Unlock the mysteries of autoimmune diseases and embark on a journey toward healing with insights that reveal how seemingly disparate conditions like Hashimoto’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, and Rheumatoid Arthritis share a common thread—a misdirected immune system.
Discover why our modern lifestyle, filled with processed foods, stress, and toxins, might be fueling a rise in these illnesses and learn about the unique, underlying triggers that could be affecting your health.
Whether it's intestinal permeability, heavy metal toxicity, or food sensitivities, unraveling these triggers is your first step toward remission. Imagine taking control of your health with the power of gluten elimination and targeted gut healing strategies that promise relief and a new way of living.
Ready to diminish inflammation and reclaim your vitality? Dive into a tailored approach to wellness, where personalized guidance awaits to help you piece together your unique health puzzle. Your path to lasting healing and a life free from autoimmune complications begins now.
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How can you tell if you have low stomach acid and why does it matter?
A healthy stomach creates a highly acidic environment with a pH between 1.0 and 2.5, which is essential for proper digestion. However, various modern lifestyle factors can lower stomach acid production.
Common causes which can reduce acid secretion include:
- age
- H. Pylori overgrowth
- chronic stress
- low thyroid hormone
- certain autoimmune conditions
As we age, the most significant cause of reduced stomach acid is an infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). While H. pylori is commonly present in the gut, it can overgrow and persist silently for years. This low-grade infection can reduce stomach acid over time and, if left unchecked, may lead to ulcers. Interestingly, H. pylori thrives in a low-acid environment and works to suppress stomach acid further, creating a cycle of poor digestion.
Studies estimate that around 50% of people aged 60 and older produce insufficient stomach acid, with this number rising to 80% by age 85. Low stomach acid, also known as hypochlorhydria, can lead to a wide range of health issues, yet it often goes unnoticed in conventional medicine.
To make matters worse, acid-suppressing medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers (used to treat acid reflux) significantly lower stomach acidity, providing temporary relief but long-term consequences.
These drugs, along with NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) and antibiotics, can impair stomach acid production and lead to poor nutrient absorption over time.
Strong stomach acid is vital for breaking down proteins, absorbing vitamins like B12, and making essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc available for absorption. When stomach acid is too low, the digestive enzyme pepsin becomes less effective, and the entire digestive process is compromised. This affects not only digestion but also the balance of pancreatic and gallbladder enzymes, which are critical for overall health.
Hypochlorhydria has been linked to a variety of health issues, including hormone imbalances, neurotransmitter deficiencies, B12 deficiency (leading to fatigue, cognitive problems, and nerve damage), and poor mineral absorption, which can contribute to conditions like anemia, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases, depression, and hypothyroidism.
Common signs of low stomach acid include:
- Nausea after taking supplements (except for zinc, which can cause nausea on its own)
- Undigested food in stools.
- Bloating, belching, or feeling full during or after meals.
- Frequent gut infections or imbalances, such as candida or parasites.
- B12 or iron deficiency despite eating animal-based foods.
- Brittle hair or nails.
- Chronic allergies or skin conditions like rosacea
- Osteopenia or osteoporosis
- Fatigue after eating, even after a small or slow meal.
- Multiple food allergies or sensitivities
- Chronic indigestion or GERD (acid reflux)
Addressing low stomach acid can significantly improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. If you suspect low stomach acid, it may be worth exploring this further, especially if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above.
As a functional medicine health coach, I can help you manage these interconnected conditions and guide you through a comprehensive healing process.
I look beyond just the symptoms of low stomach acid and will work with you to identify and address the root cause of the issue. Whether it's related to stress, H. pylori infection, nutrient deficiencies, or thyroid imbalances, I will create a personalized plan tailored to your unique health needs.
This customized strategy will consider your overall lifestyle, health history, and current challenges. This whole-body approach leads to a more effective and sustainable resolution for issues like low stomach acid, unlike generic one-size-fits-all solutions.
Diet plays a crucial role in managing stomach acid levels, but figuring out the right foods can be confusing. I will provide tailored dietary recommendations, teaching you how to eat for optimal digestion, and support you with practical lifestyle tips like reducing stress, improving sleep, and optimizing nutrient absorption.
I offer an effective supplement protocol for low stomach acid that goes beyond just HCL Betaine and digestive enzymes. I’ll guide you in using supplements safely and effectively, helping you find the right dosage to avoid discomfort or complications..
However, addressing low stomach acid isn't just about taking supplements; it's about helping your body heal and restore proper function. I will work with you to develop strategies to rebuild gut health, balance hormones, and improve stomach acid production over time. You will have ongoing support, so you're not left to figure things out on your own.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed or inconsistent when trying to address health issues. I am here to provide you accountability and encouragement, help you stay on track, tweak your approach when needed, and ensure long-term success with your health goals.
By working with me as your health coach, you'll receive personalized care that not only improves your stomach acid levels but also enhances your overall health and well-being in the long run!
Apply for a free discovery call today to learn how I can support you!
YOUR THYROID HAS SO MUCH TO DO WITH EVERYTHING.
Are you suffering from any of these symptoms?
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Resistant weight loss
- Difficulty sleeping
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Feeling cold even in warm weather
- Muscle aches
- Depression
- Memory issues or brain fog
These symptoms can often point to hypothyroidism, a condition where an underactive thyroid fails to produce enough hormones to support your metabolism and energy levels.
Cholesterol is often misunderstood, as it is crucial for many bodily functions despite its negative reputation. Produced by the liver, cholesterol is essential for cell membrane integrity, hormone balance, bile production, and vitamin D synthesis. It acts as a "messenger" reflecting the body's state, similar to blood sugar or thyroid hormones, and needs to be in balance for optimal health.
Contrary to popular belief, recent studies suggest that extremely low cholesterol levels might be harmful. The body's natural balance prevents issues by regulating cholesterol based on one's lifestyle and needs. When inflammation occurs, cholesterol production may increase as part of the body's emergency response, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying causes such as diet, stress, and gut health.
In conventional medicine, statins are commonly used to lower cholesterol but might suppress vital processes, as they also inhibit CoQ10, important for energy production. Understanding the types of LDL and the role of HDL is crucial for managing cholesterol effectively. Emphasizing a holistic approach allows individuals to explore and address the root causes of high cholesterol rather than merely suppressing it, promoting overall health and vitality.
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Conventional medicine focuses primarily on symptom management through medications, surgery, or other treatments, without necessarily addressing the root causes of health issues. In contrast, functional medicine delves deeper into understanding the underlying imbalances or dysfunctions within the body by considering the interconnectedness of its various systems.
