Insufficient Digestive Enzymes Or Stomach Acid
The stomach should be an incredibly acidic place in order for complete digestion to occur. The acid in the stomach starts to break down proteins in food, kills off bacteria and parasites and releases minerals from food.
There are also a multitude of digestive enzymes that aid the digestive process throughout the digestive tract. These continue the breakdown of protein, fats and carbohydrates and the release of nutrients.
Without sufficient amounts of either stomach acid or digestive enzymes digestive symptoms as well as a bacterial imbalance and nutrient deficiencies can arise.
Causes
Poor diet, stress, nutrient deficiencies, improper eating habits, poor chewing and overeating can all contribute an insufficiency of digestive juices.
Symptoms
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Belching
- Gas
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Symptoms of nutrient deficiencies
- Discomfort after eating
- Slow digestive process
- Cravings
Diagnosis
Tests are available but diagnosis is often based on symptom analysis and client history.
Treatment
Eating habits such as sitting down, taking time to eat slowly, chewing thoroughly, avoiding stress around meal times and supplementing with Hydrochloric acid, digestive enzymes and/or herbs to aid digestion are generally recommended.