Guest Author - Sharon Lasitter

Taking the natural approach to your health is one of the most gratifying things that you can do for your body, mind and spirit. It means you have taken a greater interest in yourself. No one can care about you and your body more than you can!

Antro-duodenal motility: If the blood flow to your GI tract is compromised, the rhythm (motility) of your duodenum (upper small intestine) and stomach can be affected. This causes a back-flow, and heartburn can result. The root cause may be shallow breathing due to emotional duress and lack of exercise, resulting in stagnant blood. For testing, see a qualified acupuncturist.

Reduced stomach acid: Either medications or a poor diet can cause a reduction in stomach acid. Without enough acid the food you ingest cannot digest properly, causing the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) to relax.

Conventional medications for GERD: A major cause of heartburn is acid reducers, acid neutralizers, both OTC (over the counter) and prescription PPI drugs (proton pump inhibitors) which reduce the production of stomach acid. If you are using these medications daily and over a long period of time your symptoms will most likely appear to be inflamed if you stop taking them. Reduced stomach acid slows down digestion which can relax the LES. In other words, the medications we are given to heal us, actually perpetuate our acid reflux making us more ill and also can put strain on the liver. The effects of long term use of these medications, beyond a year are unknown. Tip: If you are not already taking these meds, don’t start. If you are taking them ask your doctor about the best way to wean yourself off of them. If you don’t get the results you want, see a licensed practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine for help.

Conventional medications: A litany of petroleum based medications can affect the LES, including many antidepressants. Tip: Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any medications that you are on are likely to be giving you heartburn then research alternative remedies for your condition. If you are taking antidepressants have a dialog with your therapist about whether you actually need to be taking them. Antidepressants were not designed for long term use.

You are over 45: As we age our body begins to lose muscle mass. Since the LES is actually muscle tissue it can become slightly diminished. You will also naturally begin producing less stomach acid. Tip: If this is the case, eating foods that are high in acid can regulate the problem.


See my related articles on the cause of acid reflux:
Acid Reflux – Physical Factors
Dietary Causes of Acid Reflux






*Please know that I am not a medical doctor or a health practitioner. I cannot diagnose your stomach problems nor can I guarantee a cure. I am here to share my knowledge, which applications have worked for me and to offer suggestions of where you may go physically, emotionally and spiritually for healing and self-empowerment. If you choose to explore alternative medicine, do not independently stop taking your prescribed medications. Always consult with your current doctor as well as your new practitioner when changing your medical program.