Could Digestive Issues Be the Root Cause of Your Depression?

Healthy Mind
When we think of depression, we often look at external stressors or brain chemistry. However, did you know that a root cause of depression could stem from your digestive system? 🧠

Your stomach plays a vital role in your mental health. When stomach acid is too low—a condition called hypochlorhydria—it disrupts digestion and impacts your ability to produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate your mood. Without enough stomach acid, your body can’t break down protein into amino acids, the building blocks needed to create these critical brain chemicals. This can result in anxiety, brain fog, and depression.


What Causes Low Stomach Acid?
Low stomach acid is more common than you might think, and several factors can contribute to it:
  • Chronic stress 🧠 – Stress weakens digestion and stomach acid production.
  • Poor diet 🍔 – Processed, nutrient-poor foods make digestion harder.
  • Aging ⏳ – As we age, stomach acid production naturally decreases.
  • H. pylori infections 🦠 – A common bacterial infection that disrupts stomach function.
  • Overuse of antacids & PPIs 💊 – Medications to reduce acid can actually make the problem worse over time.

Why Is Stomach Acid So Important?
Stomach acid is essential for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients like B12, zinc, and iron—all of which are critical for energy, immunity, and overall well-being. Without sufficient stomach acid:
  • Digestion suffers – Undigested food causes bloating, discomfort, and indigestion.
  • Nutrient deficiencies develop – Low levels of key nutrients weaken your body and brain.
  • Gut imbalances occur – Harmful bacteria can overgrow, leading to issues like SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
  • Mood disorders arise – Poor digestion affects neurotransmitter production, resulting in fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and depression.
Stomach acid isn’t just about digestion—it’s about your gut, brain, and immune system working in harmony.

How to Improve Stomach Acid Naturally
The good news is that low stomach acid can be improved with the right approach! Here’s where to start:

Supplements to Support Stomach Acid
  • Betaine HCl with Pepsin – Helps increase stomach acid levels naturally.
  • Digestive enzymes – Support the breakdown of food and nutrient absorption.
  • Apple cider vinegar – Take diluted apple cider vinegar before meals to aid digestion.
    (Note: Always work with a qualified provider before starting supplements.)

Simple Lifestyle Changes
  • Chew your food thoroughly – Digestion begins in your mouth.
  • Eat nutrient-dense meals – Choose whole, unprocessed foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • Avoid drinking too much water with meals – This can dilute stomach acid.
  • Manage stress 🧘‍♀️ – Practice deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation to support your digestive system.
  • Stop late-night eating – Give your body time to rest and digest before sleep.

Addressing low stomach acid is essential to restoring balance to your digestion, gut health, and mood. If you’re struggling with bloating, brain fog, fatigue, or symptoms of anxiety and depression, it may be time to dig deeper and uncover the root cause.

At Functional Mind LLC, we take a whole-body approach to help you heal from the inside out. By identifying and addressing issues like low stomach acid, nutrient deficiencies, and gut imbalances, we can guide you toward better digestion, improved mental clarity, and a more vibrant life.

Schedule a FREE Discovery Call with Dr. Achina Stein to discuss your symptoms and create a personalized plan for healing. 🔗 Book your call HERE  or 📞Call us at: 401-270-4541.

Don’t let low stomach acid hold you back. Start healing today!