The Connection Between Heartburn and Low Stomach Acid

Heartburn is a common problem that affects many people, and it's often thought to be caused by too much stomach acid. However, the reality is that heartburn can also be caused by having too little stomach acid. In this blog post, we'll explore the connection between heartburn and low stomach acid, and what you can do to alleviate symptoms and improve your gut health.

What is Heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that is often caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and burping.

​What is Low Stomach Acid?
Low stomach acid, also known as hypochlorhydria, is a condition in which the stomach does not produce enough acid to properly digest food. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. Low stomach acid can also increase the risk of infections, as the acidic environment in the stomach helps to kill off harmful bacteria.
​
The Connection Between Heartburn and Low Stomach Acid
While heartburn is often thought to be caused by too much stomach acid, it can actually be caused by having too little stomach acid. When the stomach does not produce enough acid, food stays in the stomach longer, leading to fermentation and the production of gas. This gas can put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, causing it to relax and allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn.

How to Improve Stomach Acid Levels
If you think that your heartburn may be caused by low stomach acid, there are several steps you can take to improve your gut health and alleviate symptoms. These include:

1. Eating a healthy diet: Focus on eating a diet that is high in fiber and nutrient-dense foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and nuts.
2. Avoiding trigger foods: Certain foods can trigger heartburn and make symptoms worse. Common trigger foods include caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods.
3. Taking digestive enzymes: Digestive enzymes can help to break down food and improve digestion, which can reduce symptoms of heartburn.
4. Drinking apple cider vinegar: Drinking a small amount of apple cider vinegar before a meal can help to increase the production of stomach acid.
5. Incorporating probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health and reduce symptoms of heartburn.

​In conclusion, heartburn and low stomach acid are closely related and can have a significant impact on your gut health and well-being. By following a healthy diet, avoiding trigger foods, taking digestive enzymes, drinking apple cider vinegar, and incorporating probiotics, you can improve your stomach acid levels and alleviate symptoms of heartburn.