In the last issue, we talked about why stomach acid is so important, and
how low levels can quietly affect everything from digestion to nutrient
absorption to reflux symptoms.
Now the next question becomes: what can you actually do about it?
The good news is that your body is designed to produce stomach acid. The
goal is not to force it, but to support it so your digestive system can
function the way it was meant to.
One of the simplest (and most overlooked) places to start is how you eat.
Digestion doesn’t begin in the stomach, it begins in the brain. When you eat in
a rushed, stressed state, your body shifts into “fight or flight,” and
digestion takes a back seat. Slowing down, sitting down for meals, and chewing
your food thoroughly sends a signal to your body that it’s safe to digest,
which helps stimulate proper stomach acid production.
Simple additions to your meals can also help. Bitter foods like arugula,
dandelion greens, or even a squeeze of lemon before eating can gently stimulate
digestive juices. Eating enough protein is important as well, since protein
intake naturally signals the body to produce more stomach acid. At the same
time, certain nutrients, like zinc and B vitamins, play a role in acid
production, which is why deficiencies can sometimes contribute to the problem.
Stress, however, is one of the biggest disruptors. Chronic stress can
significantly reduce stomach acid over time, which is why so many people notice
worsening digestion during busy or overwhelming periods of life. Supporting
your nervous system is just as important as supporting your diet when it comes
to improving digestion.
There are also targeted tools that functional practitioners may use when
appropriate, such as digestive bitters or betaine HCl. One method often used in
functional medicine is something called an “HCl challenge,” which helps assess
how much stomach acid support a person may need. However, this is not something
to experiment with on your own. When used incorrectly, it can cause discomfort
or irritation, especially if there are underlying issues like inflammation or
infections. This is why guidance and personalization are key.
Another important piece is addressing underlying imbalances that may be
contributing to low stomach acid in the first place. This can include gut
infections like H. pylori, chronic inflammation, or long-term use of
acid-suppressing medications. Without addressing these root causes, simply
adding support may not fully resolve the issue.
The bigger picture is this: improving stomach acid is not about one quick
fix. It’s about restoring balance to the entire digestive system: how you eat,
how you manage stress, and how your body is supported at a deeper level.
When digestion improves, everything downstream begins to shift: better
nutrient absorption, more stable energy, improved gut health, and even more
balanced hormones.
Your body already knows how to do this. Sometimes it just needs the right
support to get back on track.
