How many of us realize that stomach acid is really important for our overall health?
Stomach acids are necessary for:
- Properly emptying the stomach
- Digesting proteins in foods
- Absorbing essential vitamins and minerals
- Sterilizing the stomach to prevent infection by pathogens
The importance of stomach acid may not be so obvious for those of us suffering from acid reflux and indigestion when said acid leaves an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest after eating. This, however, means our stomach acid is simply in the wrong location: up in the esophagus where there is no protective lining. The valve at the bottom of the esophagus controlling the opening to the stomach somehow loosens and does not close tightly, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. So the root of the problem with acid reflux is not stomach acid itself, but rather whatever is causing the valve to open unnecessarily.
Source: Jan-Otto
Acid-suppressing drugs are used to relieve acid reflux symptoms and protect the esophagus from serious damage. They include acid-neutralizing drugs (or antacids) for mild symptoms, and stronger drugs like Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) for chronic or severe symptoms. PPIs are the most effective acid-suppressing drug on the market, and they work by inhibiting acid secretion in the stomach altogether.
However, long-term usage of strong acid-suppressing drugs like PPIs is cause for much concern. Over time, it reduces stomach acidity too much, hindering the stomach’s ability to perform its functions, and even perpetuating indigestion and acid-reflux. Low stomach acidity has been associated with increased risk of stomach-flu infection. A serious intestinal infection due to overgrowing Clostridium difficiles bacteria is significantly more likely when there is not enough stomach acid to properly digest food.
Furthermore, most essential vitamins and minerals require a very acidic stomach environment to be properly absorbed – including calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Studies have shown the link between increased risk of osteoporosis (bone weakening and fractures) and poor absorption of calcium, due to high doses or long-term usage of PPIs. Vitamin B12 deficiency may also result from prolonged usage of PPIs, and if left untreated, can lead to anemia or nerve damage.
Source: milanfoto
Still, acid-suppressing drugs serve to protect the esophagus from inflammation, and stronger medications may be necessary for severe acid indigestion symptoms. If the symptoms occur frequently and over a prolonged period, however, acid-suppressing drugs will probably not be an effective solution, and overuse of these drugs can put one at risk of serious health complications.
Feature Image Source: Treasure
