How do I know if I have too much or too little stomach acid?

[Spangle15]

Not strictly speaking a thyroid issue but one I know effects a lot of us. So I’m hoping for some expertise.

I definitely have some sort of stomach acid issue but without going down the medical investigation route which I really don’t want to do, how do I know of my acid is too high or too low?

My symptoms are - sore throat, post nasal drip but no heartburn or obvious feeling of acid coming up. Fatigue, occasional nausea, slight upset tummy some mornings. I also don’t seem to be absorbing calcium well.

I feel like these symptoms are more low than high but I’m not certain.

Thank you as always.

[Hypopotamus]

I avoid the clutches of the medical profession if I can, but sometimes we need the benefit of tests that we can't do for ourselves. You may have something like a Hiatus Hernia, so getting your GP to refer you for the relevant tests is a good idea.

Too much stomach acid is unlikely. Indigestion, acid reflux etc is usually caused by too little stomach acid. The two things that have helped my stomach issues are Water Kefir (a probiotic that is easily made at home) and apple cider vinegar (with the mother) that I buy from a local farm that makes cider.

Do not take calcium unless it is supplemented by vitamin D and vitamin K2.

[Spangle15 in reply to Hypopotamus]

Thank you so much, that’s really helpful.

[Spangle15 in reply to Hypopotamus]

hello again. Can I just ask how and when you take the apple cider vinegar? Thank you.

[Hypopotamus in reply to Spangle15]

I put a little (I don't measure it) into a glass and top up with water. I have experimented but it doesn't seem to make much difference if I take it 30 minutes before, 15 minutes before, or even with, a meal. In the summer I drink it at other times just because it is a refreshing and healthy cold drink.

[Spangle15 in reply to Hypopotamus]

Thank you so much.

[topaz1]

drmyhill.co.uk/wiki/Hypochl...

This is from Dr Myhill's web site. I am taking apple cider vinegar before each meal. I have no problems with stomach acid (high or low) but my Naturopath said I might not be absorbing my food well so the ACV will put that rith. Hope this helps.

[Spangle15 in reply to topaz1]

Thank you so much, it’s a great help.

[serenfach]

The burp test is a good one. It showed I had low stomach acid which disagreed with the GP who said it was high stomch acid.

I mix a teaspoon of honey with a pudding spoon of cider vinegar, and a drop of warm water and stir for a bit. That way it does not burn on the way down, and it works for me.

[Spangle15 in reply to serenfach]

Thank you. I did the test today and burped once after 3 mins 20 seconds and then at about 7 mins. I’m guessing that means low stomach acid.

[Regenallotment Ambassador]

I did the burp test too and take NAC and ACV and occasionally betaine with pepsin. Look up silent reflux, I was in complete denial until and ENT took a photo of my sore throat and explained hypothyroidism leads to a weaker valve in the top of the stomach and tiny tiny droplets cause, soreness, without any indigestion symptoms, hoarseness, post nasal drip, wheezing at night etc. his solution was raise the head end of the bed a bit. Don’t eat after 7pm he favoured gaviscon but I won’t touch it. I’m aiming for a dose increase as the stomach valve thing apparently improves with optimal T3 and I’m 29% through range. Hope you find your solution 💚🦋💚

[Spangle15 in reply to Regenallotment]

Thank you. My bloods were ok last time unless they’ve gone awry again. I hope you get optimal soon.