3 Ways to Fix Burning Stomach

3 Root Causes of Burning Stomach1. Pressure2. Poor digestion and resulting fermentation3. Irritated stomach liningIn this episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains 3 reasons why an acidic stomach develops and what you can do to dramatically improve your symptoms.Most “acid stomach” symptoms are driven by pressure pushing contents upward, not acid being overproduced. Key drivers:Increased intra-abdominal pressureHiatal herniaConstipationCentral weight gainTight diaphragm / poor breathing mechanicsWhen pressure rises, acid moves where it shouldn’t.If pressure inside the abdomen rises, acid gets pushed upward. That’s when it burns.What actually lowers pressure:Stop overeating (smaller meals)Eat slowerFix constipationReduce bloating triggersPractice diaphragmatic breathingDon’t lie down within 2–3 hours of eatingThis alone has the potential to resolve symptoms for many people.Improve Digestion so Food doesn’t Sit and FermentIf food sits too long:It fermentsGas formsPressure risesReflux followsWhat can fix this:Chew thoroughlyAvoid constant snackingSpace meals 4–5 hours apartSupport motility (walking after meals)Identify food triggersAcid suppression does not fix fermentation.Calm the Irritated LiningSometimes the acid is normal — the lining is just sensitive.Common irritants:NSAIDsAlcoholUltra-processed foodsHigh sugar dietChronic stressH. pylori infection (bacteria in stomach)What helps:Remove irritantsShort-term targeted support (not lifelong suppression)  - e.g. antacidImprove sleepLower stressRestore gut barrier functionIf you feel like your stomach has too much acid, here’s the truth — most of the time it’s not too much acid.It’s pressure.It’s poor digestion creating gas.Or it’s an irritated lining that’s become sensitive.Lower the pressure.Improve digestion.Calm the inflammation.That fixes the cause — not just the symptom.References:1. Pandolfino et al., 2006 "High-resolution manometry of the EGJ: evidence of a pressure gradient driving reflux" Gastroenterology2. Kahrilas et al., 2012 "The acid pocket and its role in GERD", American Journal of Gastroenterology3. Penagini et al., 1998 "Mechanisms of postprandial gastroesophageal reflux in humans", Gastroenterology4. Wu et al., 2004 "Overeating and GERD symptoms" American Journal of Gastroenterology5. Parkman et al., 2004 "Delayed gastric emptying in GERD" American Journal of Gastroenterology6. Piche et al., 2003 "Colonic fermentation influences LES relaxation" Gastroenterology7. Freedberg et al., 2015 "The impact of PPIs on the gut microbiome", Gastroenterology8. Imhann et al., 2016 "Proton pump inhibitors affect gut microbiome", Gut9. Vanuytsel et al., 2014 "Psychological stress and intestinal barrier function" Gut10. Fass et al., 2001 "Functional heartburn: acid is not always the cause" Gastroenterology#acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video.The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause.&