If you’ve ever struggled with symptoms like heartburn, bloating, or nausea, you might assume it’s from too much stomach acid. But what if the real issue is too little?
I’ve received a wave of questions recently—from my clients, and even my dad—about whether their digestive upset could be resolved by taking PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) like Prilosec or Omeprazole. These medications are commonly used for acid reflux and heartburn, and among the top 10 most prescribed drugs in the United States.
Although, what I’ve seen over and over is that they don’t always address the root cause.
Let’s break this down so you can better understand what’s happening in your gut and learn some practical steps to feel better.
Digestive Symptoms: What’s “Normal” and What’s Not?
First things first—symptoms like gas, bloating, nausea, or feeling overly full after a meal are not normal. One of my clients shared how she’s always felt the need to burp after eating. Her husband jokingly said her burps sounded like a man’s, but to me, it was a red flag of potential low stomach acid.
Low stomach acid, or hypochlorhydria, can cause:
Heartburn (yes, really!)
Bloating
Nausea
Stomach pain
Constipation or diarrhea
Acid regurgitation
The most alarming thing I hear from clients is that they've been on PPIs for years and still experience heartburn and other digestive symptoms. Or they've resolved to living with it, and accepted "this is normal".
However, long-term use of PPIs is that it can raise the risk of other health complication, including increased risk of fractures along with, mineral deficiencies (Mg, Iron, Vit B12), Cardio Vascular Disease, Dementia, chronic kidney disease, to name a few.
How to Test for Low Stomach Acid at Home
If you’re wondering whether low stomach acid could be the culprit, the good news is that there’s an easy way to test it from home using baking soda.
Here’s how:
When: Do this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
What You’ll Need: ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and 4 ounces of cold water.
Instructions: Mix the baking soda into the water and drink it all at once.
Timing: Start a timer and see how long it takes you to burp.
If it takes longer than 3-5 minutes (or you don’t burp at all), it could indicate low stomach acid. Repeat this test for three days to ensure consistent results.
Next Steps if You Suspect Low Stomach Acid
If your baking soda test results suggest low stomach acid, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to address it through nutrition and lifestyle:
Morning Lemon Water: Start your day with refreshing lemon water. In one study, 86% of subjects experienced complete relief from reflux after 14 days. How's that for food is medicine? Don’t have lemons? Try a splash of apple cider vinegar instead.
Gut-Friendly Foods: Incorporate fermented foods like kimchi, yogurt, and sauerkraut to support your microbiome, feed the good bacteria with each bite.
Eat Slower and Smaller Meals: Avoid overwhelming your digestive system with large portions. Eat slower and smaller nutritionally balanced meals. The rule is chew each bite 30 times, before swallowing. This allows oral microbiome to feed, and digestive enzymes to activate. Plus it let's you enjoy nourishing food on your plate vs scuffing it down, inviting heartburn to return.
Consult a Professional: Speak with your health care provider and discuss your symptoms, or connect with a holistic health coach for personalized nutrition and lifestyle support.
Why Long-Term PPI Use Might Not Be the Answer
While PPIs can provide short-term relief, they don’t solve the root cause of digestive issues and can lead to other health risks, such as:
Bone Fractures: Reduced calcium absorption can weaken bones over time.
Vitamin Deficiencies: Chronic PPI use may lower levels of magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12.
Ongoing Symptoms: Many people still experience digestive discomfort despite being on PPIs.
If you've been taking PPIs long term and have a family history of osteoporosis, consider discussing with your health care provider whether a DEXA scan may be suitable to asses your bone density and if coming off PPIs is appropriate next step.
It’s worth having an informed conversation with your healthcare provider about whether alternative approaches, like improving your stomach acid naturally, could be a better fit for you.
Join Me in Nourishing Your Gut Health
Take charge of your digestion and feel amazing in just 4 days. If your baking soda test results affirm what you've intuitively suspected, I’d love to coach, motivate, and support you in your wellness journey.
One of the simplest ways to reset your gut health is my famous 4-Day Nourishment Cleanse, which includes easy-to-follow steps to improve digestion naturally.
This is not just any cleanse, or the one you've tried in your 20s and felt miserable. This is a Nourishment Cleanse, full of vibrant and tasty foods, designed to satisfy and make you glowing from inside - out.
Invest in your health today; feel healthier and happier.
You Deserve to Feel Amazing
Digestive discomfort isn’t something you have to live with. By identifying the root cause and making small, intentional changes, you can restore balance and vitality to your body.
Book your free 15-minute consultation and let's create a plan tailored just for you and your lifestyle so you feel healthier and happier.
Comments