Acids are important!

DId you know, Weak stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) significantly increases with age, affecting a large portion of older adults, with some studies suggesting over 30% of those over 60 are often linked to conditions like atrophic gastritis and H. pylori infection, rather than aging itself being the direct cause. This change the GI environment is impacting digestion and nutrient absorption in the elderly. 

Prevalence by Age Group

• Under 60: Low stomach acid is relatively uncommon, affecting less than 2% of the population.

• Over 60: Prevalence jumps to around 5% to 12%, with some reports indicating over 30% of people in this age group have reduced acid.

• Over 80: The rate increases further, with some estimates showing it affects about 12% of this group, and even higher in postmenopausal women. 

Why It Happens

• Atrophic Gastritis: This thinning of the stomach lining, often caused by chronic inflammation, is a major contributor and becomes more common with age, leading to reduced acid production.

• H. pylori Infection: A high prevalence of this bacterial infection in older adults is a key driver of atrophic gastritis and subsequent low acid.

• Aging (Indirectly): While aging itself might not directly reduce acid secretion, it increases the likelihood of developing conditions (like gastritis) that do.

• Consequences

  • Poor Digestion: Difficulty breaking down proteins and absorbing nutrients like vitamin B12.

  • Bacterial Overgrowth: Increased risk of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).

  • Food Sensitivities: Greater sensitivity to foods previously tolerated, such as dairy, spicy, or greasy items