By naturopath Margaret Jasinska

Did you know that long term use of stomach acid blocking drugs increases the risk of gallstones? Antacids, especially proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor antagonists impair proper gallbladder contraction and in time this can lead to stone formation.

Stomach acid suppressing medications can cause the gallbladder to contract less forcefully, reducing its ability to empty bile completely. This means bile can stay in the gallbladder longer, encouraging the formation of sludge and stones. Sludge is usually a forerunner to stones.

A study from the UK Biobank found that regular use of proton pump inhibitors was associated with a 22 percent higher risk of gallstones, while H2 receptor antagonists were associated with a 16 percent higher risk. Common brand names of proton pump inhibitors are Losec, Somac, Nexium, Pariet and Zoton. H2 receptor antagonists are less commonly prescribed. Common brand names include Tazac, Nizac, Pepzan and Ausfam.

The symptoms of gallbladder problems and acid reflux can be similar. Both can cause abdominal bloating, nausea and upper abdominal discomfort, especially after a fatty meal.

Stomach acid is your friend

The cells of your stomach produce hydrochloric acid and the digestive enzyme called pepsin. Stomach acid and the enzyme pepsin are especially important for breaking down protein into its building blocks, called amino acids. It is also necessary for mineral absorption. Your stomach cells produce a type of molecule called intrinsic factor, which is critical for vitamin B12 absorption lower down in your small intestine.

When the acidic contents of your stomach make their way into the first part of your small intestine (called the duodenum), the acidity sends signals to your pancreas, for it to release digestive enzymes. Signals are also sent to your gallbladder, triggering it to release bile into your small intestine. The presence of fat in your small intestine also acts as a trigger for bile release.

So you can see that if your stomach is not producing optimal levels of acid, it creates problems further down your digestive tract, as your pancreas and gallbladder will then not function optimally.

Symptoms of gallbladder problems

The most common signs and symptoms of gallbladder dysfunction include:

• Indigestion, particularly after rich fatty meals or dairy products.
• Abdominal bloating or a feeling of excessive fullness after meals.
• Reflux or heartburn.
• Diarrhoea or loose, urgent stools after some foods.
• Abdominal cramps or other pain after a meal.
• Discomfort behind the right shoulder blade.
• Moody, irritable disposition.
• Low tolerance to alcohol
• Bad breath and coated tongue

You may experience some or all of the above symptoms to varying degrees if you have gallbladder disease. Obviously these symptoms can also be caused by several different health problems, so please always consult your own doctor if you experience any symptoms.