THE BURNING TRUTH

Almost everyone at one time or another has experienced acid indigestion, or what some people refer to as heartburn. A more serious related condition would be a stomach ulcer. Most people, including doctors, if asked what causes these conditions, would probably say excess acid. But contrary to common belief, stomach ulcers are almost never caused from excess acid but rather from insufficient hydrochloric acid (HCL). The condition usually begins with some underlying metabolic imbalance that sets the body up for a decreased production of HCL secreted into the stomach. An example might be someone with an electrolyte insufficiency or with the inability to effectively digest carbohydrates. Also in times of physical and mental stress the body shuts down "rest & relaxation" functions, which includes secretion of digestive enzymes including HCL. In today's fast paced lifestyle of fast food drive-through, many people eat on the run, which is in direct violation to the design of our body’s best function. Most cultures other than ours allow for several hours during the midday to rest after lunch. A siesta is therapeutic.

The insufficient stomach acid allows for fermentation and putrefaction of poorly digested food, primarily protein. These partially digested proteins move into the bloodstream creating allergies, mood swings, headaches etc. An alkaline intestinal tract promotes over growth of yeast, mold, and fungus. The fermentation produces irritating acids and intestinal gas, which leads to bloating and pressure onto the cardiac sphincter. The cardiac sphincter is a valve like structure between the stomach and esophagus, and backward pressure allows for acid reflux and/or hiatal hernia symptoms. The reflux and indigestion is mistaken for too much acid and the patient (or the doctor) thinks an anti-acid is needed. This might give temporary relief but is actually making the problem worse by driving the stomach further into an acid insufficient state.

Research shows that ulcers are most often caused by a bacterial infection, Helicobactor pylori (HbP). This bacterium thrives in a low acid environment and after established in the stomach mucosa, secretes enzymes that inhibit and neutralize acid production by the stomach. HbP is found in 70-75% of stomach ulcer patients and 90-100% of duodenal ulcer patients. As you can see, use of anti-acids as an ulcer remedy will perpetuate the problem by further decreasing stomach acid activity. Research also shows that 70-90% of the people taking systemic anti-acids like Tagamet, Zantac, Pepcid and Axid have a relapse within a year after discontinued use. This information about Helicobactor pylori has been known for years, yet has been effectively suppressed by the pharmaceutical industry for as long as possible because of the huge profits from over the counter and by prescription anti-acid sales. By the way, Tums is not a good source of calcium. In order for calcium to be absorbed, it must be dissolved and ionized by stomach acids. Regular use of these types of antacids can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, kidney stones and mineral imbalances.

If you have some of these symptoms, investigate some other options other than what the television ads tell you. At some point during your journey you will need to get the underlying metabolic imbalance corrected.

Call for a Metabolic Analysis, Network Spinal Analysis, class schedule, and to schedule an appointment.