High stomach acidity

[Daniel]

Hi @iryna_klevetenko !

That sounds really uncomfortable for your uncle, especially when it disrupts sleep like that. Most people think reflux means too much acid, but believe it or not, low stomach acid can feel very similar: burning, bloating, heaviness, and nighttime reflux. Especially as people age or go through stress, acid production can drop.

So it’s good to look at both possibilities: too much or too little stomach acid. Many people end up on acid blockers when the root cause is actually too little acid.

Supplements that can help:

1. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice)
Soothes and supports the stomach lining. Especially useful when there’s irritation or inflammation from acid.

2. Aloe vera (decolorized juice)
Can help reduce acid and calm the gut lining. Must be decolorized (to avoid laxative effects).

3. Slippery elm or marshmallow root

Forms a mucilage that coats and soothes the esophagus and stomach. Great before bed. Make tea from it or take a supplement with warm water. Teas will work and reach the throat. Supplements will not have a soothing effect on the throat unless taken with warm water

4. Zinc-Carnosine (a special form of zinc)
Especially well-studied for reflux, ulcers, and H. pylori. Zinc-carnosine adheres to the stomach lining and promotes healing.

If you suspect low stomach acid, consider:

• Digestive bitters (like gentian, dandelion, or artichoke): Can naturally stimulate acid and bile.

• Betaine HCl with pepsin: If your uncle is on antacid medications, skip this step for now. If you’d like to learn more about how to use this supplement properly, let me know. But don’t start with this if you aren’t familiar with how to use this supplement. If your uncle has too much stomach acid production, this supplement could make his symptoms worse.

There is even more information in this video: https://bbettermembership.com/courses/gut-health-masterclass-2/lessons/herbal-h-pylori-remedies/

Common trigger foods that can worsen symptoms:

Even if stomach acid is low, these foods can irritate or increase reflux-like symptoms:

• Coffee (even decaf)

• Alcohol (wine, beer, spirits)

• Chocolate

• Peppermint or spearmint

• Tomatoes / tomato sauces

• Citrus fruits and juices

• Spicy foods

• Fried or fatty foods

• Carbonated drinks

• Raw onions and garlic

• Full-fat dairy (cheese, cream, ice cream)

• Refined carbs and processed snacks

• Overeating or eating too late

Simple lifestyle tips that can help:

• Eat dinner 2–3 hours before bed

• Raise the head of the bed 10–15 cm

• Chew food thoroughly and eat in a relaxed setting

• Avoid big meals and tight clothing at night

• Keep a food & symptom journal to spot patterns

If his symptoms don’t improve, it’s smart to check for H. pylori or hiatal hernia.

Hope this gives him some real relief soon!

Daniel

• This reply was modified 2 weeks, 6 days ago by  Daniel.

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[iryna_klevetenko]

Thank you Daniel!