Is your stomach working as it should? This everyday ingredient could put your mind at ease.
Do you feel that your stomach is not working as it should? You may be suffering from hypochlorhydria, a condition that causes stomach discomfort to 30% of the Spanish population and often goes unnoticed. Detecting it is easier than you think. There are preliminary tools that can provide clues to this condition, such as the baking soda test. This humble ingredient, which you probably have in some corner of the cupboard, can help you decipher the state of your stomach. Although we usually use it for baking or to relieve heartburn, it also serves as a tool to evaluate our digestive health. In this article we will show you how to test for hypochlorhydria, a disorder characterized by insufficient production of hydrochloric acid that can cause discomfort such as heavy digestion, reflux and even compromise the absorption of essential nutrients, affecting your quality of life. How do you know if this problem could be affecting you? Take this simple test below, it may give you the first clues.
The bicarbonate test step by step
The bicarbonate test is simple and accessible, but it must be performed correctly to obtain reliable results. Here's how it works:
- What you need: one teaspoon of baking soda, 200 ml of water and a watch to keep track of time.
- How to do it: On an empty stomach, mix the baking soda in the glass of water and drink it immediately. It is important that you have not ingested food or drink for at least 8 hours before testing.
- What to watch for: Pay attention to when you first burp. If it occurs within the first 2 minutes, it is a sign that your stomach is producing an adequate amount of hydrochloric acid. If it does not occur, or if it takes longer than that, it could indicate hypochlorhydria.
When bicarbonate mixes with hydrochloric acid in the stomach, it releases carbon dioxide (CO2), which causes burping. If the acidity level is low, this chemical reaction does not occur with the same speed or intensity.
* Important: This test is only a preliminary tool and should not be interpreted, nor does it replace a clinical diagnosis or the advice of a specialist. If you experience recurring discomfort, such as bloating, slow digestion or reflux, consult a physician or digestive health specialist. They will be able to perform more accurate tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Hypochlorhydria: causes, symptoms and consequences
Hypochlorhydria can arise for a variety of reasons, including aging, Helicobacter pylori infections or prolonged use of medications such as antacids. Its main symptoms include:
- Slow and heavy digestion
- Abdominal bloating and gas
- Nutritional deficiencies, such as anemia due to lack of iron or vitamin B12.
- Gastroesophageal reflux
In the long term, this condition can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections due to reduced acid protection against microorganisms.
The role of the physician and the steps to be taken
If you suspect you may have hypochlorhydria, see a specialist. A physician may perform tests such as determining gastric pH or testing for the presence of Helicobacter pylori. Depending on the results, treatment may include dietary changes, hydrochloric acid or digestive enzyme supplements, as well as correction of nutritional deficiencies.
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