Get a Free Consultation for GERD Natural Treatment
Almost 20% of people in Western countries have acid reflux or GERD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease).
It’s often caused by things like poor diets, stress, and weight gain. PPIs and other drugs can help, but they can also have long-term adverse effects.
That's why a lot of people are looking for natural GERD treatment. Valery Martino is a naturopath and herbalist at the Martino Clinic. She has been working there for more than 10 years and offers a holistic treatment of GERD and other digestive problems.
.
How Can Naturopathy Help Relief from GERD?
My naturopathic approach to GERD focuses on comprehensive dietary and lifestyle changes to soothe reflux and heal the oesophagus.
I work with you to identify and avoid triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods, integrating herbal remedies like slippery elm to coat and calm the oesophagus.
Through treatment plans, I provide lifestyle guidance on meal timing, posture, and stress reduction techniques, helping you maintain symptom control with regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust recommendations as needed.
Everyone’s body and triggers are unique, which is why a personalised approach is essential to finding lasting relief and balance. If you have questions or would like to explore a tailored plan, please get in touch or book an introductory call to discuss how I can help.
Common causes and risk factors for GERD
Common causes and risk factors for GERD
Physiological factors | Lifestyle and dietary factors | Other risk factors |
|---|---|---|
Tobacco use | ||
Abnormal esophageal tissue or function | Alcohol and caffeine consumption | Stress and anxiety |
Delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis) | Trigger foods (high-fat, spicy, acidic foods, chocolate, etc.) | Connective tissue disorders like scleroderma |
Weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter | Large meals and eating close to bedtime | Certain medications (including NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, some asthma medications) |
Hiatal hernia (when part of the stomach protrudes into the chest) | Obesity and excess weight, especially around the abdomen | Pregnancy (due to hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure) |
Understanding these factors helps target natural treatment approaches to address the underlying causes of GERD rather than simply managing symptoms.
These foods to avoid when you have GERD
Studies repeatedly point to certain foods that many people find to cause GERD symptoms. Reducing or eliminating these foods can help to reduce occurrences of acid reflux greatly:
-
High-fat foods: Fried meals, fatty cuts of meat, whole-fat dairy products, and oils decrease stomach emptying and relax the LES, therefore raising reflux risk. Higher fat content meals were linked to more frequent reflux episodes, according a research written up in the Journal of Gastroenterology.
-
Acidic foods: tomatoes and tomato-based products (sauce, paste, juice); citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons); may aggravate an already-inflamed oesophagus, exacerbating symptoms.
-
Spicy foods: Chilli peppers, spicy sauces, and strongly spiced recipes all include capsaicin, which may aggravate the oesophagus and slow down stomach emptying.
-
Chocolate: Chocolate contains methylxanthines that calm the LES and boost acid production.
-
Garlic and onions: For many GERD patients, garlic and onions aggravate their symptoms and provide extra burning sensations.
-
Mint: Peppermint and spearmint help the LES to relax, therefore enabling acid to pass back into the oesophagus.
These drinks to avoid when you have GERD
Certain drinks are particularly problematic for acid reflux:
-
Alcohol irritates the esophageal lining and slows down the LES. Many patients find red wine particularly troublesome.
-
Caffeinated beverages: Energy drinks, black tea, and coffee all increase LES relaxation and acid production. In sensitive people, even decaffeinated coffee might set unpleasant symptoms.
-
Carbonated drinks: The stomach's expanding bubbles in soda and sparkling water raise pressure and might force acid upward.
-
Citrus juices: Acidic citrus juices like orange, grapefruit, and other varieties might aggravate the oesophagus.
-
Tomato juice: Highly acidic and usually causes reflux is tomato juice.
Foods to help GERD
High-fiber options help with acid reflux
Management of GERD and digestive health depend much on dietary fibre:
-
whole grains: Complex carbs and fibre like brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread and quinoa help absorb stomach acid and control digestion.
