If reflux occurs after a meal, it’s possible the problem is gastroparesis due to insufficient gastric acid. Impairing the function of these cells can lead to a B12 deficiency, especially in susceptible populations such as the elderly. This compound is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. The parietal cells that produce gastric acid also release a compound called intrinsic factor into the stomach. If enzymes, bile, and intestinal flora cannot complete the job started by the stomach, these larger food particles can act as irritants, trigger an immune response, and promote inflammation.Īnother problem associated with decreasing stomach acid production is malnutrition. In turn, larger and larger particles of poorly digested food pass into the small intestine. Taking a reflux drug will give symptomatic relief but further blunts digestion. The solution is to utilize remedies that improve digestive function and ensure proper stomach emptying. This combination results in stomach acid being pushed up the esophagus, causing reflux. Picture the stomach churning and trying to do more work with less acid. With less acid in the stomach, the signal to tightly close the hiatal sphincter is weak and the esophageal opening is compromised. This is typical of insufficient stomach acid slowing the digestive process and preventing the stomach from emptying in a timely fashion, known as gastroparesis. More common is reflux after a meal, especially when lying down.

Experiencing reflux on an empty stomach may be a sign of overproduction of stomach acid. Stopping the hypersecretion of stomach acid is the rationale behind the development of proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, Prevacid, and Nexium, all of which inhibit the release of stomach acid. If this system works adequately, a moderately sized meal should exit the stomach within two hours.Ī pathology of the parietal cells can result in excess secretion of gastric acid. When this occurs, the sphincter surrounding the duodenum opens up to allow the liquified contents to pass through to the small intestine. Parietal cells secrete gastric acid until the pH of the stomach gets to be 1 or 2 (very acidic), liquifying the stomach contents. The gut and brain together decide how much gastric acid is needed to further break down food. Let’s review the physiology of digestion.Ĭhewing and tasting food allows the tongue to signal the brain to prepare the stomach for digestion. However, the majority of patients with reflux produce too little stomach acid rather than too much. Modern-day proton pump inhibitor drugs are designed to treat a limited presentation of patients with reflux-those who overproduce gastric acid. Holistic medicine posits an opposing view of the underlying cause, that reflux occurs due to impairment of proper digestive function. The condition is thought to be caused by overproduction of stomach acid that gets pushed up into the esophagus. GERD may also be a silent cause of breathing issues if ascending stomach acid irritates the bronchioles. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder of chronic heartburn. Now a pharmaceutical drug is prescribed to treat a full-blown disorder. Trying to stay ahead of the game, one might avoid suspect foods or take a natural remedy to improve digestive function. Taking an antacid was the typical means of treatment.

It used to be considered common knowledge that indigestion, or heartburn, was a sign of dietary indiscretion.

Relux throught