Treating Acid Reflux with Nutrition

An estimated 20% of people in the United States suffer from chronic acid reflux. In fact, it’s one of the most commonly diagnosed digestive disorders in our country. Yet despite its prevalence, many people still misunderstand what exactly acid reflux is and what causes it. Contrary to popular belief, acid reflux is most often caused by the production of too little stomach acid, not too much. Keep reading to learn more about this condition and find out how proper nutrition can help improve your acid reflux symptoms. 

What Causes Acid Reflux? 

Your body produces stomach acid to break down your food. When you’re young, your body is generally good at producing enough stomach acid to do this job. As you get older, your body starts to produce less stomach acid—and less acid means slower digestion. 

What happens to food that’s been left out too long? It starts to rot. The food in your stomach is no exception! The longer it takes your body to digest your food, the more likely it is that food will start to ferment. This process creates its own different type of acid and gasses which upset your stomach and make it want to get that food out. But if there isn’t enough stomach acid to handle it, your stomach will try to manually expel the food. The end result is usually regurgitation up into your esophagus. 

Symptoms of Acid Reflux 

The most common symptoms of acid reflux include: 

• Heartburn
• Acid regurgitation
• Indigestion
• Chest pain
• Bloating
• Excessive burping
• Nausea

Common Treatments for Acid Reflux 

Most people with acid reflux try over the counter antacids and dietary changes to try to handle their condition. There are two main problems with this approach: first, antacids make it harder for your body to absorb vital minerals, which can lead to a deficiency if you take antacids long term. 

And second, people with acid reflux, when they make dietary changes, tend to only avoid acidic food. Their reasoning is based on that misconception that “acid reflux means too much acid,” which we know is not true. So they will cut out anything acidic yet still consume too much sugar and carbohydrates, all of which causes the body to produce less stomach acid. 

Acid Reflux Treatment at Mattingly Chiropractic 

I help patients alleviate their acid reflux using Standard Process brand supplements. These are high-quality blends of herbs, vitamins, minerals, and digestive enzymes that promote stomach acid production. After a thorough consultation, I will recommend a nutritional regimen to handle your acid reflux symptoms and improve your body’s digestion. 

Visit Mattingly Chiropractic for Acid Reflux Relief That Works 

If you’re looking for a proven solution for acid reflux, call us at (314) 310-8359 to schedule a nutritional consultation. I will recommend the supplements your body needs to increase acid production and give you lasting relief from acid reflux.