Here are some important insights into how our lifestyle affects stomach acid and why it matters, especially for the absorption of iron and other nutrients!
You cannot absorb iron from food if you have low stomach acid!
This is something many people do not know, but your body needs enough stomach acid to break down and absorb essential nutrients like iron and B12.
Habits that kill your stomach acid:
1. Grazing often - oif there is not a proper interval between meals, the stomach finds it harder to produce enough enzymes → low acidity.
2. Drinking a lot of water with meals - large quantities of water during a meal dilute stomach acid.
3. Eating too quickly - gobbling down your food stresses the digestive system and reduces acid production.
2. Drinking a lot of water with meals - large quantities of water during a meal dilute stomach acid.
3. Eating too quickly - gobbling down your food stresses the digestive system and reduces acid production.
Other causes: stress, overeating and excessive use of acid-suppressing medication (e.g. omeprazole).
Low stomach acid can cause:
• Bloating
Heartburn
• Nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12)
• Food intolerances
• Brittle nails and hair
Habits that help you build up stomach acid:
• Eat at the same times every day
• Drink only a few sips of water with your meal
• Chew your food properly
• Keep your mind calm while eating
• Eat a small piece of ginger with lemon juice before a meal
• Sprinkle a little black pepper or shunti (dried ginger) on the food
Ayurveda reminds us that digestion is the foundation of all health. So take care of your agni consciously, lovingly, and daily.