Indigestion & Acid Reflux
Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen often associated with eating. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation. These conditions affect approximately 20% of the population and can significantly impact quality of life. While occasional indigestion is common, persistent symptoms may indicate underlying issues such as low stomach acid, H. pylori infection, hiatal hernia, or stress-related digestive dysfunction.
Symptoms
- •Upper abdominal discomfort, pain, or burning sensation especially after meals
- •Feeling of fullness or early satiety even with small amounts of food
- •Heartburn or burning sensation in the chest rising toward the throat
- •Regurgitation of food or sour liquid into the mouth
- •Belching, bloating, or nausea after eating
- •Difficulty swallowing or feeling of food stuck in the throat
Causes & Risk Factors
- •Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) impairing proper food digestion and lower esophageal sphincter function
- •Helicobacter pylori infection causing chronic gastritis and altered stomach acid production
- •Hiatal hernia allowing stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus
- •Stress and rapid eating activating the sympathetic nervous system and impairing digestion
Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic treatment for indigestion and acid reflux focuses on identifying and addressing root causes while providing symptomatic relief without suppressing natural stomach acid production. Comprehensive assessment may include testing for H. pylori infection, evaluation of stomach acid levels, and identifying food triggers through elimination protocols. Contrary to popular belief, many cases of reflux are caused by insufficient rather than excess stomach acid. Supporting adequate stomach acid through bitter herbs, apple cider vinegar, or betaine HCl (when appropriate) improves digestion and strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter. Soothing demulcent herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) protect and heal the esophageal lining. Addressing H. pylori when present using antimicrobial botanical protocols can resolve chronic inflammation. Digestive enzyme supplementation supports proper food breakdown, reducing fermentation and gas that contribute to reflux. Dietary modifications include eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, not eating close to bedtime, and emphasizing whole, minimally processed foods. Stress management and mindful eating practices activate the parasympathetic nervous system essential for healthy digestion. Positional therapy including elevating the head of the bed and avoiding lying down after meals reduces reflux episodes. This comprehensive approach aims to restore comfortable digestion, heal gastrointestinal tissues, and eliminate dependence on acid-suppressing medications.
Related Modalities
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't I need to reduce stomach acid if I have acid reflux?
This is a common misconception. While acid-suppressing medications provide symptom relief, many cases of reflux are actually caused by insufficient stomach acid. Low stomach acid impairs digestion, causes fermentation and gas buildup that forces the lower esophageal sphincter open, and fails to signal the sphincter to close properly. Proper assessment and supporting adequate stomach acid (when appropriate) often resolves reflux more effectively than long-term acid suppression.
Can I stop taking my PPI (proton pump inhibitor) medication?
Never discontinue PPIs abruptly without medical supervision, as rebound acid hypersecretion can cause severe symptoms. However, many people can successfully wean off PPIs under professional guidance while addressing root causes and supporting natural digestive function. This process typically takes several weeks to months with gradual dose reduction while implementing naturopathic support strategies.
What foods should I avoid if I have acid reflux?
Common triggers include caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, mint, spicy foods, citrus, tomatoes, and fatty or fried foods. However, triggers are highly individual. Some people also react to specific carbohydrates that ferment and produce gas. An elimination and reintroduction protocol can identify your personal triggers. Additionally, how and when you eat often matters as much as what you eat.
How long does it take to resolve chronic indigestion naturally?
Many patients notice improvement in symptoms within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment. However, healing damaged esophageal tissue and restoring optimal digestive function typically takes 2-3 months of consistent treatment. If H. pylori infection is present, eradication protocols typically run 4-8 weeks. Long-term resolution requires addressing underlying causes and maintaining healthy digestive habits.
References
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Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND
Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA
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