which weakens immunity, affects thyroid function, and increases autoimmune disease risk)

• poor protein absorption and development of “leaky gut”

• inflammation (which may manifest as asthma, Hashimoto’s, eczema, or rheumatoid arthritis)

• elevated homocysteine levels (a risk factor for atherosclerosis and heart disease)

• overall weakening of the body and reduced ability to regenerate

Proton Pump Inhibitors - What's the Deal?

Popular heartburn medications (like omeprazole or pantoprazole) are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Short-term use under medical supervision can be justified. But the real issue is regular or self-prescribed use e.g., after seeing an ad or “just in case,” since they’re available even at gas stations.

Long-term use of PPIs can severely reduce stomach acid production, leading to chronic health issues that we often don’t even associate with the stomach.

Stomach Acid vs. “Body Acidity” - Don’t Confuse the Two

People often talk about the body being “acidic.” That’s completely different from stomach acidity. The stomach must be highly acidic - it’s its natural environment. The body as a whole should be slightly alkaline. Testing saliva or urine pH might offer clues here, but don’t mix the two ideas.

So, What Should You Do?

If you suffer from heartburn, instead of suppressing the symptom, look for the root cause. It's very likely your stomach needs more acid, not less. Apple cider vinegar before meals, bitter herbs, or betaine HCl with pepsin (under supervision) may help.

Supporting proper digestion is the foundation for treating many chronic illnesses. When we start with the stomach, we impact the whole body.

Source: Hidden Therapies: What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You, Jerzy Zięba