What is the truth? Please Read

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NYCman

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What is the truth?

Some posters say that the cause of GERD is too much acid. Others say that the cause of GERD is not enough acid (they recommend taking Apple Cider Vinegar among other things).

I am new to GERD (about 6 months), and would like to know as much as I can so that I can eliminate it from my life.

Please provide your reply or at least your theory so that we may all benefit. Thank You very much.
 
This is the Mayo Clinic's definition of GERD:
GERD, also known as acid reflux, is a condition in which stomach aciRAB or bile salts back up into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) producing a burning sensation behind the breastbone and esophageal irritation or inflammation. Normally, acid is trapped in the stomach by a circular band of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which remains closed except when swallowing. If the sphincter relaxes abnormally or becomes weakened, stomach acid tenRAB to back up, causing symptoms of heartburn. This can also be exacerbated by the presence of a hiatal hernia (when part of the stomach is protruding through the diaphragm and into the chest).

Research and talking to your doctor will help you out a lot.
 
GERD would be typically defined as too much acid. After all, the acronym is about Refluxing (acid) Disease. But, as far as the symptoms go, burning, inflamation, etc... both too much or too little acid can be the cause. Thus, when you read people state too little acid as the cause of GERD, they mean to say, too little acid could be the cause of your symptoms (which appear to be; and are similar to symptoms as defined by GERD).

What we are dealing with pertains to the PH balance in your stomach, either too high (acidic) or to low (alkaline). Both can cause similar symptoms. Just recognize some people will use the term GERD interchangeably because the symptoms are similar. If we can find the cause of these conditions we hope to cure the problem . Ex. Why is my stomach too acidic (or alkaline) and causing these symptoms? That is the tough question we all want answered with the hopes of then finding a cure.

One thought for too little acid is as you age, the acid production is suppose to decrease. Thus some peoples problems could be caused by to little acid and taking the acid suppressing medication is not helpful, or even harmful. Thus, you hear recommended suggestions like apple cider vinegar, and probiotics and digestive enzymes.

But some peoples problems are too much acid, and the various acid suppressing medications are helpful. Taking probiotics and digetive enymes can still be good for this too.

A PH probe study from your doctor is the best way to identify what side of the acid/alkaline balance you lie on.
 
So, hypothetically, based on what this PH test says, will I know whether I should/could eat more or less oranges, chocolate, etc?
 
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