-
Root vegetables: Easy to digest and high in fibre, root vegetables include beets, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
-
Beans and legumes: Proper preparation and introduction of beans and legumes help to promote general digestive capacity.
Suggesting that fiber-rich meals may help control acid reflux, a 2018 research in the World Journal of Gastroenterology indicated that patients who raised their fibre intake reported significant reductions in GERD symptoms.
Alkaline foods for acid reflux
Higher pH foods may help offset gastric acid:
-
Bananas: With a pH of around 5.6, bananas have natural antacids and are very alkaline.
-
Melons with alkaline pH and great water content include watermelons, cantaloupe, honeydew.
-
Fennel has chemicals that could lower stomach acid and a about 6.9 pH.
-
Leafy greens: Alkalising properties abound in leafy greens like kale and spinach.
-
Almonds: In moderation, almonds may assist to balance stomach acid.
Watery fruits and vegetables
High water content foods help to dilute gastric acid and lessen its potency:
-
Cucumbers: About 95% contain water; hence, they are mild for the digestive system.
-
Celery: Contains mostly water and has a mild alkalizing effect.
-
Watermelon: Less likely to aggravate symptoms than acidic fruits; it offers hydration.
-
Lettuce: All kinds are water-heavy and unlikely to cause reflux.
Optimal eating habits for GERD
Your eating habits might be just as crucial as your food choices:
-
Smaller, more frequent meals: Big meals may drive acid into the oesophagus and raise stomach pressure. Five to six smaller meals spread across the day help to lower this load.
-
Eating slowly and carefully helps to minimise overindulgence by allowing one to chew deeply and minimise the quantity of air consumed.
-
Meal timing: Steer clear of dinner three hours before bed. This habit greatly reduced nocturnal acid problems, according a 2020 research in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.
-
Correct stance: Keeping at least thirty minutes straight upright after meals helps gravity keep stomach contents where they belong.
-
Mindful eating assists digestion by concentrating on your meal free from distractions, thereby preventing overindulgence.
17 Effective GERD natural treatment
1. Apple cider vinegar: How to use it safely
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps some individuals with GERD even though it is acidic. According to the notion, ACV could help regulate stomach acid production in situations where reflux results from inadequate rather than excess acid.
Although scientific data supporting ACV for GERD is lacking, a tiny research published in 2022 indicated that diluted ACV may assist improve postprandial glycaemic response by decreasing stomach emptying, therefore indirectly benefiting certain GERD sufferers.
For using safely:
-
Always dilute one to two teaspoons in eight ounces of water.
-
Eat before breakfast.
-
With "the mother," use raw, unprocessed ACV.
-
Start modest and track your reaction.
-
Stop if symptoms are worse.
Advice: Because ACV is acidic, many GERD sufferers may find their symptoms worse. See a healthcare professional before attempting this cure, particularly if you have severe reflux or esophageal injury.
2. Ginger: Nature's stomach helper
Ginger has been used for ages to treat stomach problems and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show ginger helps speed up stomach emptying, therefore lowering the reflux risk.
Ginger sped up stomach emptying in individuals with functional dyspepsia, according to a clinical study written up in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Another research found that ginger (1650 mg daily) significantly reduced dysmotility, reflux, and ulcers' associated upper GI symptoms.
Use ginger in this way:
-
For ginger tea, steep fresh ginger slices in boiling water; steer clear of adding lemon.
-
Slosh soups or smoothies with grated ginger.
-
Take 250–500 mg of ginger pills before meals.
-
Chew on bits of crystallised ginger (in moderation given sugar content).
3. Aloe vera juice to calm the stomach
Anti-inflammatory qualities of aloe vera may help calm the inflamed oesophagus lining. Published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a 2015 randomised controlled experiment revealed that aloe vera syrup eliminated all GERD symptoms with no side effects noted.
To provide relief from GERD:
-
Choose decolorised, pure aloe vera juice, especially meant for internal consumption.
-
About twenty minutes before dinner, take one to three teaspoons.
-
Make sure the product is devoid of aloe latex, often known as aloin, which may aggravate digestion.
