Acid Stomach and Gas Causes

Acid stomach and gas are the byproducts of several unhealthy eating patterns, which disturb healthy digestion. A lack of digestive enzymes leading to low acidity, poor dietary choices and problematic food combinations may all have an affect on the digestive process. Being aware of the causes of acid stomach may help conscientious individuals relieve and prevent this condition.

Artificial Sweeteners

According to Columbia University's Health Internet Service, Go Ask Alice, all artificial sweeteners have laxative effects causing gas and diarrhea in certain people. In particular, sucralose, or Splenda, metabolizes into nitrogen gas as a byproduct. Food additives such as artificial sweeteners should be used with care and discontinued if symptoms arise.

Food Combinations

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Various foods digest at different rates and when they are eaten at the same time, can cause problems with digestion resulting in acidity and gas. Fruits, vegetables and other carbohydrates digest more quickly than do proteins and fats, according to the Digestive Health column from the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. In the dietary system known as Food Combining, various foods are consumed in the order in which they digest; starting with those easiest and quickest to digest such as liquids and then fruits followed by the denser foods like fats and proteins. Using this system of eating may be inconvenient, but for those suffering from acid stomach and gas, it may be helpful in normalizing digestion and reducing health problems.

Vitamin C

Although vitamin C is highly touted for its ability to act as an antioxidant and other healing properties, too much of this vitamin may cause digestive problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin C is generally considered to be safe taken in high doses of more than 2,000mg daily because it is water soluble and excess is excreted in the urine; however, some people experience acid stomach, heartburn, bloating, gas and diarrhea from taking more than their systems can handle. If side effects are experienced, the quantity should be reduced or the vitamin stopped entirely and a health practitioner should be consulted.

Low Stomach Acidity

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Although it sounds confusing and paradoxical, a lack of the proper types and amounts of naturally occurring stomach acids may contribute to cases of indigestion, heartburn, acid stomach, gas and bloating, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Certain enzymes are necessary for proper digestion and when these are not present or are in quantities too low, stomach acidity is affected. If there is not enough stomach acid present for proper digestion, the food remains in the stomach for too long a period, essentially rotting, causing gas and indigestion. Using supplements such as betain hydrochloride to stimulate stomach acids is one possible solution to this problem; however, it should not be used unless under the supervision of a medical professional.