Why Stomach Acid Isn’t the Enemy: The Real Cause of Heartburn and Bloating

When you feel heartburn, indigestion, or bloating, the first thing most people blame is too much stomach acid. After all, antacids and acid blockers are everywhere. But what if I told you that in many cases, the problem isn’t too much acid — it’s not enough?

At Square One Health, we see this all the time. Low stomach acid (called hypochlorhydria) can be an overlooked cause of digestive distress, nutrient deficiencies, and even gut imbalances.

Why Stomach Acid Matters

Stomach acid isn’t just there to make you uncomfortable — it’s crucial for digestion and your health. Here’s why:

• Breaks down protein: Without enough acid, protein stays undigested, leading to bloating and discomfort.

• Kills bacteria and pathogens: Acid keeps harmful microbes from moving into your intestines.

• Helps absorb minerals and vitamins: Nutrients like B12, iron, calcium, and zinc depend on a healthy acid level.

• Triggers other digestive processes: Acid signals your pancreas and gallbladder to release enzymes and bile.

Low Acid Can Look Like High Acid

Here’s the twist: symptoms of low stomach acid can feel exactly like too much acid. That’s why so many people reach for antacids — and unfortunately, make the problem worse.

Common signs of low stomach acid include:

• Bloating or fullness after meals

• Heartburn or reflux

• Burping

• Undigested food in stool

• Feeling like food “sits” in your stomach

How Low Acid Leads to Heartburn

With low acid, your stomach doesn’t empty as quickly. Food lingers, ferments, and creates pressure. That pressure can push acid (even if there’s not much) upward into your esophagus — causing the burning feeling we call heartburn.

So ironically, low acid can cause acid reflux symptoms.

Supporting Healthy Stomach Acid

If you suspect low stomach acid, don’t panic. There are gentle ways to support better digestion:

• Chew your food well. Digestion starts in the mouth.

• Slow down your meals. The cephalic phase of digestion begins when you think about food.

• Avoid drinking large amounts of water during meals. This can dilute stomach acid.

• Eat in a relaxed state. Stress turns off digestive secretions.

• Consider bitters or digestive support. Talk to a professional before using supplements like betaine HCl.

  
  

A Note of Caution

If you have ulcers, a history of gastritis, or severe reflux, talk to your healthcare provider before trying to increase stomach acid. Your safety always comes first.

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Bottom line: Stomach acid is a critical player in your digestive health — not an enemy. By supporting healthy acid levels, you may finally see relief from bloating, reflux, and discomfort.

At Square One Health, we help you look deeper than symptoms so you can truly feel better.