Digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, and constipation are more common than you think. But is your stomach acid really too high, or could it be the opposite? Let’s do a gut check and discuss digestion, and how conventional medicine often misses the mark when treating stomach acid problems.
Digestion Begins in the Mouth: Are You Chewing Enough?
Digestion starts the moment food enters your mouth, not when it reaches your stomach. Chewing thoroughly—up to 40 times per bite—stimulates digestive enzymes, signals your brain that you're getting full, and helps prime your stomach to break down food efficiently. But in today's fast-paced world, most people rush through meals, leading to poor digestion and discomfort. So, slow down and savor each bite, rather than mindlessly scarfing down food. Your gut will thank you.
Stomach Acid Myth vs. Fact: Too Much or Too Little?
One of the most common misconceptions in traditional medicine is the assumption that acid reflux always results from too much stomach acid. In reality, low stomach acid can cause the same symptoms—bloating, heartburn, and indigestion. The drawback, however, is that many doctors instantly resort to prescribing PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) like Prilosec or Nexium which lower stomach acid, often leading to more harm than good.
To determine if your stomach acid is low, try this simple at-home test: Mix 2 Tbsp. of apple cider vinegar in a little water and drink it when experiencing heartburn. If the burning sensation goes away, you likely have low stomach acid. If it worsens, your acid levels may be too high.
Why Stomach Acid is Important
Stomach acid not only helps digest food but is essential for the body’s overall health. It protects from harmful bacteria that could lead to infections such as H. pylori and SIBO. Stomach acid also aids in the absorption of other vital nutrients such as vitamin D, magnesium, B12, iron, and calcium. Without enough acid, you may feel bloated, experience nutrient deficiencies, or suffer from chronic digestive issues.
If you’re taking a PPI long-term, be aware that it was originally intended to be taken for a maximum of two weeks. Being on this type of medication for years can disrupt digestion and put nutrient absorption at risk, which could develop into osteoporosis, anemia, and other deficiencies over time.
Digestive Enzymes & Herbal Bitters: A Natural Solution
If you're dealing with bloating, gas, or sluggish digestion, digestive enzymes can help break down proteins, carbs, and fats more efficiently, especially when taken before large meals. Another traditional remedy is herbal bitters such as dandelion root, burdock, and ginger. They stimulate digestive juices and help your stomach process food properly. If you feel like trying something outside the box, incorporating herbal bitters into your routine might do the trick.
Gut Bacteria: Probiotics vs. Common Brands
A healthy gut depends on good bacteria, but not all probiotics are created equal. Many over-the-counter probiotic brands use ineffective strains or, like Activia yogurt, contain too much sugar.
For a quality probiotic:
- Look for professional-grade brands with Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains.
- Avoid products with added sugars or unnecessary fillers.
- Consider rotating brands every 2 months to maintain a diverse gut microbiome.
Magnesium for Constipation
If you have a sluggish digestive system, you might need to add more magnesium to your diet. Magnesium citrate is best if you struggle with constipation, and magnesium glycinate is great for those without digestive issues but still need support. Drinking plenty of water and getting enough fiber (20-35 grams daily) will also help you stay regular.
Leaky Gut: The Root of Many Health Issues
"Leaky gut" occurs when the lining of your intestines becomes damaged, allowing undigested food particles to enter your bloodstream. This can trigger inflammation, food sensitivities, and even autoimmune conditions.
Some common causes of leaky gut include:
- Chronic stress (fight-or-flight mode weakens digestion)
- Antibiotic overuse (kills good bacteria)
- PPIs and other medications (alter stomach acid and gut function)
- Poor diet (processed foods, sugar, and alcohol)
Healing your gut takes time, but it is possible with the right approach: high-quality probiotics, omega-3s, vitamin D, and stress management techniques like breathing exercises or meditation.
Read More: “The 5 Best Foods for Gut Health”
Gut Check: Final Takeaways
To wrap up our gut check discussion, here are a few takeaways:
- Chew your food– Slow down and give your digestive system a head start.
- Reconsider your PPI– If you've been on one for years, talk to your doctor about weaning off properly.
- Try apple cider vinegar– It can help determine if your acid levels are too high or too low.
- Support digestion– Use digestive enzymes and herbal bitters.
- Take a quality probiotic– Remember to rotate brands every few months.
- Increase magnesium intake– This nutrient supports regular bowel movements.
- Manage stress– Your gut and brain are deeply connected—calming your nervous system can improve digestion.
We hope you learned something from our gut check discussion and will implement some of these gut health tips to improve your digestive symptoms. Want to go deeper? Check out how to fix your gut with the best supplements for gut health!
