Reflux is actually caused by TOO LITTLE stomach acid!
Acid reflux is a common digestive ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. While conventional wisdom suggests that acid reflux is the result of excessive stomach acid, an emerging body of evidence challenges this belief. Surprisingly, in some cases, acid reflux can actually be caused by too little stomach acid, a condition referred to as Hypochlorhydria. In this article, we will explore this lesser-known aspect of acid reflux and delve into the mechanisms behind it. As a naturopath, I have treated reflux and heartburn as an issue with too little acid for the last 17 years and had tremendous results.
Understanding Acid Reflux
To comprehend why insufficient stomach acid can lead to acid reflux, it's essential to understand the role of stomach acid in the digestive process. The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid (HCl) to help break down food, kill pathogens, and activate other digestive enzymes. Normally, a healthy balance of acid in the stomach is crucial for effective digestion and preventing the food and acid mix (chyme) from sitting in the stomach for too long. Because if it does it will cause fermentation, which leads to pressure build-up and the esophageal sphincter rising, allowing for the reflux of food, acid liquid, or vapours.
The Conventional View
Conventional medicine often attributes acid reflux to an overproduction of stomach acid. This perception has led to the widespread prescription of acid-suppressing medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which aim to reduce acid secretion in the stomach. They can actually reduce your acid production by up to 95%. While these drugs may provide temporary relief from reflux symptoms, they often come with side effects and potential long-term health risks. It is also worth noting that there is a rare condition in which people do produce excess stomach acid, called Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
The Lesser-Known Culprit: Hypochlorhydria
Hypochlorhydria, or too little stomach acid, is an often-overlooked cause of acid reflux (but not by me). It occurs when the stomach fails to produce an adequate amount of HCl, leading to impaired digestion and increased intra-abdominal pressure. These factors can contribute to the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing unpleasant and even extremely painful symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, dry chronic cough, post nasal drip, and even a hoarse voice.
Several factors can contribute to Hypochlorhydria, including age, chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions. As individuals age, their production of stomach acid may naturally decrease, making them more susceptible to reflux symptoms. Chronic stress can also affect the autonomic nervous system, which regulates stomach acid production, issues with gut-brain communication often lead to a weakening of digestive capacity throughout the system. Additionally, deficiencies in key nutrients, such as zinc, vitamin B12, and chloride, can impair the body's ability to produce sufficient stomach acid.
The Role of Sphincter Dysfunction
Another crucial factor linking low stomach acid to reflux is the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring separating the esophagus from the stomach. The LES functions as a valve that prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When stomach acid is insufficient, the LES may not receive the necessary signal to close tightly, allowing stomach contents to reflux. Also magnesium deficiency can cause a weak and lax sphincter.
Treating Reflux Caused by Low Stomach Acid
Addressing reflux caused by too little stomach acid requires a different approach than the conventional method of reducing acid production.
Here are some strategies to consider:
Digestive enzyme supplementation: Taking digestive enzyme supplements that contain betaine HCl, pepsin, and other digestive enzymes can support the digestion of food and relieve the pressure on the LES. There are also herbs to support the optimal function of the digestive organs and to soothe away your pain and discomfort.
Dietary modifications: Certain foods, like spicy, acidic, and fatty dishes, can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Avoiding these trigger foods and maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet can help manage acid reflux. Eating enough fruit and vegetables will provide the building blocks (vitamins & minerals) that are required for acid production.
Nutritional support: Correcting nutrient deficiencies, such as zinc and vitamin B12, may improve stomach acid production and overall digestive health. Checking if you have sufficient levels may be an important factor for you.
Lifestyle changes: Reducing stress, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact reflux symptoms. Ensuring you are in “rest & digest” before meals is essential to the production of sufficient stomach acid and enzymes. I support my patients with various breathing techniques, tips, and herbal support.
I take all my patients through this concept of too little acid in the case of acid reflux. I also assess the function of their stomach with various techniques. But the strongest proof comes from the results they achieve. “The proof is in the pudding” as they say, but don’t eat pudding if you are trying to reduce your reflux, hehe.
If you have questions about reflux or any gut issues, join my “Tummy Talk Thursdays” on Instagram and get your questions answered.
Check out the details here:
If you want 5 ways to reduce your bloating, pain, and gas, get my FREE e-book right now!
This guide is easy to understand, so that you can begin implementing changes today and
get relief as soon as possible.
Don’t suffer any longer!
A bit about me!
I am Danielle Elliott a qualified Naturopath and the owner of Tummy Rescue.
I have been helping kids & adults improve their health for over 16 years, with the last 11 years concentrating on helping patients with any kind of gut disorder. I began focussing on everything gut related after my husband was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. And lucky I did……as my husband and both our kids have Coeliac Disease and my daughter has a dairy allergy.
So…. I am well and truly where I am meant to be!
I love being able to help people to soothe and calm their symptoms, investigate the causes and support and improve their gut function.
I also get to write educational pieces to train practitioners and am often interviewed for podcasts and summits, which is another really rewarding part of my work. I love educating people (this is something I do in every consult), because I do believe knowledge is power. It gives you the tools to make the changes you need to!
So, when you opt-in to my E-book, you are beginning on a journey of learning and discovery, of how you can reduce your symptoms of bloating, gas & pain and improve your gut health.
I would be honoured to help you along the way.
Danielle xoxo