Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition characterized by the backward flow of stomach acids into the esophagus, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest. Additional symptoms may include a sour taste in the mouth, runny nose, and sore throat upon waking. Several major causes contribute to this condition, including low stomach acid levels, deficiencies in zinc and chloride, and forward/slumped posture. It is essential to address these root causes rather than merely treating the symptoms for long-term relief and improved well-being.

Low Stomach Acid Levels: The True Cause

Contrary to popular belief, the primary cause of acid reflux is not excessive stomach acid, but rather insufficient levels of stomach acid. Patients are often misinformed by their doctors, leading to a misunderstanding of the condition. If high stomach acid levels were the true cause, individuals experiencing acid reflux would have improved digestion and better absorption of nutrients. However, in practice, these individuals often struggle with food digestion, especially protein, and exhibit deficiencies in vital nutrients that depend on proper stomach acid levels for breakdown and absorption.

Factors Contributing to Low Stomach Acid

Several factors contribute to low stomach acid levels:

• High Stress: Chronic stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to a reduction in acid production as the body prioritizes energy allocation to muscles. Consequently, chronically stressed individuals often experience tight muscles and trigger points.
• High Carb/Sugar Diets: Consuming highly refined carbohydrates and sugary foods, such as white bread, cereal, pasta, white rice, candy, and sweetened drinks, causes elevated blood sugar levels. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can result in damage to various body structures, including the stomach lining. Inflammation of the stomach compromises proper digestion and contributes to reflux.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Adequate stomach acid production requires two essential components: the mineral zinc and the compound chloride. Zinc, found in dark leafy greens, nuts, and shellfish, is often deficient in modern diets due to depleted soil quality. Moreover, chloride is obtained primarily through salt consumption. Contrary to popular belief, a low-salt diet is not the solution; instead, opting for high-quality salt like Himalayan pink salt, rich in trace minerals and chloride, is recommended.

Correcting the Structure of the Spine

Addressing forward slumped posture plays a crucial role in treating acid reflux. When the body assumes a forward slumped posture, it results in various structural changes, including shoulder slump, forward head position, and collapsed chest. These changes compress the stomach between the ribs, leading to reflux. Many patients report that their reflux occurs unpredictably due to these structural issues.

Comprehensive Approach for Acid Reflux

To effectively address acid reflux at its root cause, a comprehensive approach is necessary:

1. Supplementing Stomach Acid: Increasing stomach acid supplementation helps restore proper acid levels and aids in digestion.
2. Addressing Deficiencies in Zinc and Chloride: If deficiencies in zinc and chloride are found, they need to be corrected through appropriate supplementation. Dark leafy greens, nuts, shellfish, and high-quality salts can contribute to restoring these essential nutrients.
3. Dietary Changes: Modifying the diet to avoid sugars and refined carbs helps reduce inflammation and support overall digestive health.
4. Correcting Forward Posture: By correcting forward/slumped posture, pressure on the stomach is alleviated, allowing for normal digestion to occur.