DAY, DATE MONTH 2025

ARTICLE BY MO WELLNESS HUB X THE MARIGOLD MENDER

RELFUX

A NATUROPATHIC PERSPECTIVE

Reflux can be a transient experience for some, triggered by a big meal, alcohol, or stress. But for others, it becomes a chronic and debilitating issue. When reflux occurs frequently, it is known as GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease).

This happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter, the muscular trapdoor between the oesophagus and the stomach, doesn’t close properly causing stomach contents to move back up into the oesophagus.

Because stomach acid is highly acidic, this backflow can cause burning in the chest and throat, pain, coughing, and a bitter taste in the mouth. If left untreated, chronic reflux can damage the oesophageal lining and, in rare cases, cause cellular changes or oesophageal cancer. If reflux is something you experience regularly, it is important to address it.

How Can a Naturopath Help?

As a naturopath, I take a holistic approach to reflux. Rather than focusing only on symptom relief, I explore the underlying causes that may be contributing to the issue. Some of the most common factors I investigate in clinic include:

· Stress and nervous system dysregulation

· Food intolerances such as dairy or gluten

· Trigger foods (alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, peppermint)

· History of antibiotic use or microbiome disruption

· Medications that may affect digestion

· Nutrient deficiencies, especially zinc and sodium

Other physical and lifestyle contributors may include:

· Carrying more weight around the abdomen, increasing

pressure on the stomach

· Hiatal hernia

· Smoking, which weakens the oesophageal sphincter and

reduces protective saliva

· Eating large meals or eating too quickly

· Pregnancy, which increases abdominal pressure

What About Stomach Acid Levels?

It is often assumed that reflux is caused by too much stomach acid. However, many people actually have the opposite problem. In clinic, I frequently see cases of low stomach acid, also called hypochlorhydria. Adequate stomach acid supports digestion, helps regulate gastric emptying, and stimulates the oesophageal sphincter to close. When acid levels are too low, it can lead to fermentation, bloating, delayed emptying, and reflux.

To support healthy acid production, I often use herbal bitters like gentian to stimulate stomach acid secretion. I also use ginger, which supports digestion and faster gastric emptying. In some cases, hydrochloric acid (HCl) supplements may be used carefully with close supervision.

Zinc is a key nutrient needed to produce hydrochloric acid and support the digestive lining. Sodium helps move chloride into the stomach, where it combines with hydrogen to form stomach acid. While excess sodium can be harmful, very low sodium intake, especially in restrictive diets, may impair this process.

Long-Term PPI Use: What You Should Know

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid and relieve reflux symptoms. While they can be helpful short-term, long-term use carries risks:

· Nutrient deficiencies, including B12, magnesium, calcium & iron

· Increased risk of gut infections such as Clostridium difficile

· Higher risk of bone fractures

· Rebound acid hypersecretion, where symptoms worsen

when the medication is stopped

This rebound effect is one reason people often feel stuck on PPIs. Working with a practitioner can help make the transition smoother. A gradual reduction, supported by herbs, nutrition, and nervous system care, can ease symptoms and support longer-term healing.

The Role of Stress

Stress is a major contributor to reflux. When we are in a constant state of fight or flight, digestion is not a priority. Stress can reduce stomach acid, delay gastric emptying, and worsen symptoms. Supporting the nervous system through herbs, breathwork, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes can improve digestion and help manage reflux more effectively.

Deeper Imbalances

In some cases, reflux is a sign of broader issues such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), gut dysbiosis, or sluggish liver and gallbladder function. Poor bile flow and impaired fat digestion can increase pressure in the upper digestive system and mimic or worsen reflux.

Symptom Relief While We Heal

While addressing the root cause, there are beautiful herbs we can use to soothe symptoms. Slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root powder can coat and calm the oesophageal lining, reducing irritation and supporting healing.

I have supported many clients with reflux, and it is always rewarding to see improvements in their quality of life. If reflux is something you are struggling with, I would love to support you. I offer in-person consultations at Market Organics Clayfield as well as online appointments, and address each case in a holistic and personalised way.