Hypochlorhydria

What Does It Mean?

• Hypochlorhydria is a condition marked by low levels of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid or HCl), which can lead to impaired digestion and nutrient malabsorption.
• Stomach acid plays a critical role in breaking down proteins, activating digestive enzymes, and absorbing key nutrients such as B12, iron, and magnesium.
• Functional medicine addresses the root causes of hypochlorhydria, including stress, infection, nutritional deficiencies, and gut dysfunction.

How Did We Get Here?

Root Causes & Contributing Factors:

• Chronic Stress: Suppresses stomach acid production by impairing the parasympathetic nervous system.
• H. pylori Infection: Can reduce stomach acid by damaging gastric cells.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Zinc and B vitamins are essential for HCl production.
• Aging: Stomach acid production naturally declines with age.
• Use of Acid Suppressants: Chronic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and antacids leads to decreased acid levels.

Signs & Symptoms:

• Bloating, gas, and indigestion after meals.
• Feeling of fullness or heaviness after eating.
• Nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron, calcium, magnesium).
• Undigested food in stools.
• Increased susceptibility to infections due to reduced stomach acid defense.

Lab Test Findings

The following lab tests help evaluate hypochlorhydria and its underlying causes:

Lab Test Name	Expected Changes	Optimal Range
Albumin	Decreased	4.50-5.00 g/dL
Alkaline Phosphatase	Increased	45.00-100.00 U/L
Anion Gap	Altered	7.00-12.00 mEq/L
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)	Decreased	10.00-16.00 mg/dL
Calcium	Altered	8.90-9.50 mg/dL
Calcium : Phosphorus Ratio	Altered	2.30-3.20
Carbon Dioxide	Altered	25.00-30.00 mEq/L
Globulin	Altered	2.40-2.80 g/dL
Iron, Total	Decreased	85.00-130.00 µg/dL
MCH	Altered	28.00-31.90 pg
MCV	Altered	82.00-89.90 fL
Phosphorus (Phosphate)	Altered	3.00-4.00 mg/dL
Total Iron Binding Capacity	Altered	250.00-350.00 µg/dL
Total Protein	Decreased	6.90-7.4 g/dL
Vitamin D25-OH, Total	Decreased	45-65 ng/mL

How Do We Treat It?

Treatment focuses on restoring optimal stomach acid levels and improving digestion.

Supplement Protocol

Supplement	Function	Dosage & Frequency
Vita-Digestyzyme	Supports digestive enzyme production and acid balance	2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily
Vita-Candid	Helps maintain gut microbiota and prevent microbial overgrowth	2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily
V-Inflamma	Reduces inflammation and supports gut healing	1 capsule without food, daily
Gluta Protect	Enhances gut lining integrity and mucosal barrier	1 scoop of powder without food, daily
Vita-Biotic	Supports gut microbiome balance and immune function	1 capsule without food, daily
Vita-Flux	Promotes vascular health and circulation	2 capsules 20-30 minutes  prior to food, three times daily

Additional Lifestyle Interventions:

• Increase HCl Production: Incorporate apple cider vinegar or digestive bitters before meals.
• Optimize Zinc Intake: Include zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, oysters, and beef.
• Mindful Eating: Encourage relaxation before meals to stimulate stomach acid production.
• Avoid Overuse of Antacids & PPIs: These medications should only be used when medically necessary.
• Support Gut Health: Incorporate probiotics and prebiotic-rich foods to maintain a balanced microbiome.