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I must admit, I was never the one to exercise much or go to the gym. A lot of it had to do with time. Working full-time (lifting patients) and being a full-time college student is not easy, as it is not for a majority of us juggling so many things today.

Two years ago I was in a very bad place with my health. I was struggling with managing my Acid Reflux and I also was struggling with my physical health. In September 2015 I obtained a neck injury after going indoor rock climbing with a friend. After that for the next year and a half my physical health was not the same . It felt as though everyday my physical health was declining. I could not function due to having headaches almost every week, I suffered with neck pain , back pain, and chest pains. Later on I learned that the chest pain was a condition called costochondritis which is an inflammation of the joints as the breastbone which can be aggravated by any strenuous activity .

As each day went on I felt weaker and weaker and this was when I discovered the importance of physical health. If I had paid more attention to my physical health by exercising or working out I would be stronger and have more strength to not obtain injuries while doing activities.

If I can stress one thing I say do not take your physical health for granted.

The Stomach contains what is known as Gastric Acid, Gastric Juices, or Stomach Acids. The reason why we have all these acids in our stomach is due to the fact that acids are responsible for breaking down the foods we put into our bodies. Foods such as Carbohydrates, Fats, and Proteins. The stomach acids do not work alone, certain enzymes are also needed to break down the foods we eat. (Digestive Enzymes to be exact!) Digestive enzymes are made in the pancreas, stomach, small intestine, and salivary glands.

What are Enzymes?

They are proteins
They help to “speed up” chemical reactions

What are the different Stomach Acids?

Hydrochloric Acid (HCL)
Potassium Chloride (KCL)
Sodium Chloride (Nacl)

So when it comes to Acid Relux these acids can be damaging even though these acids are need by the body.

Two important proteins when we think about Acid Reflux are Pepsinogen and pepsin. Pepsinogen is an inactive protein that is found in the lining of the stomach walls. It becomes activated when digestion begins and enters into the stomach. Once in the stomach Pepsinogen is mixed with Hydrochloric Acid where it then becomes pepsin. Pepsin is highly acidic. That is why when we have Reflux that Reflux contents contain pepsin and that is what causes damage to the esophagus and the throat (for people with LPR).

So the next time you think about Acid Reflux think about what are all these acids and why do we need these acids.

Why is physical health so important?

Where Does The “Acid” Come From in Acid Reflux?