The most common cause of constant phlegm in your throat
Dr. Eric Berg
Stomach acid plays a vital role in the breakdown and digestion of foods and is the body’s first-line defense against invading microbes.
Low stomach acid, or hypochlorhydria, is a common issue that can significantly impact digestive health and has been linked to excessive mucus production, particularly in individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
Although it’s widely believed that reflux is caused by excessive stomach acid, research published in Integrative Medicine suggests that insufficient acid can impair the closure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), triggering the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus or larynx.1
“If the valve at the top of your stomach doesn’t sense enough acidity, it may fail to close properly, allowing stomach content to rise into the throat, which can trigger mucus production,” explains Dr. Berg.
Additionally, low stomach acid levels can result in incomplete digestion and the formation of gas bubbles that increase the pressure within the stomach. This can also cause the reflux of stomach content, including hydrochloric acid, into the esophagus, throat, and vocal cord regions.
While the stomach has a specialized lining that protects against the strong acidity of stomach acid, the delicate tissues of the upper respiratory tract are very susceptible to acid-related damage.
When the esophagus is exposed to hydrochloric acid, it responds with excessive mucus production to form a protective barrier against the concentrated acid of stomach content.
Unfortunately, common signs of low stomach acid, including bloating, gas, reflux, and belching, are often misdiagnosed as excessive stomach acid and managed with antacids and ACE inhibitors.
These pharmaceuticals block stomach acid production, which may worsen digestive issues, reflux, and chronic mucus production.
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