Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

What Does It Mean?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to irritation, discomfort, and long-term complications if untreated. Functional Medicine seeks to identify the root causes of GERD, including digestive dysfunction, food sensitivities, and microbiome imbalances, to address symptoms effectively and promote gut health.

How Did We Get There?

Root Causes:

Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria) – Insufficient stomach acid impairs digestion, leading to reflux.
Gut Dysbiosis & SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) – Imbalanced gut flora can contribute to bloating and reflux.
Hiatal Hernia & Structural Issues – Anatomical abnormalities can impair proper stomach function.
Food Sensitivities & Poor Diet – Gluten, dairy, processed foods, and high-fat meals can exacerbate symptoms.
Obesity & Increased Abdominal Pressure – Excess weight can worsen reflux symptoms.
Chronic Stress & Nervous System Imbalance – Stress weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to rise.

Signs & Symptoms:

Heartburn and acid reflux
Chronic cough or sore throat
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Bloating and belching
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
Chest discomfort that worsens after eating

How Do We Treat It?

A Functional Medicine approach focuses on restoring gut integrity, optimizing stomach acid levels, reducing inflammation, and identifying food triggers to address the underlying causes of GERD.

Supplement Protocol

Supplement	Function	Dosage & Frequency
Advanced Vita-Biotic R	Supports gut microbiome and immune function	1 capsule with food, daily
Endura	Hydration and electrolyte balance	1 packet with or without food, three times daily
D-Mannose Powder	Supports urinary tract health	1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily
Vita-Candid	Antifungal support and microbiome balance	2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily
Vita Defense	Immune system support	1 capsule without food, daily
Vita DIM	Supports estrogen metabolism	2 capsules with or without food, daily
CoQ-10 300 mg	Mitochondrial energy and cardiovascular support	2 capsules with food, daily
Vita-Digestyzyme	Aids digestion and nutrient absorption	2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice, daily
V-Inflamma	Anti-inflammatory and immune regulation	1 capsule without food, daily
Vita B Methyl	Methylation and energy metabolism	1 capsule without food, daily
V-Pax	Neurological and stress response support	2 capsules with food, twice daily
Pyloricil	Supports gastric and gut health	1 capsule without food, daily
Vita-Glutathione	Detoxification and antioxidant support	1 capsule with or without food, daily
Magnesium	Muscle relaxation and nervous system support	2 capsule with or without food, daily
Gluta Protect	Gut lining protection and immune balance	1 scoop of powder without food, daily
V-Collagen	Connective tissue and gut healing support	1 scoop of powder without food, daily
SBI Powder	Supports gut immune function	1 scoop of powder in cold liquids, daily
Vita Microbe	Probiotic support for gut health	3 capsules with or without food, daily
Vita Buffered C Powder	Antioxidant and immune system support	¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily
Vita-Biotic	Supports immune and gut microbiome	4 capsule without food, daily
Vita-Flux	Cardiovascular and nitric oxide support	2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, three times daily

Additional Lifestyle Interventions:

Dietary Modifications: Avoid trigger foods such as spicy foods, citrus, caffeine, and alcohol.
Meal Timing & Portion Control: Eat smaller meals and avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime.
Optimize Stomach Acid: Consider apple cider vinegar or digestive enzymes before meals.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduce excess abdominal pressure through weight management.
Improve Posture & Sleep Positioning: Elevate the head of the bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
Manage Stress & Support Nervous System Balance: Incorporate mindfulness, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques.