You know that feeling when you learn you’ve been doing something wrong? It’s like, “Oh… bummer.” I’ve been having that feeling a lot in the past year, ever since I threw myself into holistic and real food healing. Case in point: heartburn treatment.
My heartburn “Oh… bummer” moment
I’ve had heartburn my whole life. A few years ago (before I turned into a holistic-healing-obsessed hippie), it was so severe that I went to the doctor begging to a solution. I was offered Prilosec and eagerly grabbed the prescription, grateful for the promise of relief and too oblivious to ask questions. Although the medication stopped the digestive pain, I had a distinct uneasiness when it came to swallowing the pill every morning. After a year on the medication, I decided to listen to my body’s message of apprehension and I quit Prilosec.
As I transitioned slowly into real food, my heartburn gradually improved. Finally, when I started the GAPS diet, it literally disappeared overnight. Recently, I’ve discovered the key interaction between heartburn, stomach acid and overall health. Learning this certainly brought an “oh… bummer” moment. Fortunately, armed with this information, I can take more steps to completely cure my heartburn!
Heartburn and Indigestion: Myths and Facts
Myth:
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid is to high and should therefore be treated with antacids (Tums, sodium bicarbonate, milk of magnesia) or drugs which inhibit stomach acid secretion (Prilosec, Zantac, Pepcid).
Truth:
Heartburn usually accompanies low stomach acid, which leads to malabsorbtion of key nutrients. It can be treated with a nourishing diet and supplements instead of drugs which can further increase nutrient malabsorption.
What causes heartburn?
Heartburn, indigestion and GERD result when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)–the valve which closes of the stomach from the esophagus–malfunctions. Instead of tightly closing after food has entered the stomach, it loosens and acidic stomach fluid escapes into the lower part of the esophagus causing a burning sensation. Interestingly, 90% of folks with heartburn have low stomach acid.
What can cause LES malfunction
Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, food allergies, low stomach acid, acidic fruits, carbonated beverages, sugar, overeating, certain drugs… Obviously, a lot of factors play into LES malfunction. On the bright side, transitioning to a real food diet (perhaps also a grain-free diet, if necessary) will go a long way in fixing the LES.
What is the wrong way to treat heartburn?
Now that we know heartburn/indigestion results from LES malfunction and not high stomach acid, heartburn medications don’t seem very logical. Popping pills to neutralize or inhibit stomach acid may reduce the sensation of heartburn, but it fosters new health issues.
Dangers of modern heartburn treatments
Why is reducing stomach acid with over-the-counter acid neutralizers (bicarbonate of soda, milk of magnesia, Malox, Tums…) or prescriptions (Prilosec, Zantac, Pepcid…) dangerous?
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Low stomach acid cannot properly breakdown proteins into amino acids. Lack of amino acids in the bloodstream means less available neurotransmitters which can mean mood disorders like depression. Further, food allergies can result when the undigested proteins escape into the bloodstream.
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Low stomach acid fosters imbalanced gut flora. Pathogenic and food borne bacteria, usually killed by the low stomach pH, can make their way into the intestines. Further, lack of acidity in the stomach makes it more hospitable to bacterial growth (and the stomach should be relatively sterile).
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Low stomach acid leads to nutrient malabsorption. Specifically, when proteins aren’t fully broken down, B12 absorption is disrupted. Folate and nonheme iron absorption are also affected by low stomach acid.
Source: Why Stomach Acid Is Good for You: Natural Relief from Heartburn, Indigestion, Reflux and GERD
What is the right way to treat heartburn?
Now that medications and pills are out of the question, what is the real heartburn cure? First, strengthen the LES by transitioning to a nourishing diet (get this book, if you don’t have it yet) . In many cases, it is necessary to identify and remove allergens from the diet with the help of a naturopath or alternative health practitioner. In more serious cases, rebalance the gut flora and treat the food allergies with a grain-free, healing diet like the GAPS diet.
Next, look into taking hydrochloric acid supplements (HCL) and digestive enzymes with meals. This helps your body break down and absorb the nutrients in your food and can reduce heartburn. Preferably, work with a naturopath to when starting HCL supplementation. If that is not an option, determine your optimal HCL dosage (that link also suggests specific brands of HCL/pepsin supplements).
Do you struggle with heartburn? Do you take HCL and/or digestive enzymes?
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My naturopath has me on an HCL test right now to determine if low stomach acid is causing my digestive issues. I actually take my first pill today, so I don’t know how mu stomach will like it. I didn’t know a lot of this before! Thanks for the info.
Good luck! I hope it goes well, and I hope it quickly makes a difference for you!
My stomach burning was directly related to high blood pressure. Didn’t know I had it for years. Now that I’m on adrenal related high blood pressure meds, I’ve had no stomach problems AT ALL. Go to the local drug store, the one with the free blood pressure test and do it.