-
Test tolerance starting with modest quantities.
4. Simple fix: chewing gum
After meals, chewing sugar-free gum boosts saliva output, which may help neutralise acid and clear it back into the stomach. Chewing gum for thirty minutes after a meal reduced acid reflux and heartburn symptoms, according research in the Journal of Dental Research.
One gains from:
-
More salivation, which includes bicarbonate, results from
-
quicker acid clearance out of the oesophagus
-
Less acid generated when salivary glands' stimulation affects
Choose sugar-free versions and chew for half an hour after meals. Steer clear of mint flavoured gums, as they might loosen the LES.
5. Slippery elm to protect mucous membranes
Slippery elm includes mucilage, a material that combined with water forms a slippery gel. This gel creates a barrier against acid damage and may cover and therefore calm the oesophagus.
Although there are few clinical research especially on GERD, slippery elm has long history of usage for many inflammatory disorders of the digestive system. Usually regarded as harmless, it might provide relief by means of:
-
Protective effects of mucous membranes
-
Anti-inflammatory action
-
Demulcent, or calming, impact on inflamed tissues
Generally speaking, follow the directions on the product label.
-
As lozenges (follow package instructions)
-
As powder (one tablespoon blended with water before to meals).
-
In pill form, (follow dosage recommendations)
6. DGL licorice for lining of the stomach
Regular usage of deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), licorice root with the glycyrrhizin removed, is safer. DGL could boost mucus production in the digestive system, therefore forming a barrier against stomach acid.
Published in 2018, a clinical research including patients treated over 28 days revealed that licorice extract significantly reduced GERD symptoms and quality of life. Another research in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that functional dyspepsia symptoms responded well with a combination preparation incorporating licorice.
Regarding GERD relief:
-
About 20 minutes before meals, chew one to two DGL pills totaling 380–400 mg.
-
Search for items devoid of glycyrrhizin, alcohol, and sugar.
-
Use for at least eight to twelve weeks to assess potency.
7. The medicinal qualities of marshmallow root
Like slippery elm, marshmallow root has mucilage that coats inflamed esophageal tissues in protection. It has long been utilized for certain digestive tract inflammatory disorders.
Although there is little clinical study especially for GERD, marshmallow root's demulcent qualities make it a sensible option for calming irritated tissues. One may understand it as:
-
Steep one to two tablespoons of dried root in boiling water for ten to fifteen minutes.
-
Tincture (in line with package instructions)
-
Usually 400– 1600 mg daily split, capsules
8. Chamomile tea's relaxing properties
Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic qualities of chamomile might aid to calm the stomach. Although particular studies on chamomile for GERD are few, many reflux patients would find it an excellent choice based on its overall digestive advantages and stress-reducing effects.
Chamomile might be of assistance:
-
Calm the digestive tract's irritation.
-
Release tension; a typical reflux trigger
-
Encourage rest before bed (maybe lowering evening reflux).
For optimum effects:
-
In boiling water, steep one teabag or one spoonful of dried chamomile blossoms for ten minutes.
-
Drink one to three cups a day, particularly before bed or after meals.
-
Look for premium, organic chamomile tea.
9. Emergency cure: baking soda
A natural antacid, baking soda—sodium bicarbonate—can rapidly neutralise stomach acid. During acute reflux events, a little quantity dissolved in water might provide quick relief.
Only for sporadic use:
-
In four ounces of water, mix one half teaspoon.
-
Eat gently.
-
Limit it to only sporadic usage.
-
If you have high blood pressure or need to limit sodium, do not use it routinely.
Important: This should not be used as routine therapy, but rather as a means for occasional relief. Extended usage might upset the body's acid-base balance.
10. Melatonin to help at night
Melatonin does more than control sleep patterns; studies point to possible digestive system protection. Melatonin was useful in reducing GERD symptoms, whether taken alone or in conjunction with omeprazole, according a randomised clinical study published in BMC Gastroenterology.
Melatonin seems to:
-
Strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter
-
Boost blood flow to the oesophagus.
