Why Acid Reflux Isn’t Just an Acid Problem I The Functional Code Podcast

Why does reflux happen?In episode 2 of our Organ Series, Dr. Jace and Dr. Addy break down the esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter, GERD, reflux, heartburn, PPIs, antacids, hiatal hernias, and the deeper mechanics of digestion.This episode explains the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, as the “bouncer” at the bottom of the esophagus. Food should move down into the stomach, and the LES should close behind it. But when the LES opens too often, loses tone, or becomes overwhelmed by pressure, acid can move back up into the esophagus and create burning, irritation, and discomfort.The major reframe in this episode: GERD is not always just an acid problem. It is often a pressure problem.Dr. Jace and Dr. Addie discuss how obesity, central belly pressure, late meals, large portions, hiatal hernias, weak vagal tone, poor breathing patterns, and poor gastric mechanics can all contribute to reflux.They also cover practical tools that may help support reflux and digestion, including the 3-hour rule before bed, left-side sleeping, chewing more thoroughly, walking after meals, hydration timing, belly breathing, digestive bitters, apple cider vinegar, DGL, slippery elm, marshmallow root, nasal breathing, breathwork, and stress reduction.In this episode, we cover:The esophagus and lower esophageal sphincterThe LES as the “bouncer” of the stomachGERD, reflux, heartburn, and acid exposureWhy PPIs were not designed as a forever fixHow the diaphragm supports the LESHiatal hernias and reflux mechanicsWhy reflux is often a pressure problemCentral adiposity and belly pressureHow weight loss can improve reflux symptomsMeal timing and the 3-hour ruleLeft-side sleeping for nighttime refluxChewing, bloating, and swallowed airWalking after meals and gastric emptyingHydration timing around mealsBelly breathing and vagal toneDigestive bitters and GLP-1 signalingApple cider vinegar and low-acid theoryDGL, slippery elm, and marshmallow rootBreathwork, nasal breathing, and stress regulationWhen reflux symptoms need medical evaluationKey takeaway:The goal is not just to reduce acid. The goal is to improve the mechanics that keep acid where it belongs.If reflux is driven by pressure, timing, stress, weak LES tone, or poor digestion mechanics, then the solution has to go deeper than simply suppressing stomach acid.Follow The Functional Code:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalcodeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFunctionalCodeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3aY5zkhwg5Rzk2q33cbIlfApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-functional-code-podcast/id1754585557Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.