Baking Soda Stomach Acid Assessment

Posted by Leanne on Jun 16th, 2010 | no comments

I continue to be amazed at the number of people on acid reflux medications. My question for them – are these medications necessary or are you suffering from a lack of acid in the stomach.

Low Levels of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid or HCL) can be responsible for a number of chronic conditions.
1) HCL converts pesinogen into pepsin which helps to break proteins down more easily.
2) Creates the proper pH in the small intestine to prevent bacterial overgrowths from harmful bacteria.
3) A lack of HCG may cause inflammation and Leaky Gut syndrome.
4) Low HCL may cause chronic candida/yeast conditions as the ph in the small intestine is not where it should be.

Symptoms of too low a level of stomach acid can and will mimic the appearance of too much stomach acid. You need to know where you stand – do you truly have too high a level of HCL or too low a level? It is easy to find out with a baking soda stomach acid assessment.

HCL reacts with baking soda to form Carbon Dioxide and Water. Taking a small amount of baking soda and timing how long it takes for you to belch will give an indication of your stomach acid level.

1. It is best to perform this test in the morning before having anything to eat or drink. Your stomach acid should be at its lowest ph (or most acidic) in the morning.
2. Mix 1/4 tsp of baking soda in 8 ounces of water and drink.
3. Time how long it takes you to burp – no need to time after 5 minutes have passed.

a. if you burp immediately and a lot – your stomach acid level is probably too high.
b. If you burp in 2-3 minutes your acid levels are about right.
c. If it takes 5 minutes or longer to burp, your stomach acid is probably too low.

When I did this test, I finally burped a little bit after 25 minutes. Looks like I need HCL supplementation!

Have a great Day!

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