Bloated? Constipated? You might have this deficiency
Photo by Sora Shimazaki
Have you ever felt bloated or uncomfortable after eating, even when you didn’t “overdo” it? Or maybe constipation has become a regular — and frustrating — part of your life.
If this sounds familiar, you might have wondered: Why has my digestion slowed down?
Before reaching for a trendy anti-bloat supplement or a laxative, consider that these symptoms are your body’s way of getting your attention. Bloating and constipation often point to an underlying imbalance, and relying on quick fixes without addressing the root cause can lead to more significant health challenges in the long run.
One common (and often overlooked) root cause of bloating and constipation? Low stomach acid.
When stomach acid is too low, it can disrupt your digestion in ways that might surprise you. Let’s break it down (pun intended 😉)
Why Stomach Acid Matters
Stomach acid plays a critical role in keeping your digestion running smoothly. Produced by the parietal cells in your stomach, it is essential for:
Breaking down food
Sanitizing food to kill harmful pathogens
Supporting nutrient absorption for key vitamins and minerals like B12, magnesium, calcium, and zinc
When your stomach isn’t producing enough stomach acid, it can throw your digestion — and your health — off balance in several ways:
Protein isn’t fully digested, leading to gas and bloating
Undigested food moves through the digestive tract, “gunking up” the system, causing constipation, and feeding bad bacteria
Nutrient absorption is compromised, creating a ripple effect of imbalances throughout your body
Signs You Might Have Low Stomach Acid
How can you tell if low stomach acid might be an issue for you? Here are some common signs:
Feeling full or bloated after meals or like there’s a “rock” in your stomach
Burping, indigestion, or heartburn after eating
Chronic constipation or irregular bowel movements
Microbiome imbalances, like SIBO or Candida
Frequent nausea without an apparent cause
Bad breath (due to undigested food fermenting in the stomach)
No longer tolerating or having an appetite for animal products, especially red meat
Increased susceptibility to food poisoning
What Causes Low Stomach Acid?
Several factors can reduce your stomach’s ability to produce enough acid:
Stress: When your body is in “survival mode,” digestion takes a back seat
Nutrient deficiencies: Low levels of zinc, sodium, or B12 can affect stomach acid production
Long-term use of acid-reducing medications: Antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can interfere with stomach acid production over time
Pathogens like H. pylori: This bacteria can damage the stomach lining and reduce stomach acid production
The Good News
Low stomach acid is something we can address! With the right support, your digestion can get back on track.
Rather than simply managing symptoms, I take a comprehensive approach to identify and resolve the root causes. This includes:
Solid nutrition to provide the essential building blocks for stomach acid production
Stress management to support your nervous system and optimize digestion
Identifying food triggers that may be contributing to your symptoms
Testing for pathogens that interfere with proper stomach acid production
When stomach acid is restored, you may notice improved digestion, less bloating, easy and regular bowel movements, and better energy and focus, thanks to improved nutrient absorption.
Everything starts running smoothly again — literally. 💩😌
Ready for Real Solutions?
If you’re tired of dealing with daily digestive issues like bloating or constipation, it’s time to uncover the root causes and create a personalized plan for your unique needs. Book a complimentary discovery call, and let’s figure out the best next step for you.
This information is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use. I am not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your own medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your own medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation. For my full Disclaimer, please visit www.alisonkeiper.com/disclaimer.