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Your gut health plays a vital role in your overall well-being—impacting everything from digestion to mental health. A balanced gut microbiome keeps you energized, disease-free, and thriving.

But how do you know if your gut is healthy?

According to digital creator and biohacker Tanya Malik Chawla, you can perform a simple one-minute gut test at home to assess your stomach acid levels.

How to Take the One-Minute Gut Test?

Chawla explains that stomach acid imbalance—whether too high or low—can lead to heartburn, bloating, and poor digestion.

Here’s the test:
Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water.
Drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
Time how long it takes for you to burp.

How Does This Test Work?

Baking soda (alkali) reacts with stomach acid to produce carbon dioxide gas, which leads to burping.

What your burping time indicates:

  • Burp within 2-3 minutes → Normal stomach acid levels
  • Delayed burping (beyond 5 minutes) or no burping → Possible low stomach acid
  • Immediate burping → Excess stomach acid

Chawla warns: "Low stomach acid causes food to remain undigested, leading to fermentation and acid reflux (GERD)."

Is This Test Accurate?

While this test is not a standardized medical diagnosis, it can give a rough indication of stomach acid levels.

Limitations:

  • Some people burp naturally even before eating, which can affect results.
  • Burping may also be caused by:
    Swallowing air while eating
    Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
    Eating too quickly

If you experience consistent digestive issues, it's best to consult a doctor for professional testing.

How to Improve Your Gut Health Naturally

If you suspect gut issues, try these science-backed tips to improve digestion and balance your microbiome:

Lower Your Stress Levels

Chronic stress releases hormones that disrupt gut function.

Reduce stress by:
Meditation
Daily walks
Massage therapy
Limiting alcohol & smoking

Improve Your Sleep

Poor sleep impacts gut bacteria, leading to digestive problems and inflammation.

Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep and seek medical help for insomnia.

Eat Slowly & Chew Well

Chewing properly aids digestion, prevents bloating, and reduces obesity risk.

Take smaller bites and avoid rushed meals.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Choose clean, filtered water for better bacterial balance.

Improve Your Diet

Junk food and processed meals can disrupt gut bacteria.

Focus on:
Home-cooked meals
Fiber-rich foods
Probiotic-rich yogurt & fermented foods

Listen to Your Gut!

Your gut health directly affects digestion, immunity, and even mental well-being. Taking small lifestyle steps—like better sleep, mindful eating, and stress reduction—can lead to huge improvements in your overall health.

Try the 1-minute gut test today and start prioritizing your gut health!

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