Can low levels of gastrin 17 lead to indigestion

Low levels of gastrin 17 may lead to indigestion. Gastrin-17 is a hormone secreted by G cells in the gastric antrum, which mainly stimulates gastric acid secretion and gastric mucosal growth. Abnormal levels of this hormone may affect gastrointestinal function. When gastrin 17 is low, gastric acid secretion may decrease, leading to a decrease in food digestion efficiency. insufficient stomach acid can affect protein breakdown and mineral absorption, and may cause digestive symptoms such as postprandial fullness, early satiety, belching, etc. Long term insufficient gastric acid secretion may also increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections, as gastric acid has a bactericidal effect. Some patients may have decreased appetite or poor nutrient absorption, and it is necessary to exclude organic diseases such as atrophic gastritis through gastroscopy examination. In rare cases, low levels of gastrin 17 are associated with autoimmune gastritis, where gastric mucosal atrophy may lead to a deficiency of endogenous factors, which in turn can cause impaired absorption of vitamin B12. These patients may experience pernicious anemia or neurological symptoms, and need to be diagnosed through serological testing and gastric mucosal biopsy. Long term use of certain drugs such as proton pump inhibitors may also feedback inhibit gastrin secretion, but it can usually be restored after discontinuation.

It is recommended that individuals with persistent symptoms of indigestion undergo gastrin 17 testing combined with gastric function assessment to avoid self medication with acid suppressants to mask the condition. In daily life, one can adopt a diet of eating small, frequent meals and chewing slowly to reduce high-fat food intake and lower gastrointestinal burden. If diagnosed with gastric mucosal atrophy, regular monitoring is necessary, and if necessary, vitamin B12 or digestive enzyme preparations should be supplemented under the guidance of a doctor.