-
Use analgesic properties to lessen heartburn feeling.
Regarding the treatment of GERD:
-
About 30 minutes before bed, take 3–6 mg.
-
Use regularly for at least 4 to 8 weeks to see if it works.
-
See a doctor before beginning, particularly if you use other drugs.
11. Probiotics for intestinal harmony
Beneficial germs called probiotics help with digestion. Although studies directly tying probiotics to GERD alleviation are still under development, some studies point that them may be beneficial via:
-
Enhancing digestion and lowering intestinal irritation
-
Improving intestinal emptying
-
Juggling the gut flora
-
lowering H. pylori bacteria, linked in certain instances to reflux
Certain probiotic strains may help reduce acid symptoms, according a 2020 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, especially when used with traditional therapy.
For possible advantages:
-
Select a premium probiotic with several strains.
-
Search for items with species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
-
Take as advised, usually one to two capsules daily with meals.
-
Be consistent; usually, advantages show up after several weeks of frequent usage.
12. Fennel seeds for breaking down meals
For millennia, fennel seeds have helped digestion and ease flatulence. They include substances perhaps beneficial:
Calm the digestive system.
-
Lessen inflammation
-
Lessen digestive system spasms.
-
Quicker gastric emptying
For GERD assistance:
-
After meals, chew 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds.
-
For fennel tea, steam one teaspoon of crushed seeds in boiling water for ten minutes.
-
As directed—usually one to two capsules before meals—take fennel pills.
13. Papaya protein breakdown enzymes
One digestive enzyme found in papaya that breaks down proteins is papain. Enhanced protein digestion might slow down stomach emptying, therefore lowering the reflux risk.
-
Lessening stomach pressure
-
Endorsing general digestive effectiveness
Available in tablet form, papaya enzyme supplements should be taken with meals, following package guidelines. Though those with latex allergies should take careful as cross-reactivity may occur, fresh papaya can also provide advantages.
14. The neutralising power of almonds
Some GERD patients claim that a few almonds taken after meals helps ease acid reflux symptoms. Though there is little clinical data, almonds are alkaline-forming foods that could help neutralise gastric acid.
-
Offer good fats and protein meant to induce fullness.
-
Preventing overindulgence will help to lower the LES pressure.
Regarding future advantages:
-
Eat five to ten raw, unsalted almonds after meals.
-
Go for raw rather than salted and roasted forms.
-
Watch your reaction; some people find that high-fat diets aggravate symptoms.
15. Coconut water for alkalinity.
Coconut water is naturally alkaline and electrolyte-rich, which may aid to neutralise stomach acid and promote hydration. While there is insufficient study on coconut water for GERD, its features indicate possible benefits:
-
Natural alkalinity (pH about 5.5-6.5)
-
High potassium concentration promotes appropriate muscle function, particularly the LES.
-
The hydrating characteristics may enhance overall digestive function.
For GERD support:
-
Drink 8 ounces of plain, unsweetened coconut water in between meals.
-
Choose variants with no added sweeteners or flavours.
-
Monitor your individual reaction.
16. Mustard's unexpected benefits.
Despite its acidity, yellow mustard includes alkaline minerals and vinegar, which may assist some people neutralise stomach acid. The turmeric in mustard has anti-inflammatory effects.
This cure has minimal scientific basis, but is a traditional practice that some people find useful:
-
Take one teaspoon of plain yellow mustard at the commencement of symptoms.
-
Swallow it directly or combine it with a little water.
-
This may not work for everyone and might exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
17. Lifestyle changes that improve outcomes.
Beyond particular treatments, several lifestyle changes may dramatically improve GERD management:
-
Consistent meal times: Regular eating patterns assist to normalise digestive functions.
-
Proper Hydration: Drinking water between (not during) meals aids digestion without reducing stomach acid.
-
Thorough chewing: Breaking down food mechanically decreases intestinal stress.
-
Food Combining: Some find that eliminating particular meal combinations (such as proteins and starches) lessens symptoms.