HCL is magic. It saved me from digestive hell. Well, that and eating real food. <3
I had to stop eating at night because my heartburn would keep me up all night. When I started taking digestive enzymes, I can eat at night with no problems!
Thanks so much for writing this. This info desperately needs to get out into the blogosphere!
Is it possible to have to much stomach acid though? I have had SEVERE acid reflux and stomach pain for the past couple years and it’s getting worse. I haven’t had the proton inhibitors yet because I am either nursing or pregnant all the time lol….I actually tried the GAPS diet and because of the kraut and broths I would want to kill over from the acid. I had to stop because it was actually getting worse from eating those. I had h pylori twice and my gallbladder removed. So I am wondering if I actually do have to much acid. I am pregnant (haha told you) and am almost gonna give in to Zantac because I just want to be able to eat and drink w/ out suffering and the stomach pain is unbearable! Just wanted your opinion
thanks
sorry I accidently typed my email address wrong. It is fixed in this one
thanks
My eldest son suggested a website I had already read after many years of acid reflux and taking Prilosec AD. The article said to eat apples so I started by eating half an apple each morn then more during the day. that was two years ago and I have not had anymore acid reflux problems. I even eat a couple slices just before bedtime. Great relief!
Now that is interesting! I haven’t heard of that before… I’m very intrigued about what component in the apples brings about such drastic results! Thank you for sharing your experience!
To Julie B: Sounds like the problem lies in needing to heal your stomach lining First.
Its still a case of weak stomach acid, but with so much inflammation in there, you need to put out the fires first with things like fresh raw cabbage juice (heals ulcers) and unsweetened aloe vera pulp. There’s a great product called Repairvite also if you have a holistic doc to order it for you. Then after you’ve healed the lining, you have A fair chance at increasing your hcl with fermented foods to stimulate production and bitters. I’d be Cautious going right to betaine Hcl too fast and would start it very minimally and ONLY taken with a meal containing animal protein. Maybe some of this an help. I feel your pain!
That is excellent advice! Thank you for sharing this information with all of us. I am currently trying to heal my stomach lining so I can tolerate HCL betine supplements, too. I’m using L Glutamine 3 times a day, since I’m limited by the GAPS diet to what other things I can take for this issue. DGL licorice is also supposed to help (but I can’t take that).
Also, Raia’s advice below about taking apple cider vinegar is great. I’ve found that very effective for immediate heartburn relief. Try a teaspoon or so in water.
Thanks for this article, Lauren, and for the comment, Gypsy.
I had one of those tests done where they put the scope down into your stomach and upper intestinal tract. They found gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) that was in the process of HEALING!! Yep… I started drinking raw milk kefir every morning and by then I was 6 weeks into it.
I got off Prilosec and started eating healthier. I am now even eating fermented veggies a few times a week. (I tried eating them daily but it is just too hard). I also am trying to drink more homemade bone broth as well
I wish my father could see this article, as he is on Prilosec as a result of LES issues. He was diagnosed as having GERD. I worry about his health!
I had a problem with heartburn during pregnancy and sipping apple cider vinegar throughout the day worked wonders!
The apple cider vinegar is really helpful; just be careful to rinse your teeth afterwards to protect the enamel.
I had heartburn and GERD 40 years, did the antacids,prilosec etc. Didn’t go away.GAPS diet…it’s gone, also my arthritis. DID YOU KNOW a study was done with Prilosec where there were 2 groups of people.One had never had heartburn, the other did. Both groups were put on Prilosec. And the end of the study, those who had never had heartburn …had to keep taking the Prilosec, or else they had it…. That is pretty sick.
This is a very interesting article and one that I’m going to share with my husband. He suffers greatly from this and takes a pill every day. Can’t wait to help him start healing and get off the medication! Thank you for sharing this, Lauren!
Help! I’ve been on prilosec for a year.3 mo ago it stopped working to the point where my esophagus constricts and food gets stuck going down..I’ve had to be on a mushy liquid diet consisting of fruit smoothies, soft eggs, and liquid soups and yogurt for 3. Mo. And. I’m. 96 lbs. ..reg food gets stuck. I also can’t even lean back for over 5 hrs after eating anything. Even water causes me reflux, and when I tried apple cider vinegar it made it. Sooo much worse. Its very scary to feel like your esophagus is shutting down on you, it makes experiments hard when food and pills get stuck. I am due to have a scope done soon. They want me on nexium or prevacid instead, but I’m afraid to take those. Is it low stomach acid if even water causes my esophagus to constrict and my heartburn to flare?
I’m so sorry to hear about this! I’m not qualified or experienced to give you medical advice, though. All I can suggest is finding a good naturopath who is qualified to help with this. I would also suggest finding an experienced acupuncture practitioner and looking into a grain-free, healing diet such as the GAPS diet.
