Guest Author - Sharon Lasitter

What Are the Dangers of Hypochlorhydria?
Because the normal production of stomach acid is vital to the digestive process, and therefore the release of nutrients into the body, Hypochlorhydria can lead to many health issues. Food that is not broken down moves from the stomach, into the small intestine and colon, and then exits the body unutilized. In other words, you can eat to your heart’s content, but if you have Hypochlorhydria your body can reach starvation mode, and begin to display symptoms of nutrient deprivation. High acid levels are required for the break down of many trace minerals such as zinc, iron, copper, magnesium, calcium, boron, selenium, and vitamins B12 and B3, which are vital for organ support. Childhood asthma is also related to Hypochlorhydria, so a healthy diet is essential for children.

Hypochlorhydria and GI Tract Symptoms:

Bad breath

Metallic taste in mouth

Sore tongue

Heartburn (possibly leading to esophageal damage, Barrett’s Esophagus or cancer)

Stomach bloating and belching immediately after eating

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Foul smelling gas

Indigestion

Diarrhea or constipation

Celiac Disease

Gallbladder Disease

Stomach Cancer

Childhood asthma

Hypochlorhydria and Dermal Symptoms: (Results of Inhibited Nourishment)

Acne

Rosacea

Hives

Eczema

Vitiligo (loss of skin pigment)

Chronic dry skin

Rectal or anal itching

Hair loss in women (due to zinc deficiency)

Fingernails that are weak, peeling or cracked

Hypochlorhydria and Systemic Symptoms: (Results of Inhibited Nourishment)

Chronic fatigue

Adrenal fatigue

Autoimmune diseases (including arthritis)

Food allergies and sensitivities

Systemic Candida (stomach acid kills much of the harmful yeasts that may be ingested)

Graves Disease

Anemia

Lupus

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)


What causes Hypochlorhydria?

There are several causes of Hypochlorhydria. A certified Naturopath or Acupuncturist can pinpoint individual causes. Major causes include:

Poor diet (a diet high in white flour, high fat and low fiber – if this sounds like your diet, then you probably

already know the culprit, though there may be several)

Over 45 (at age 45, stomach acid naturally decreases)

Improper use of heartburn medications (heartburn medications are only used properly in those people with

Hyperchlorhydria [high stomach acid.])

Helicobacter pylori (bacterial infection)

Gastric Bypass Surgery

An immune system depleted by overgrowth of bad bacteria (Hypochlorhydria invites the colonization of bad

bacteria in the GI tract, which is exacerbated by the use of antibiotics.)

*Please know that I am not a medical doctor or a health practitioner. I cannot diagnose your stomach problems nor can I guarantee a cure. I am here to share my knowledge, which applications have worked for me and to offer suggestions of where you may go physically, emotionally and spiritually for healing and self-empowerment. If you choose to explore alternative medicine, do not independently stop taking your prescribed medications. Always consult with your current doctor as well as your new practitioner when changing your medical program. Find a Naturopath near you.