-
Eliminate trigger foods: Keeping a food log helps you discover your individual triggers.
Transform Your Health with Proven GERD Lifestyle Changes
Weight Loss for GERD: A Clinically Proven Strategy to Reduce Reflux
Particularly around the abdomen, extra weight presses the stomach and may drive acid into the oesophagus. Several studies have shown that GERD symptoms may be much improved by weight reduction.
Even modest weight loss—10% of body weight—found in a major research published in the New England Journal of Medicine to significantly lower reflux symptoms. The impact seems dose-dependent; more weight reduction corresponds with more relief in symptoms.
Good strategies consist of:
-
Emphasise environmentally friendly dietary modifications instead than fads.
-
Get more physically active gradually; walking after meals is very helpful.
-
Give belly fat reduction first priority since abdominal obesity is most strongly linked to GERD.
-
Establish reasonable targets; even a 5-10% weight reduction can help much.
How to sleep with GERD
Reflux in the evening may seriously affect general health and quality of sleep. By allowing gravity to keep stomach contents where they belong, the correct sleeping posture may help to ease discomfort.
Studies confirm these methods:
-
Sleeping on left sides: Compared to right-side sleeping, a research in The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology indicated that the left lateral position greatly lowered acid exposure.
-
Head position raised: Using bed risers or a wedge cushion, raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches. This produces a modest downhill slope that discourages reflux. Research indicates this may cut acid exposure by up to 75%.
Steers clear of:
-
Sleeping straight forward on your back
-
Using many normal pillows might strain the abdomen.
-
Not eating three hours before bed
How Tight Clothing and Acid Reflux Are Connected – And What You Can Do About It
Especially around the waist, tight clothes might raise intra-abdominal pressure and aggravate acid symptoms. Studies show that LES performance may be influenced even by little outside stimuli.
Suggestions comprise:
-
Particularly during meals, wear loose-fitting attire.
-
Steer clear of stiff waistbands and belts.
-
Select breathable, natural materials.
-
If suitable, think about using suspeners rather of belts.
How Gut Stress Treatment Can Ease Stress and GERD Symptoms
Though it doesn't directly lead to GERD, stress may aggravate symptoms by:
-
Increasing stomach acid generation
-
Slowing down of digestion
-
Sharpening awareness of discomfort and suffering
-
Encouragement of habits aggravating GERD (stress eating, inadequate sleep, etc.)
Evidence-based stress-reducing strategies for GERD consist in:
-
Meditation in mindfulness: Mindfulness-based stress reduction helped GERD symptoms and quality of life, according a 2020 research in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research.
-
Relaxation using progressive muscles: helps lower stress reaction and muscular tightness.
-
Exercises using deep breathing: Stronger diaphragm and maybe improved LES performance have been shown via diaphragmatic breathing.
-
Regular physical activity helps to maintain good digestion and lowers stress by modest amounts.
How Smoking and GERD Are Connected And Why It’s Worth Quitting
Smoking worsens GERD in many ways:
-
Reduces LES pressure and performance.
-
Lowers saliva production, hence neutralising acid.
-
Disturbs the digestive tract's protecting mucous membranes
-
Slows down esophageal tissue healing
Studies repeatedly find that smokers have more severe symptoms and have greater incidences of GERD. Within weeks, quitting smoking might provide notable relief in reflux problems.
Tools for quitting smoking consist in:
-
Replacement treatment for nicotine
-
Medications prescribed from prescriptions
-
Support programs for behaviour
-
Support groups (in-person or online)
-
Mobile applications meant for use while smokers quit
Alternative GERD therapy
Weight Loss for GERD: A Clinically Proven Strategy to Reduce Reflux
Particularly around the abdomen, extra weight presses the stomach and may drive acid into the oesophagus. Several studies have shown that GERD symptoms may be much improved by weight reduction.
Even modest weight loss—10% of body weight—found in a major research published in the New England Journal of Medicine to significantly lower reflux symptoms. The impact seems dose-dependent; more weight reduction corresponds with more relief in symptoms.
