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.