If you have bad breath regularly, unexplained blisters, or a dry mouth or throat, these could be symptoms of GERD.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, is a chronic digestive condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
Some of the most apparent symptoms include heartburn, coughing, regurgitation, and hoarseness. However, it can also present with quieter, less obvious symptoms such as blistering in the mouth and back of the throat, waking up with a dry throat, tooth enamel erosion, and bad breath.
Low Stomach Acid and the GERD Connection
The most commonly prescribed treatments for GERD are antacids for short-term relief and H2 blockers (such as Pepcid) for longer-term relief. However, contrary to what is commonly assumed, GERD may not always be caused by too much stomach acid, but rather by too little stomach acid or stomach acid whose pH is not acidic enough.
According to Dr. Jonathan Wright, author of Why Stomach Acid Is Good for You, 90 percent of Americans have too little stomach acid production.
Insufficient stomach acid can lead to a whirlwind of health problems, but one particular issue is the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and microbes such as H. pylori. Stomach acid acts as the first line of defense in the digestive tract. Its job is to break down and digest food while also protecting the body from pathogens and microbes that we are constantly exposed to through food.
When our stomach acid (also known as hydrochloric acid) has a pH that is too high or there is not enough of it, these microbes can colonize throughout the digestive system.
These microbes can even grow around the sphincter muscle at the top of the stomach. This muscle separates the stomach from the esophagus and prevents food and stomach acid from washing back up.
These harmful pathogens and microbes can affect this muscle by releasing toxins that prevent it from closing properly or even partially paralyze it, allowing food to flow back up into the esophagus. GERD has also been linked to H. pylori, Helicobacter species, and other bacterial overgrowths and infections.
Solution
The goal is to increase stomach acid production and kill off the harmful pathogens and microbes that may be contributing to GERD.
Step 1: Remove Processed Foods
Remove all processed, sugary foods and adopt a clean, high-fiber diet.
Heavily refined and processed foods that are filled with sugars and starches feed harmful bacteria and pathogens and do not stimulate stomach acid production. By removing these foods, you help starve the microbes.
Step 2: Rebalance the Gut Microflora
Take the necessary steps to ensure there is a healthy balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria.
Olive Leaf Tea — Olive leaf tea has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It may also help reduce acid reflux symptoms by lowering inflammation and protecting the stomach lining.
Cistus Tea — Cistus tea, also known as Cistus incanus tea, is one of the most ancient herbal teas and has been brewed for centuries throughout the Mediterranean. It was prized for both its medicinal properties and its pleasant aroma.
The plant is rich in protective antioxidants and has been studied for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It may also help lower inflammation and combat harmful bacteria.
Mastic Gum — A natural resin from the mastic tree that has been traditionally used for thousands of years to support digestive health and fight bacterial growth in the digestive tract. It is especially well known for its activity against H. pylori.
Step 3: Eat Foods That Support Stomach Acid Production
Apple Cider Vinegar — Apple cider vinegar is a great natural way to support stomach acid production. Simply drizzling some over your salad or food may help. It also has natural antibacterial properties.
Limes — Limes are another great way to help stimulate stomach acid production.
Fermented Foods — Fermented foods are another excellent way to support stomach acid production, including:
- Umeboshi Fermented Plums — Umeboshi plums are fermented plums rich in probiotics. For over a thousand years, they have been valued as a powerful digestive aid. In many Asian cultures, they have traditionally been used to help rejuvenate the gut and have been prized for their antibacterial, anti-Candida, and antiparasitic properties.
- Sauerkraut —Sauerkraut is a healthy Probiotic powerhouse which aids digestion and nutrient absorption and restores healthy gut bacteria.
If you are experiencing other digestive problems like constipation, stomach aches, bloating and pain, our Digestive Diet Plan might be a great fit for you!
Join +1000 of customers who have rebooted their digestive health and are now living symptom free with the help of our diet plan. Our plan includes:
Powerful Probiotic superfoods that help restore gut lining, anti inflammatory teas, clean food options and personalized guidance. We guide each step of the way.
for more info check out our site and give us a call at 954 541 4062
