Gastroesophageal Reflux (GORD/GERD)


​Acid Reflux is a condition in which the acid contents of your stomach wash back up into the oesphagus.  This happens because a valve at the end of your oesophagus does not close properly when food arrives into the stomach.  The acid then flows back upwards into your throat.

Acid reflux happens to many people at some point.  Pregnancy is a time when a lot of women will experience reflux due to the pressure in the abdomen, which will mostly self resolve post partum.  However, for many, regular episodes of acid reflux is the first sign of an under-functioning digestive system.

GORD/GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a related but more serious condition in which the acid contents of the stomach persistently regurgitate back up into the oesophagus.

As the development of GORD is often multifactorial, identifying the key contributing factors is necessary to address and improve gut function, and reflux symptoms.  Mechanisms that are associated with GORD include: Lower oesophageal sphincter dysfunction, oesophageal clearance, mucosal resistance, delayed gastric emptying, and the presence of a hiatal hernia or acid pocket.  

Generally diagnosis is made through clinical symptoms and the response to acid suppressing medications, and diagnostic tests such as upper endoscopy.
From a naturopathic perspective, we want to work on a number of therapeutic goals:

  • Provide symptomatic relief
  • Soothe and heal the oesphagus
  • Reduce oesophageal inflammation
  • Promote lower oesophageal sphincter tone
  • Promote gastric emptying
  • Support for the nervous system, and stress reduction
  • Increase antioxidant status to reduce risk of complications
  • Address contributing dietary factors ie; food sensitivities
  • Address contributing lifestyle factors ie; healthy body weight
  • Address nutrient deficiencies associated with medications (if necessary)

Vanessa Winter
BHSc, BEd, Dip.Nat., Dip.Herb.Med., NMHNZ
​SmartGENES Naturopathic Clinic