GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or bile flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. While occasional acid reflux is common, GERD is diagnosed when acid reflux becomes frequent and persistent, causing discomfort and potential damage to the esophageal lining.

At Caring for the Body, we take a functional medicine approach to GERD, identifying root causes rather than simply managing symptoms. By addressing dietary, lifestyle, and physiological factors, we help individuals find long-term relief from GERD and improve digestive health.

Symptoms of GERD

GERD symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen after meals, when lying down, or under stress.

Common Symptoms of GERD:

• Heartburn – A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night
• Acid regurgitation – Sour or bitter-tasting fluid backing up into the throat or mouth
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) – Feeling of food getting stuck in the throat
• Chronic cough – Often mistaken for a respiratory issue, worsened by acid reflux
• Hoarseness or sore throat – Caused by acid irritation of the vocal cords
• Excessive throat clearing – Due to mucus production from irritation
• Feeling of a lump in the throat (Globus sensation) – A persistent tightness or discomfort
• Worsening asthma symptoms – Acid reflux can trigger asthma or make breathing difficulties worse
• Bloating and belching – Related to poor digestion and excessive gas production

If GERD is left untreated, chronic acid exposure can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, or esophageal strictures, which increase the risk of long-term damage.

‍Causes and Triggers of GERD

‍GERD develops when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus—weakens or relaxes inappropriately. This allows acid to escape into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation.‍

Common Causes of GERD:

1. Poor Diet & Food Triggers
   • Spicy, fried, and fatty foods weaken the LES
   • Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and acidic foods increase acid reflux
   • Caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks relax the LES
   • Processed foods and high sugar intake worsen inflammation
2. Hiatal Hernia
   • A condition where the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, making acid reflux worse
3. Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria)
   • Contrary to popular belief, GERD is often linked to too little stomach acid, not too much
   • When stomach acid is insufficient, food is poorly digested, causing fermentation and gas buildup, which forces acid into the esophagus
4. Chronic Stress & Anxiety
   • Stress increases cortisol, which slows digestion and weakens the LES
   • Emotional distress can make acid reflux symptoms worse
5. Obesity & Abdominal Pressure
   • Excess weight increases pressure on the stomach, forcing acid into the esophagus
   • Pregnancy can also contribute to reflux due to increased intra-abdominal pressure
6. Poor Eating Habits
   • Eating too quickly or overeating increases the risk of acid reflux
   • Lying down or going to bed soon after eating prevents proper digestion
7. Medication Use
   • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin), blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can weaken the LES and increase reflux symptoms
8. Dysbiosis (Gut Microbiome Imbalance)
   • Imbalanced gut bacteria can lead to SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), which increases gas production and pressure on the stomach

A Functional Medicine Approach to Treating GERD

‍At Caring for the Body, we focus on identifying and correcting the root causes of GERD, rather than just suppressing symptoms with medication. Conventional treatments like antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying issues and can even lead to long-term digestive problems.

‍Key Strategies for Managing GERD Naturally

1. Personalized Nutrition for GERDA GERD-friendly diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce acid reflux and promote healing.

• Avoid trigger foods – Spicy, acidic, fried, and processed foods
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals – Prevents overloading the stomach
• Increase fiber intake – Supports digestion and prevents bloating
• Incorporate alkaline foods – Leafy greens, bananas, and non-citrus fruits can help neutralize acid
• Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated supports digestion and reduces acid buildup

2. Restoring Stomach Acid Balance

• Apple cider vinegar or digestive bitters before meals can stimulate stomach acid production
• HCl (hydrochloric acid) supplements (if needed) to improve digestion
• Zinc and B vitamins support acid production and gut repair

3. Improving Gut Health

• Probiotics and prebiotics to restore beneficial gut bacteria
• Digestive enzymes to enhance food breakdown and prevent bloating
• Eliminating SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) if present

4. Stress Management & Nervous System Support

• Mindfulness, deep breathing, and meditation to reduce stress-related reflux
• Gentle yoga and light movement after meals to aid digestion
• Adequate sleep to promote gut repair and reduce inflammation

5. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly to support digestion
• Avoid eating at least 2-3 hours before bed to reduce nighttime reflux
• Elevate the head of the bed to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure

6. Natural Remedies & Supplements

• Slippery elm and aloe vera – Coat and soothe the esophagus
• Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) – Supports stomach lining repair
• Magnesium – Helps relax the LES and prevent spasms

Breaking Free from Medication DependenceMany people rely on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids for GERD relief, but long-term use can cause nutrient deficiencies, bacterial overgrowth, and rebound acid hypersecretion.By addressing GERD through root-cause solutions, dietary changes, and holistic care, individuals can reduce dependence on medications and achieve lasting relief.

‍Take Control of Your Digestive Health

‍GERD is not just about excess acid—it’s about overall digestive function. A holistic, functional medicine approach identifies the root causes, corrects imbalances, and restores digestive health naturally.

At Caring for the Body, we provide:
✔ Comprehensive digestive testing
✔ Personalized dietary and lifestyle plans
✔ Microbiome support and gut healing strategies
✔ Ongoing care to prevent recurrence

If GERD is interfering with your daily life, schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief!