In recent years, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have gained popularity as a method for treating heartburn, acid reflux, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Commonly known as Prilosec, Prevacid, and Nexium, these drugs neutralize the hydrochloric acid in the stomach to alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. However, studies have shown that long-term use of these drugs can lead to severe health complications, including chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Understanding Low Stomach Acid
Low stomach pH (acid), less than 4, is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Contrary to popular belief, symptoms of acid indigestion are often not signs of too much stomach acid but rather a lack of it. As people age, low stomach acid becomes more frequent, plaguing seniors over 50 years old. Symptoms often attributed to excess stomach acid are instead signs that stomach acid is too low, causing food to putrefy in the stomach and create organic acids of fermentation, which leads to heartburn.
This misunderstanding drives the multi-billion-dollar industry built on pharmaceutical antacids, like PPIs, leading to negative consequences for those who rely on them as a solution. By neutralizing stomach acid, individuals using these drugs risk nutrient deficiencies, sickness, and potentially early death.
Risks Associated with Antacid Use
Negative side effects of long-term antacid use include stomach cancer, dementia, irregular heartbeat, heart attacks, iron deficiency, pneumonia, fatigue, and brittle bones. In February, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a report linking PPIs to CKD. Results showed that people using PPIs had a 20% to 50% higher risk of CKD compared to non-users. Consequently, the legal industry has begun pursuing claims against PPI manufacturers in light of recent findings.
Alternative Solutions for Acid Indigestion and Acid Reflux
Individuals experiencing symptoms of acid indigestion can immediately begin to take betaine hydrochloride supplements to address pH imbalances. Six to eight tablets daily are recommended. As a temporary solution, citrocarbonate or aluminum-free sodium bicarbonate powder, which is baking soda, can be dissolved in water and consumed.
For those hesitant about taking betaine hydrochloride or experiencing minor acid indigestion or acid reflux symptoms, several natural remedies exist. By adding lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to meals, individuals can increase their stomach acid levels without resorting to betaine hydrochloride supplements. Combining a half to one teaspoon of sea salt and water for a few days can also help alleviate symptoms.
Educating the Medical Community
It is essential to prioritize restoring stomach acid levels to relieve acid indigestion symptoms. While cardiologists and other medical professionals may be resistant to alternative treatments, millions continue to suffer due to inadequate symptom management. Teaching individuals that antacids can contribute to stomach cancer and other health risks can help prevent further damage.
Proper stomach acid levels are necessary for overall health, and hydrochloric acid (HCL) therapy can also be used to treat diverse health issues. This therapy has been shown to be effective against sinus infections, acne, wound healing, cancer, pneumonia, malaria, spinal meningitis, typhus, liver and intestinal ailments, diabetes, tetanus, and sexual impotence. Unfortunately, this information is often overlooked or dismissed by mainstream medicine.
Further Reading
For those seeking additional information on stomach acid and HCL therapy, several resources are available. “Three Years of HCL Therapy,” by Roy W. Huntsman, discusses the use of dilute hydrochloric acid for diverse health conditions. Another book, “Acid and Alkaline,” by Herman Aihara, provides an in-depth examination of the benefits of HCL therapy. Finally, “Alkalize or Die: Superior Health through Proper Alkaline-Acid Balance,” by Theodore A. Baroody, delves further into the importance of balance for overall health.