Good strategies consist of:
-
Emphasise environmentally friendly dietary modifications instead than fads.
-
Get more physically active gradually; walking after meals is very helpful.
-
Give belly fat reduction first priority since abdominal obesity is most strongly linked to GERD.
-
Establish reasonable targets; even a 5-10% weight reduction can help much.
How to sleep with GERD
Reflux in the evening may seriously affect general health and quality of sleep. By allowing gravity to keep stomach contents where they belong, the correct sleeping posture may help to ease discomfort.
Studies confirm these methods:
-
Sleeping on left sides: Compared to right-side sleeping, a research in The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology indicated that the left lateral position greatly lowered acid exposure.
-
Head position raised: Using bed risers or a wedge cushion, raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches. This produces a modest downhill slope that discourages reflux. Research indicates this may cut acid exposure by up to 75%.
Steers clear of:
-
Sleeping straight forward on your back
-
Using many normal pillows might strain the abdomen.
-
Not eating three hours before bed
How Tight Clothing and Acid Reflux Are Connected – And What You Can Do About It
Especially around the waist, tight clothes might raise intra-abdominal pressure and aggravate acid symptoms. Studies show that LES performance may be influenced even by little outside stimuli.
Suggestions comprise:
-
Particularly during meals, wear loose-fitting attire.
-
Steer clear of stiff waistbands and belts.
-
Select breathable, natural materials.
-
If suitable, think about using suspeners rather of belts.
How Gut Stress Treatment Can Ease Stress and GERD Symptoms
Though it doesn't directly lead to GERD, stress may aggravate symptoms by:
-
Increasing stomach acid generation
-
Slowing down of digestion
-
Sharpening awareness of discomfort and suffering
-
Encouragement of habits aggravating GERD (stress eating, inadequate sleep, etc.)
Evidence-based stress-reducing strategies for GERD consist in:
-
Meditation in mindfulness: Mindfulness-based stress reduction helped GERD symptoms and quality of life, according a 2020 research in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research.
-
Relaxation using progressive muscles: helps lower stress reaction and muscular tightness.
-
Exercises using deep breathing: Stronger diaphragm and maybe improved LES performance have been shown via diaphragmatic breathing.
-
Regular physical activity helps to maintain good digestion and lowers stress by modest amounts.
How Smoking and GERD Are Connected And Why It’s Worth Quitting
Smoking worsens GERD in many ways:
-
Reduces LES pressure and performance.
-
Lowers saliva production, hence neutralising acid.
-
Disturbs the digestive tract's protecting mucous membranes
-
Slows down esophageal tissue healing
Studies repeatedly find that smokers have more severe symptoms and have greater incidences of GERD. Within weeks, quitting smoking might provide notable relief in reflux problems.
Tools for quitting smoking consist in:
-
Replacement treatment for nicotine
-
Medications prescribed from prescriptions
-
Support programs for behaviour
-
Support groups (in-person or online)
-
Mobile applications meant for use while smokers quit
Gerd is a condition in which the return of gastric acid and enzymes from the stomach back to the esophagus occurs.
The esophagus does not have a protection layer from acidity as there is in the stomach, so backwash (acid reflux) from the stomach can cause damage to the esophagus wall and may even cause inflammation.
When the gastric juices come into contact with the esophagus wall, a feeling of heartburn is felt- this is a searing pain that arises from the sternum and may spread to the throat and neck.
Sometimes there is also pressure in the chest. Heartburn can be accompanied by an upcoming gastric content that reaches the mouth.
-
Hiatal hernia or weakening of lower esophageal sphincter (muscle around the bottom of the esophagus), what causes it not to close hermetically.
-
High consumption of fatty, fried, and acidic food.
-
Consumption of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and soft drinks.
-
Large meals with high food volume that enter the stomach at once.
-
Drinking fluids at the same time as eating.
-
Delayed emptying of the stomach for example in a diabetic state.
-
Various drugs, for example, antidepressants and anticholinergic drugs.
