Reflux
The misunderstood condition. Acid reflux (GERD) is usually blamed on too much stomach acid, but is often caused by too little. Low acid leads to fermentation, gas pressure, and LES relaxation. PPIs suppress symptoms but worsen the underlying problem. Finding and fixing root causes offers lasting relief.
Root Causes of Reflux
Low Stomach Acid
Food sits and ferments. Gas pressure forces LES open. Counter-intuitive but common.
H. pylori
Reduces acid production. Present in many reflux cases. Test and treat.
Hiatal Hernia
Stomach pushes through diaphragm. Disrupts LES function. Physical cause.
SIBO
Bacterial overgrowth creates gas. Pressure pushes acid up. Connected conditions.
Food Triggers
Chocolate, coffee, alcohol relax LES. Fatty foods delay emptying. Individual variation.
Obesity
Increases abdominal pressure. Pushes stomach contents upward.
The PPI Problem
Symptom Suppression
PPIs reduce acid, stopping burning. But don't fix why reflux happens.
Nutrient Depletion
B12, magnesium, iron, calcium need acid for absorption. Long-term risks.
Increased SIBO
Acid kills bacteria. Without it, overgrowth occurs.
Rebound
Stopping PPIs causes acid rebound. Creates dependency. Taper slowly.
Addressing Root Causes
HCl Support
Betaine HCl with meals if low acid confirmed. Start low, titrate up.
Treat H. pylori
Test via breath or stool. Treat if positive. Often resolves reflux.
Address SIBO
Treat bacterial overgrowth. Reduces gas pressure. Connected condition.
Dietary Changes
Identify triggers. Don't lie down after eating. Smaller meals.
DGL Licorice
Soothes and protects lining. Helps healing. Chew before meals.
Elevate Head
Gravity helps at night. 6-8 inch elevation. Not just pillows—wedge or blocks.