Should You Be Worried About These Antacid Side Effects?

Before we go into the side effects of antacids it's important to gain an understanding about what they are and what they can do.

Antacids are used in the treatment of acid reflux or GERD. Their alkaline properties are designed to neutralise stomach acid. They should not be confused with other GERD/Acid reflux treatments such as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI's) and H2 blockers. These two types work differently as they effect the stomachs secretion of acid.

It's important to point out those antacids, PPI's and H2 blockers I've just mentioned will not cure or fix your condition - all they do is suppress the symptoms. By suppressing stomach acid they can temporarily ease the pain, however you need to keep using them.

The fact is, antacids should not be used for more than a period of 2 weeks, and this instruction is often emphasised on the packaging.

Adverse Effects Of Acid Suppression

The suppression of acid can eventually lead to a number of health complications. It turns out that stomach acid does more than prepare food for digestion. It plays a vital role in helping the absorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

For example, vitamin B12 needs to be absorbed in the stomach. With a lack of acid this can lead to the malabsorption of B12 and many other vitamins. Vitamin B12 is essential for the body's metabolism as well as maintaining the functioning of the central nervous system.

Stomach acid also kills off any bacteria contained within the food we eat. Obviously with lower levels of acid the risk of food poisoning and bacterial infections such as E-coli increase.

Adverse Effects On The Digestive System

But most importantly, is how the overuse of antacids can disturb the micro bacterial balance of the digestive system. The key component, that ensures the health of your digestive system and your whole body, is the beneficial bacteria or micro flora that lines the walls of your intestines.

There are literally billions of these microscopic bacteria. They're like a protective wall that keeps out disease causing bacteria and toxins from overrunning your body. They also assist in the functions of absorption and elimination and if that wasn't enough they also support your body's immune system.

But here's the thing, these bacteria can easily be destroyed by the overuse of antacids and antibiotics. When this happens the bad bacteria and the fungal infections such as Candida have a free reign to spread and cause havoc within your digestive system.

Once these bad guys take over there begins a gradual breakdown of the body's digestive health beginning with indigestion, bloating gas, diarrhea and constipation. This eventually progresses to more chronic conditions of ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease.

Other antacid side effects can include;

繚 Diarrhea

繚 Nausea

繚 Joint pain

繚 Itchy skin

繚 Rectal bleeding

繚 Flu like symptoms

繚 Fatigue

繚 Constipation

繚 Swelling around the feet and ankles.