Originally Published by Dr. Axe
What Causes Acid Reflux?
There are a variety of reasons it happens, but essentially the esophageal valve that connect the esophagus and stomach is unable to shut properly and gastric juices end up “sneaking up the pipe” so to speak. Some common causes include:
- Hiatal hernia
Normally, the diaphragm helps keep acid from rising into the
esophagus. However, if the upper part of the gut moves above this muscle that separating the chest from the stomach, acid can leak through. - Pregnancy
The excess pressure from the growing fetus can sometimes be too much for the esophageal valve. - Smoking
Shown to damage mucus membranes, impair muscle reflexes, increase acid secretion, and reduce salivation smoking can lead to acid reflux. - Too little acid
Completely contrary to what is commonly taught today, too little stomach acid causes a slew of GI issues like leaky gut that contribute to acid reflux. - Eating before bed
Eating too close to bedtime and then laying down puts your body in a position that is abnormal for digestion which can cause acid reflux. - Excessive exercise
Doing lots of long distance cardiovascular exercise like marathons can make it harder to digest the food you eat. - Taking medications
Drugs like aspirin, ibroprofen, muscle relaxers, blood pressure medications, steroids and anti-biotic drugs can damage the gut lining causing acid reflux. - Being overweight or obese
Putting on extra body weight can cause acid reflux by increasing pressure on your esophageal valve and may also be linked to low stomach acid.
Common acid reflux food triggers
- Alcohol
- Carbonated beverages
- Chocolate
- Citrus fruits
- Coffee
- Desserts
- Fried foods
- Spicy foods
- Tomato products
If you have acid reflux, look to restrict these foods as part of your acid reflux diet.
Healing low stomach acid-related conditions isn’t that difficult, but it does take some determination and resolve.
Here are some other tips to restore proper stomach acid levels:
- Taking vitamin U, Himalayan sea salt, and Manuka honey
- Limit water intake (preventing over-hydration)
- Avoid high fiber diet
- Avoid allergens
- Not eating while stressed
Read a more detailed Step-by-Step Guide to Heal Acid Reflux & Medication Side Effects
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