Achlorhydria and hypochlorhydria

September 20, 2005 by Linda Lazarides
Filed under Database

Also known as hypochlorhydria, this describes a reduced ability to produce hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Since hydrochloric acid is a pre-requisite for protein digestion, and is also required to stimulate the next (pancreatic) stage of digestion, achlorhydria may result in significantly impaired digestion and absorption.

Dysbiosis and bacterial overgrowth of the stomach and small intestine may occur in achlorhydric individuals since hydrochloric acid is normally responsible for destroying micro-organisms in the stomach.

Information compiled by Linda Lazarides
Naturopathic Nutritionist, Author, Educator