Reflux and GERD - It Might Not Be What You Think

Written By Alexander Dold L.Ac
 

The Common Assumption: Too Much Stomach Acid

Most people — and even many healthcare providers — assume acid reflux and heartburn happen because the stomach produces too much acid. This is one of the most common myths about digestive health. The burning, uncomfortable sensation after eating seems like a sign of excess acid, but the truth is often not what you would expect.

The Big Mistake: Suppressing Acid

If you’ve ever reached for antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or acid blockers, you’re not alone. These are among the most commonly used remedies for heartburn. But here’s the problem: if high stomach acid is not the real cause, these medications may worsen your symptoms over time by further reducing your natural acid levels.

The Surprising Truth: Low Stomach Acid Can Cause Reflux

It may sound counterintuitive, but too little stomach acid can actually trigger reflux. When your stomach acid levels drop, digestion slows down and pressure builds up in the stomach. This can cause acid — even in small amounts — to push up into the esophagus, leading to that all-too-familiar burning sensation.

How Low Acid Leads to That Burning Sensation

Here’s what could be causing your reflux: the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) acts like a door between your stomach and esophagus. When acid levels are optimal, that door stays tightly closed. But when acid is low, the LES becomes weak or “loose,” allowing acid to escape upward. The result? Heartburn, indigestion, and reflux — even though your stomach acid is too low, not too high.

The Downward Spiral: What Happens When You Lower Acid Even More

When acid-suppressing medications are used long-term, they can create a vicious cycle. Less acid means poorer digestion, which can lead to bloating, nutrient deficiencies (especially B12, iron, and magnesium), and even mood changes linked to gut health. Over time, this can impact your energy levels, immunity, and overall well-being.

Why Proper Digestion Depends on Healthy Acid Levels

Stomach acid plays a critical role in your body’s ability to break down protein, absorb key nutrients, and protect against harmful bacteria. When acid levels are balanced, your digestive system works smoothly — supporting everything from your gut microbiome to your mental

 

FAQs

  • Here’s what could be causing your reflux: the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) acts like a door between your stomach and esophagus. When acid levels are optimal, that door stays tightly closed. But when acid is low, the LES becomes weak or “loose,” allowing acid to escape upward. The result? Heartburn, indigestion, GERD, and reflux — even though your stomach acid is too low, not too high.

  • Electroacupuncture can treat GERD by increasing lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, which prevents stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. It also improves esophageal motility by reducing the frequency of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) and may help calm nerve hypersensitivity in the esophagus, thereby reducing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation

  • How electroacupuncture may help reflux

    Improves LES function: Electroacupuncture (EA) may increase LES pressure, helping to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

    Reduces reflux episodes: It has been shown in studies to reduce the frequency of transient lower esophageal relaxations, which are a major cause of reflux.

    Aids digestion: EA can help regulate digestive timing, moving food through the stomach and intestines more efficiently, which may reduce acid buildup.

    Improves gastric function: Studies show EA can improve gastric accommodation (the stomach's ability to expand) and normalize esophageal contractions.

    Modulates vagal activity: The vagus nerve plays a role in many of the functions related to reflux, and EA has been shown to enhance vagal activity, which may help with symptoms

 
 
Alexander Dold L.Ac
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