“I have reflux,” says the patient. “Take omeprazole,” answers the doctor. This common practice begins one of the latest medical distribution videos from the Dr. Isabel Viñasan expert in the field of supplementation, metabolism and hormones, and who has over 270,000 followers on her account. instagram where he provides health and wellness advice.
The doctor claims that this reflux and heavy digestion are sometimes caused by lack of acid and not precisely because of its surplus.
The role of acid in our body is essential for several vital functions. First, hydrochloric acid in the stomach is essential digestion, breaking down food and eliminating pathogens.
In addition, the acid-base balance in the blood is crucial for the proper functioning of enzymes and metabolic processes regulated by the kidneys and lungs.
During metabolism, fatty acids are broken down to produce energy, with the Krebs cycle being an important pathway in this process. Carbon dioxide in turn helps transport carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNAare essential for genetic inheritance and protein synthesis.
In addition, lactic acid enters the skin hydrochloric acid in the stomach They create barriers that protect against infections. These examples highlight the importance of acids for our daily health.
«Lack of acid reduces the absorption of vitamins»
For this reason, Dr. Viñas emphasizes that omeprazole is not always the solution: “Acid is needed to digest proteins, without acid enzymes are not activated “They take care of it,” he explains in his video.
“In addition, the lack of acid reduces the absorption of vitamin B12, iron, vitamin C, magnesium…” adds the doctor and communicator.
For all these reasons, the video description provides a list of supplements that can replace omeprazole and maintain adequate acid levels:
«Supplements to gradually replace omeprazole and derivatives and improve acid production: Betaine HCL+pepsin, mastic gumDGL extract (does not raise blood pressure because it is deglirrhizinated), zinc-L-carnosine (NOT “normal” zinc), slippery elm and/or aloe vera. Although digestive enzymes do not directly help reflux, they can “cause reflux”. It helps for the first few weeks,” Viñas writes in a video that has almost 6,000 likes.