Gastric acid or stomach acid, is a digestive fluid formed in the stomach and is composed of hydrochloric acid (HCl), potassium chloride (KCl) and sodium chloride (NaCl). The acid plays a key role in digestion of proteins, by activating digestive enzymes. Gastric acid is produced by cells in the lining of the stomach, which are coupled in feedback systems to increase acid production when needed. Other cells in the stomach produce bicarbonate, a base, to buffer the fluid, ensuring that it does not become too acidic. These cells also produce mucus, which forms a viscous physical barrier to prevent gastric acid from damaging the stomach. The pancreas further produces large amounts of bicarbonate and secretes bicarbonate through the pancreatic duct to the duodenum to completely neutralize any gastric acid that passes further down into the digestive tract.
Symptoms of Stomach Acid Imbalance
Bloating
Belching
Pain or tenderness in the middle of the abdomen
Excessive feeling of fullness
Fungal infections, such as candida
Indigestion
Diarrhea or constipation
Food allergies
Nausea and vomiting
Undigested foods in stools
Heartburn
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Fatigue
Autoimmune disorders
Causes of Stomach Acid Imbalance
1. The most salient cause for this problem is the deficiency of vitamins and minerals necessary for the production and absorption of acids. Malnutrition and poor eating habits can also cause a deficiency in vitamins and minerals leading to an imbalance in stomach acid production. Alcohol and substance abuse can contribute to this imbalance.
2. Stress is another cause that can result in the imbalance of stomach acid as it interferes with the proper production of hydrochloric acid.
3. Another cause is the Helicobacter pylori or H pylori. This spiral-shaped bacterium found in the stomach can attach to stomach cells and interfere with stomach acid production resulting in an imbalance. Stomach acid imbalance can occur with age. This is because the production of stomach acids decreases with age.
20 Foods To Lower Acidity In Stomach Naturally
1. Ginger
2. Banana
3. Melon
4. Raw Spinach
5. Parsley
6. Garlic
8. Lettuce
9. Zucchini
.
10. Citrus Fruits
11. Nuts
13. Sunflower Seeds
14. Flax Seeds
15. Eggs
16. Curd
17. Millet
18. Cinnamon
19. Mustard
20. Curry Leaves
For detail: Read more at:
https://www.boldsky.com/health/nutrition/2017/twenty-foods-to-lower-acidity-in-stomach-naturally/articlecontent-pf142311-109722.htmlTreatment for Stomach Acid Imbalance
The most common treatment for an imbalance of stomach acid is antacid. However, it is important to use antacid in moderation as antacids reduce the amount of stomach acid, which can be disastrous if the symptoms are caused by low stomach acid production. Therefore, any symptoms of stomach acid imbalance should be reported to a doctor. Untreated symptoms of acid imbalance can lead to damaged stomach lining, ulcers, strictures and even cancer. Medication may be prescribed depending on the cause of the symptoms. Meanwhile, there are some natural remedies that may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms associated with stomach acid imbalance.
Reduce stress
Eat frequently
Avoid skipping meals
Eat small meals
Include foods high in complex carbohydrates
Avoid spicy and oily foods
Avoid stale and fatty foods
Avoid acidic foods
Drink plenty of water
Avoid drinking alcohol and coffee
The imbalance in stomach acid production can lead to various problems. These problems may become chronic and have long-term complications. Therefore, any persistent symptom of stomach acid imbalance requires medical attention.