-
Bulimia, alcoholism or other conditions which cause vomiting.
-
Helicobactor Pylori infection.
-
Pregnancy - due to uterine pressure on the digestive system.
-
Overweight.
-
Low stomach acidity (hypochlorhydria).
Why Test Your Microbiome If you have Gerd?
Microbiome testing is becoming increasingly important in understanding and treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Here's why it matters in more relatable terms:
When your throat burns after eating, or you feel that sour taste creeping up, it's not just about excess acid or a faulty valve between your stomach and esophagus. Your gut's bacterial community might be stirring up trouble too.
In a healthy gut, beneficial bacteria thrive and keep the pathogenic one at bay. Researchers found that GERD patients’ microbiome often lack the good bacteria (like Lactobacillus) while unwanted species flourish, creating inflammation and worsening symptoms.
Testing your microbiome reveals which beneficial bacteria you're missing, which problematic bacteria are overgrowing and how these imbalances might be triggering or worsening your reflux.
With this information, treatments become more targeted. Instead of just taking acid reducers, you might:
-
Add specific probiotics that your system lacks.
-
Adjust your diet to feed the beneficial bacteria.
-
In severe cases, consider treatments that restore a healthier bacterial balance.
This approach helps address the root cause rather than just masking symptoms. It can prevent GERD from progressing to more serious conditions like Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer.
Perhaps most importantly, microbiome testing represents a shift toward personalized medicine. Since everyone's bacterial makeup is unique, understanding your specific imbalances allows for customized treatment plans that work better for your individual situation.
Conventional treatment
For GERD, conventional treatment typically includes medications to reduce stomach acid.
Antacids provide quick relief, while H2 blockers and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole reduce acid production for longer-term symptom management.
Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding acidic foods and not eating before bed, may also be recommended.
In severe cases, surgery may be considered to prevent reflux.
These treatments primarily focus on reducing acid rather than addressing the root cause of GERD. Long-term use of PPIs can lead to potential risks, such as nutrient malabsorption, dependency and increased infection risk.
FAQ
Have questions? We’ve gathered answers to some of the most common ones to help you on your wellness journey.
-
How do I prepare for a FREE virtual consultation for gastritis treatment natural?Simply find a quiet space with a stable internet connection. Have any recent health information or test results on hand, as well as any questions you’d like to discuss.
-
What is naturopathy, and how does it differ from conventional medicine?Naturopathy aims to address the root cause of health issues rather than just treating symptoms. It focuses on natural treatments and holistic healing, considering the body, mind, and spirit as a whole, not just in isolation.
-
What health issues can naturopathy consultations help with?Naturopathy can support a range of health issues, including digestive disorders, stress, hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, and chronic pain, among others. Valery
-
What should I expect during my first full consultation/ 90 minute session?In your first session we carry out a detailed consultation where we discuss your medical history, lifestyle, and wellness goals. This helps me create a personalised treatment plan that fits your needs and personal goals.
-
How long does it take to see results from naturopathic treatment?Results vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some clients notice improvement within a few weeks, while others may take longer for sustained changes.
-
Can naturopathy work alongside conventional medicine?Yes, naturopathy can complement conventional medicine, and we can work in collaboration with your healthcare providers to ensure a safe, integrated approach to your wellness.
-
How much does treatment cost?Your initial 90 minute consultation costs only £185, This is in inclusive of your personalised comprehensive treatment plan. It is then highly recommended to all clients you book onto the 3 follow up sessions that guide you through your treatment plan (£375 for 3 x 60 minute session). These follow up sessions are crucial in helping us to tailor the plan closer to your needs and preferences. They will allow you to comfortably implement the changes into your diet & lifestyle to ensure lasting results and help you overcome any challenges over the first few months with the most well-rounded support. Clients who require further support after this period can choose to book onto further sessions. Occasionally we might recommend YourGutMap Health Testing as part of your plan, these are not included as part of the treatment cost. The prices of the Gut Health Testing range varies by type and start from £200.