Managing Excess Stomach Acid: When to Eat and What to Choose

Excess stomach acid (asymptomatic)

I have been feeling excessive gastric acid secretion and mild gastrointestinal discomfort for the past three to four days.
It feels somewhat similar to hunger, but it's different.
After visiting the outpatient clinic, the doctor diagnosed it as excessive gastric acid secretion and prescribed medication to suppress gastric acid for three days.
During the medication period, everything was normal, but after finishing the medication, the symptoms slightly improved, only to return the next day.
1.
I would like to know if I should eat something in the middle of the night when I feel gastric acid in my stomach (not hunger, but similar to it)?
2.
I am concerned that eating might cause more gastric acid secretion, but not eating also makes me somewhat uncomfortable, affecting my sleep.
If I should eat, what kind of food should I consume?
3.
I mainly want to understand whether eating food when experiencing excessive gastric acid will worsen or alleviate the discomfort.
Thank you.

R, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/05

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is recommended to maintain a normal diet while minimizing the intake of acidic, sweet, and spicy foods.
If experiencing acid reflux at night, drinking some milk or taking antacids may help.

Reply Date: 2021/07/05

More Info

Managing excess stomach acid can be a challenging experience, especially when it leads to discomfort and affects your daily life. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing symptoms related to increased gastric acid secretion, which can manifest as a sensation of hunger, discomfort, or even a burning feeling in the stomach. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your questions:
1. Should you eat something if you feel stomach acid at night?
If you find yourself feeling discomfort from stomach acid late at night, it is generally advisable to eat something light rather than going to bed on an empty stomach. An empty stomach can sometimes exacerbate the sensation of acidity, leading to discomfort that can disrupt your sleep. However, the key is to choose foods that are gentle on the stomach and less likely to trigger further acid production.
2. What to eat if you decide to eat?
When considering what to eat, opt for bland, low-acid foods that are easy to digest. Some good options include:
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be soothing and filling without being harsh on your stomach.

- Bananas: They are low in acidity and can help coat the stomach lining.

- Rice or plain pasta: These are bland carbohydrates that can help absorb excess acid.

- Non-citrus fruits: Apples or pears can be good choices.

- Low-fat yogurt: This can provide probiotics, which may help with digestion.

- Milk: A small glass of milk can temporarily neutralize stomach acid, but be cautious as it may also stimulate acid production later.

Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, which can aggravate your symptoms.

3. Will eating worsen or alleviate discomfort?
Eating can have different effects depending on the food choices and the individual’s response. In some cases, eating can help alleviate discomfort by neutralizing stomach acid and providing a buffer. However, if you consume foods that are irritating or stimulate more acid production, it can worsen your symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor how your body reacts to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly.

In addition to dietary changes, consider the following lifestyle modifications to manage excess stomach acid:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can help prevent the stomach from becoming too full and reduce acid production.

- Avoid lying down immediately after eating: Give your body time to digest before reclining, as this can help prevent acid reflux.

- Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day can help dilute stomach acid.

- Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, so incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation may be beneficial.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation or adjustments to your treatment plan. Remember, managing excess stomach acid often requires a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, medication. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or treatment regimen.

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