Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)

What is Hydrochloric acid (HCl)?

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a vital component of gastric juice in the stomach. It plays a crucial role in the digestive process by creating an acidic environment, which is essential for the activation of the enzyme pepsin from its inactive form, pepsinogen. This acidic milieu helps break down proteins into smaller peptides and kills harmful bacteria and pathogens ingested with food. HCl also aids in the absorption of various nutrients, including iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and magnesium by facilitating their release from food particles.

Why causes Lipase deficiency?

Hypochlorhydria, or low hydrochloric acid (HCl), can result from factors like aging (as acid production decreases over time), chronic stress, and certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids, which suppress acid production. Helicobacter pylori infection, which causes chronic gastritis, can also reduce HCl levels. Symptoms include gas, bloating, and discomfort from undigested food fermenting in the gut, as well as reflux due to food lingering in the stomach. Low HCl can impair absorption of nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and magnesium, leading to fatigue, brittle nails, and hair loss. It also increases infection risk, as harmful bacteria are less likely to be killed. Incomplete digestion may also result in larger food particles in stools.

What can I do about it?

Addressing hydrochloric acid deficiency involves dietary and lifestyle changes. Consuming foods rich in zinc, such as meat, shellfish, legumes, and seeds, supports HCl production. Including fermented foods like sauerkraut and apple cider vinegar before meals can help stimulate stomach acid production. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and avoiding excessive use of antacids and PPIs is helpful. HCl supplements can also be used for extreme deficiencies.