My son has Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome and as a result his muscles and soft tissues are significantly affected. They are lax and stretching out. He truly has severe GERD. His diet is as holistic and organic as a diet can be. He has never even eaten a french fry, potato chip or had a soft drink in his life. PPI’s are critical for him. Gastric acid eroded the backs of his molar teeth. His esophagus has suffered damage, became stenotic at the mid range and he can only tolerate foods that have been pureed. It continues to deteriorate.
I share this only to encourage you to include a caveat. Not everyone who takes meds like a PPI can stop. To do so would cause more harm. We are aware of the issues that may arise from taking the PPI’s, but we are informed.
We JUST found out that our 5 year old has Rubinstein-Taybi, and are searching for a diet that may be conducive to his health. But is that vegan? Vegetarian? Paleo? I have checked so many options…can you email me with resources? I’d appreciate it more than you can ever know.
the article states weak acid causes LES dysfunction but why then are acidic citric fruits bad?
I don’t know the scientific answer to that. Generally, acidic fruits can be mildly irritating. Also, the acid in the fruit is different than stomach acid. I am now curious to know the scientific answer to this question!
Lauren,
thetastyalternative.com had a link to your blog and this is how I came here. I clicked on the link because it said you had SCD recipes and I wanted to check them out
I was pleasantly surprised to find your post about this topic as I also posted one a few days ago on my blog:
http://nutritiongang.com/low-stomach-acidity-hypochlorhydria/
(you can delete that link if you think it’s not appropriate)
You covered the most important points, however I would like to add that while taking HCL is very important, something more important is to work on getting your stomach produce more acid naturally.
I have been able to go from 9 pills per meal (650mg per pill) down to 2 in about 3 months. For this you need to find the reason why your stomach is not producing enough acid. In my case the main reason was a candida overgrowth – candida is very good at lowering stomach acid.
Take care,
Charles W. James
Author of the “Superfoods Power Collection”.
Charles, thank you so much for sharing your experience and your great article! I’m excited that you found me through Amber’s site– I love her blog!
I took HCL for 3 weeks under the direction of a nutritional therapist. I had not been tested for low stomach acid, but she said that other issues I was having could be helped by raising stomach acid. Unfortunately, I began experiencing heartburn only after starting HCL. Eventually the pain in my chest got better (after many months), but for 2 years, I have had pain in my stomach on a daily basis when cooking or after eating. I had an endoscopy, biopsies, and blood tests, and it turns out I burned my stomach lining taking HCL unnecessarily and now I’m on PPIs to allow it to heal.
Just wanted to add a word of caution that this is a serious choice and you really need to know what you’re doing, or it could cause even further problems. I would make sure you absolutely know you have low stomach acid, and try natural ways to increase it before directly supplementing with HCL.
Yes! Astute advice, Melanie. In many cases, it is necessary to strengthen the stomach lining before taking HCL when you have had low stomach acid for a long period of time. I spoke to Charles, from the comment above, who is an expert on this subject. He said zinc, vitamin A from liver, and raw honey are excellent in strengthening the stomach lining. I’m following his suggested protocol at the moment!
I used to have heartburn so bad if I skipped a pill, I’d have heart attack-like symptoms. Last year I switched my family to a low-processed, organic diet. A few months later I noticed that I didn’t need to take Tums throughout the day. I decided to be brave and cut my medicine dose to every other day. After two weeks I noticed that I hadn’t had heartburn or an asthma attack once. When I ran out of pills, I didn’t get more. I noticed that I only have a slight burn now if I eat tomato-based sauces, but recently, my son’s OT suggested that I put 1 Tbsp of baking soda in my sauce. I did and no problems! Thanks for this post. I’ve been raving about my success for about six months now and people keep telling me it’s a fluke or that something had to change with my last pregnancy (I didn’t mention that I changed my diet while I was pregnant, with my doctor’s blessing; also my heartburn always worsened with pregnancy – I have four boys – and this time it went away). Yeah, I’ve had reflux my whole life. I don’t think things like that just go away on their own.
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Lauren,
My body had the same reaction to taking an acid reducer prescription, in fact, I couldn’t keep anything down and was nauseous. AND after losing 7 lbs in 10 days from this, I was THEN told to take 2 instead of 1 pill!!
I cried all the way to the health food store where I found the book that saved me “The Gut Solution”. I read up on what a hiatel hernia looks like in diagram form and learned how to meditate. I learned about the lack of stomach acid and started an eating plan that worked for me. I went off of caffeine and alcohol for 6 weeks. Started my day with plenty of fruit. Drank lots of water throughout the day. Had no carbs at lunch, only protein and veggies. Had no protein for dinner, only veggies and carbs. Ate NOTHING after 7pm. Raised the head of my bed 6″ and tried to sleep on my left side. I drank aloe, took probiotics, ginger, apple cider vinegar tablets as well.
I lost 25 pounds over the 6 weeks and most of my GERD and hiatel hernia issues were nearly gone.
I LOVE your site. Can’t wait to try the strawberry/ginger sorbet, cauliflower wraps, and want to buy some of the Tulsi tea for my mood issues. Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!
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