Learn everything you need to know about getting rid of acid reflux and heartburn!
Timestamps
0:00 Introduction: What you need to know about acid reflux
0:10 Stomach valves explained
3:47 The importance of hydrochloric acid
4:47 Bile and stomach valves
6:55 What to do for acid reflux and heartburn
9:45 Share your success story!
In this video, we’re going to talk about the most important things you need to know if you have acid reflux.
There are valves on the top and bottom of the stomach. The valve on the top prevents stomach acid and food from flowing up into the esophagus.
The lower valve allows food to move into the intestines when needed and prevents food from flowing back up into the stomach.
Both of these valves are called sphincters.
When the sphincters do not close and open at the right times, bile and stomach acid can end up in the wrong places.
Since the sphincters are controlled by the autonomic nervous system, they are highly influenced by stress. This is why many digestive issues are affected by stress—especially acid reflux and heartburn.
Calcium also plays an important role in the function of these two sphincters—calcium is essential for muscle contraction.
Vitamin D controls your calcium levels. If you’re deficient in vitamin D, you can be low in calcium. In turn, this can cause your sphincters to stay open.
The sphincters in and out of your stomach also have receptors that detect hydrochloric acid (HCL). When your stomach isn’t acidic enough, the sphincters may remain partially open, allowing stomach acid to splash up into the esophagus and cause heartburn.
Low stomach acidity can be caused by antacids, medications, and certain foods. Gluten, grains, sugar, and omega-6 fatty acids can cause low stomach acidity.
Hydrochloric acid…
• Plays a role in intestinal hormones
• Prepares folate/vitamin B12 for absorption
• Absorbs minerals
• Helps with the absorption of vitamin B12
• Prevents SIBO and the growth of other pathogens
• Helps prevent food allergies Bile can cause just as much irritation as HCL.
The causes of bile-related heartburn can include:
• Excess belly fa
t • Hiatal hernia
• Bile reflux caused by bile sludge or blocked bile ducts
The best remedies for acid reflux and heartburn are:
• Betaine hydrochloride (unless you have an ulcer)
Dr. Eric Berg
08/31/2023
