Acid Reflux = Not Enough Acid

Stomach as a Blender

Normal pH of the stomach is approximately 1.2 (that's super acid)! When you eat, the acid liquefies your food into a substance called chyme. This happens while your stomach is churning which makes it sort of like your own personal blender.

When digestion is not complete there is bloating and irritation.

The Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)

When digestive function is poor (not enough acid produced) then the food will sit and stew (at close to 100 degrees). The body is reluctant to let it pass through the pyloric valve (the lower valve that empties the stomach into the intestines) because it is not ready. The pressure of gas and bloat pushes up and irritates the LES until one day it no longer fully closes. This allows for acid to splash up where it should never be causing acid reflux.

Hypochlorhydria  (low stomach acid production)

Acid reflux is from a small amount of acid in the wrong place because there is not enough acid to complete the process of digestion. 

Causes of Hypochlorhydria:

➤  sympathetic nervous system overload

➤  excess carbohydrate consumption (pancreatic stress)

➤  alcohol consumption

➤  transient bacterial  in the lower intestines

➤  zinc or B vitamin deficiencies (especially thiamine)

➤  pathologies or dysfunctions involving the pituitary gland

➤  scarring in the GI tract from history of ulcers  

Antacids Shut Down Normal Function

Acid production is normal physiology. The patients that come to me after long term antacid use are typically the most problematic. They may initially experience relief (acid reflux reduced) but because their digestion function is further compromised they eventually get severe lower tract irritation and malabsorption problems (IBS, IBD, etc.).

Solution

Reduce causative factors (dietary and lifestyle) while improving digestive function. Start by eliminating grains, starches, sugars, beans, and milk while taking an enzyme/HCl supplement with meals. The goal is to reduce irritation which allows for improved function. Stubborn cases should seek help from a qualified doctor.