Adequate stomach acid, otherwise called hydochloric acid or HCl, is crucial for good digestion, gut health, optimal energy and nutrient absorption. Age and stress are both major factors in decreasing stomach acid. If stomach acid is not strong enough, food is not broken down into small enough particles to be effectively digested. Food sits in our stomach longer than it should, causing symptoms of indigestion, GERD, gas and burping. Since we do not digest well, we do not extract and absorb the nutrients we need. Our body begins to bog down with deficiencies and this can create a vicious cycle of stress or age decreasing HCl, which results in faltering nutrient absorption, which in turn creates more stress in the body and further decreases HCl.
One strategy for increasing stomach acid is to make home made pickled ginger with fresh squeezed lemon juice and sea salt,. Chew on this mixture before meals to stimulate HCl production. Taking a swig of Apple Cider Vinegar before your meals is another thing that can help this process as well. You can also try to minimize water intake before your meals so you don't dilute the stomach acid you do have, and consider juicing fresh celery first thing in the morning. These strategies can help you rebuild the HCl production.
When stomach acid is sufficient, it will greatly help you digest your food and absorb more nutrients so that you have all the fuel you need to feel energized and healthy.
You can find a pickled ginger recipe and more info at
https://thewholejourney.com/stomach-acid-balance/