Acid-related digestive complaints rank on the list of most common reasons for visiting a doctor today. Global surveys place the general prevalence of chronic acid-related digestive discomfort at roughly 14% of the worldwide population. Western nations typically see percentages a few points higher—and the U.S. leads the pack. American gastroenterology organizations, along with public health data, estimate that roughly 20% of the U.S. population experiences chronic acid indigestion or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). One could say the U.S. is experiencing an "acid epidemic." It's a relatively new phenomenon, and it's exacerbated by confusion over the cause... because the cause is counter-intuitive. When people say they have "acid indigestion" they typically think they have too much acid in their stomach; however, the problem is almost always the opposite—not enough acid. When a person does not have adequate stomach acid, digestion slows down, food "backs up," and a person will experience "acidic" discomfort. Most common causes Studies show that the frequency and intensity of acid indigestion increases with age; however, in recent decades rates have skyrocketed in all age groups. So, it is no longer just an "elderly" problem. When it comes to pinpointing the causes of the acid epidemic, experts may disagree on which factors are more significant or less significant, but they're actually quite consistent with the generalized list: • Ultra-processed, fast food culture, including liquid culprits.• Unhealthy/excessive weight, which creates "intra-abdominal pressure" on the stomach.• Chronic stress, which directly alters gastrointestinal function.• Sedentary habits and/or "slouched work posture," which affects abdominal cavity and slows digestion.• Late-night schedules and fragmented sleep, which disrupts motility.• Unhealthy gut microbiome—caused by environmental toxins, antibiotics, and all the factors listed above. The fix: Prescription or equilibrium? Most people, when faced with acid indigestion, follow one of two paths. They either acquire a prescription acid reducer from their doctor (known as PPIs or H2 blockers), or they start taking over-the-counter antacids after each meal (i.e. Tums). The distinction here is that calcium carbonate-based antacids are neutralizers—taken after a meal—while prescription acid reducers actually block the production of acid in the first place. However, while they are slightly different in methodology, both of them still change the stomach's overall ability to produce acid. This creates downstream effects that can worsen the underlying indigestion and turn it into a chronic issue. First, they create an "Acid Paradox.": Just at a time when the underlying problem is lack of acid, the prescription acid reducer diminishes stomach acid further. It might offer some temporary help, but the underlying low acid problem actually gets worse. Second, they retard the absorption of key nutrients. When digestion is slowed down, so is nutrient assimilation. A better choice all the way around is to take supplemental nutrients that bring acid production and digestion back into equilibrium. A synergistic trio for optimizing acid Research points to three nutrients that help address an acid indigestion issue: • Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl) As noted above, when stomach acid decreases it paradoxically leads to a feeling of high acid and slow absorption. Betaine HCl supplements add acid back into the stomach to help properly digest proteins and stimulate the lower esophageal sphincter to close properly. • Pepsin Pepsin is the primary proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme naturally produced by the chief cells in the stomach lining. By including Pepsin directly in the capsule alongside Betaine HCl, the supplement ensures you have both the low pH environment and the active enzyme ready to immediately begin breaking down complex proteins (like meat, dairy, beans) the moment the capsule dissolves. • Zinc Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in cellular repair and maintaining the integrity of the mucosal lining of the stomach. Optimal Gastric Prime HCl from Optimal Health System was formulated to bring Betaine HCl, Pesin and Zinc together in one synergistic and effective product. Remember, the goal is not to destroy all the stomach's acid. Acid is needed for optimized digestion. The goal is to let the stomach do its job without "feeling" acidic. Optimal Gastric Prime HCl accomplishes this goal and restores proper digestion. Learn more about Optimal Gastric Prime HCl by clicking the banner ad on this page. - - - Sources: Nature.com, American College of Gastroenterology, Harvard Health (GERD).
