Assessing Stomach Acid: The Baking Soda Stomach Acidity Test

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Assessing Stomach Acid

One of the many things the stomach does when we digest food is produce hydrochloric
acid (HCl). This stomach acid helps with the breaking down and digesting of protein, but
is also important when it comes to absorbing essential vitamins and minerals, like B12,
iron, and calcium to name a few.

Heartburn, acid reflux, and bloating are often thought to be cause by too much stomach
acid, also known as hyperchlorrhydria. As a result, people with these complaints are
often given Proton Pump Inhibitors (also known as PPIs), which decrease stomach acid
production and consequently also reduce the ability to digest and absorb vital nutrients.

However, these same symptoms are caused by LOW stomach acid in a surprisingly
high number of people. The underproduction of stomach acid causes food to hang out
in the stomach longer, resulting in increased pressure and increased possibility of the
acid-food mix squirting back up into the very sensitive esophagus. The breakdown of
food is also compromised when acid levels are low, and as a result symptoms like
cramping, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation can arise.

The Baking Soda Stomach Acidity Test


The baking soda test is similar to the classic volcano science experiment, where you
add vinegar to baking soda and “voila”, you have an erupting volcano. The idea is to
ingest baking soda on an empty stomach and if there is sufficient acid it will erupt, thus
increasing the pressure in your stomach and causing you to burp. If stomach acid is
less than ideal, there will be a delayed burp or no reaction at all. It is a very non-
scientific estimation, but only costs $3 and can give you an idea if further investigation
into stomach acid levels is necessary.

If you find you may have low stomach acid, do not discontinue any medication, including
PPI’s unless under the supervision of a physician. PPI’s cause dependency over a
relatively short amount of time, and discontinuation can result in rebound acid secretion
which can be dangerous and cause damage the lining of your digestive tract.

Dr. Stephanie Cordes, ND


328 Woolwich St Guelph 519-835-5215 www.drcordes.com
Instructions: The Baking SodaTest
To be done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach

Ingredients:
• Baking soda (new or recently opened)
• Water
• Pen or pencil for recording

Procedure:
1. Dissolve 1/4 tsp baking soda into 8 oz of water
2. Drink the water relatively quickly
3. Time and write down how long it takes until your first burp (if over 5 minutes, record
as “over 5 min”)
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for 5 days in a row, at the same time every day.

Day Time Until First Burp

Interpretation:
• Under 2 minutes: you may have normal stomach acidity
• 2-5 minutes: you may have low-normal activity
• Over 5 minutes: you may have low stomach acidity (hypochlorhydria)

Please note: all material and information contained in this document is for educational purposes only and
does not mean to replace or augment any advice or consultation provided by a licensed health care
practitioner or physician

Dr. Stephanie Cordes, ND


328 Woolwich St Guelph 519-835-5215 www.drcordes.com

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