Could Your Diet Be Causing Low Stomach Acid?

Many people blame heartburn, bloating, or indigestion on too much stomach acid—but what if the real issue is too little?

Low stomach acid, also known as hypochlorhydria, is more common than you might think. It can contribute to poor digestion, nutrient deficiencies, gut imbalances, and chronic fatigue. And here's the surprising part: your diet could be playing a major role.

Let’s explore the types of diets that can lead to low stomach acid—and how to support healthy digestion naturally.

What Is Stomach Acid and Why Is It Important?

Stomach acid (hydrochloric acid or HCl) is essential for:

• Breaking down protein

• Activating digestive enzymes

• Killing harmful pathogens

• Assisting with nutrient absorption (especially B12, iron, calcium, and magnesium)

Without adequate stomach acid, digestion slows down and food may sit in the stomach longer than it should, leading to bloating, belching, and that heavy, uncomfortable feeling after meals. Check out this blog article that goes into more detail in regards to symptoms of low stomach acid.

Diets That Can Lead to Low Stomach Acid

1. Low Protein Diets

Protein is a major trigger for stomach acid production. If you're not eating enough—especially complete proteins from animal sources—your body may start producing less acid over time. This is common with unbalanced vegan or vegetarian diets that lack protein variety, as well as picky eaters.

2. High-Carbohydrate, Low-Fat Diets

Diets dominated by refined carbs like pasta, pastries, and sugary snacks may dysregulate blood sugar and promote inflammation. Over time, this can impair the body's ability to produce digestive juices, including stomach acid.

3. Highly Processed Diets

Processed foods are typically low in key nutrients like zinc, B vitamins, and chloride—these are the very nutrients required for healthy acid production. Plus, artificial additives and preservatives can irritate the digestive lining and dull the body’s natural digestive responses. Check out this blog post on the power of nutrient density, the foods you eat help make every cell in your body! Choose wisely!

4. Very Low Calorie Diets

Eating too few calories (especially long-term) can signal to your body that it's in a stress state, slowing metabolism and reducing digestive secretions. This is common in crash diets or disordered eating patterns.

5. Frequent Snacking or Grazing

Constantly eating without giving the digestive system time to rest may blunt your body’s natural hunger and digestive signals, including acid production.

6. Low Salt Diets

Stomach acid is made from sodium chloride—aka salt. If you’re avoiding salt entirely, you may not be providing your body with the raw materials it needs to make adequate HCl.

Lifestyle Habits That Can Make It Worse

Diet isn't the only factor. These behaviors can also contribute to low stomach acid:

• Chronic stress – shuts down the “rest and digest” response

• Eating in a rush or while distracted – reduces digestive signaling

• Overuse of acid-blocking medications (like PPIs or antacids) – suppresses natural acid production

• Aging – acid production naturally declines with age

How to Support Healthy Stomach Acid Naturally

If you suspect your digestion is sluggish or you're experiencing symptoms like gas, bloating, or nutrient deficiencies, consider these strategies:

✅ Eat balanced meals with quality protein

✅ Include mineral-rich sea salt (if you don’t have high blood pressure)

✅ Eat mindfully—chew thoroughly and sit down for meals

✅ Reduce refined carbs and processed foods

✅ Ensure adequate intake of zinc and B vitamins

✅ Don’t overuse acid-suppressing medications

✅ Talk to a practitioner about bitters or digestive support (like HCl or enzymes)

Low stomach acid might not be the first thing you think of when dealing with digestive discomfort, fatigue, or nutrient deficiencies—but it could be the missing piece you’ve been overlooking.

The good news?

You can support your body’s natural digestive process through simple shifts in how and what you eat. By focusing on whole foods, adequate protein, and the right nutrients, you can rebuild the foundation for better digestion, energy, and overall health.

If you're tired of guessing and want personalized support to uncover what’s really going on, I’m here to help.

Let’s work together to get to the root of your symptoms and build a plan that works for your body. Book your Free 15 minute phone call to apply.

You don’t have to figure it out alone—and you deserve to feel your best.