Acidity

Functional Medicine Approach to Acidity

Understanding Acidity

Acidity, commonly known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. While occasional acid reflux is normal, frequent episodes can significantly impact quality of life and may lead to complications if left untreated.

A Root-Cause Approach to Acidity

Functional Medicine takes a patient-centered, systems-based approach to addressing health concerns. Instead of just managing symptoms, this method focuses on identifying and treating the underlying causes of acidity, considering factors such as diet, lifestyle, gut health, and stress.

Comprehensive Assessment

A thorough evaluation is the first step in understanding what contributes to acid reflux. Key factors assessed include:

• Dietary Triggers – Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can worsen symptoms.
• Eating Habits – Irregular meal times, overeating, and late-night snacking may contribute to acid reflux.
• Stress Levels – Chronic stress can disrupt digestion and increase acid production.
• Gut Health – Imbalances in the gut microbiome or low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) can play a role in reflux.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on individual assessments, a targeted treatment plan is developed, incorporating:

✔ Dietary Adjustments – A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats while eliminating potential trigger foods.
✔ Lifestyle Modifications – Structured meal timings, mindful eating, weight management strategies, and avoiding lying down after meals.
✔ Stress Management Techniques – Practices like meditation, breathwork, and yoga to regulate digestion and reduce stress-related reflux.
✔ Gut Health Optimization – The use of probiotics and prebiotics to balance gut bacteria and improve digestion. In cases of low stomach acid, appropriate natural supplements may be considered.
✔ Sleep Hygiene Practices – Adjusting sleep positions, such as elevating the head of the bed, to prevent nighttime reflux.
✔ Herbal & Nutritional Support – Natural remedies such as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), slippery elm, and aloe vera to soothe the esophageal lining and reduce inflammation.

Ongoing Support & Monitoring

Healing requires ongoing adjustments and personalized guidance. Continuous monitoring ensures that treatment remains effective, helping individuals achieve long-term relief and improved digestive health.

Why Choose a Functional Medicine Approach?

• Personalized Care – Treatment is tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
• Root-Cause Focus – The goal is to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to acidity.
• Science-Backed Solutions – Combining modern diagnostic tools with natural interventions for long-term health.
• Empowerment Through Education – Patients gain the knowledge and tools needed to manage their digestive health effectively.

For those experiencing persistent acidity and seeking sustainable relief, a Functional Medicine approach offers a comprehensive path to better digestive health and overall well-being.