The Evolving Wellness Podcast with Sarah Kleiner Wellness

Why You Feel Worse When You Start Eating Better | What’s Actually Happening in Your Gut With Steve Wright

Feb 25, 2026

Steve Wright, a gut-health practitioner and supplement founder, explains why switching to higher-protein or restrictive diets can upset digestion. Short sentences cover low stomach acid, how HCL and enzymes help with nutrient unlocking, signs your digestion isn’t ready, safe HCL testing, and practical enzyme dosing for smoother diet transitions.

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INSIGHT

Fixing Gut Symptoms Starts With The Stomach

If the stomach step fails, downstream fixes like probiotics or fiber won't solve malabsorption.
Unfolding in the stomach is required so enzymes and intestinal processes can access amino acids and minerals.

ADVICE

Recognize Low Stomach Acid Symptoms

Check for signs of low stomach acid like food feeling like a 'brick', prolonged fullness, and burping after meals.
If you crave steak but it makes you feel unwell, low acid may be the reason rather than the food itself.

ANECDOTE

Steve's Long HCL Course And Successful Wean

Steve needed seven HCL capsules daily for about 18 months before sensing a burning cue and tapering down.
He eventually weaned off HCL as minerals and gastric function recovered, now using it only when stressed.

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Sarah Kleiner and Steve Wright break down why high-protein diets can cause digestive issues when your gut isn’t ready. They explain how low stomach acid impacts protein digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health. Learn the common signs of low stomach acid like bloating, heaviness, and trouble digesting meat. They also discuss HCL and digestive enzymes as tools to support better digestion and smoother diet transitions

Other Episodes with Steve - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBszj9nzso6jOadgcYpqIPbRYvERYK4q0

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Healthy Gut Supplements- discount automatically applied or use code Sarah15:

Holozyme Link: https://healthygut.com/holozyme-now/?rstr=811&coupon_code=Sarah15

HCL Guard Link: https://healthygut.com/hcl-guard-now/?rstr=811&coupon_code=Sarah15

Tributyrin X: https://healthygut.com/tributyrin-x-now/?rstr=811&coupon_code=Sarah15

Magnesium: https://healthygut.com/magnesiumhp-now/?rstr=811&coupon_code=Sarah15

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