GI Health Review

Most people think acid reflux means too much stomach acid.

The research tells a different story.

In many cases, the real problem isn't acid production—it's the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve between your stomach and esophagus.

When the LES weakens or relaxes at the wrong times, acid escapes upward. That's reflux.

What causes LES dysfunction?
→ Certain foods and drinks
→ Increased abdominal pressure
→ Hiatal hernia
→ Chronic inflammation
→ And yes—sometimes too LITTLE stomach acid

PPIs treat the symptom. Understanding the mechanism helps you address the cause.

Your gut contains 100 trillion bacteria.

New research is revealing just how much they control—far beyond digestion.

A 2024 meta-analysis of 62 studies found that gut microbiome composition directly influences nutrient absorption, inflammatory response, stomach acid regulation, intestinal barrier function, and even esophageal health.

The connection between microbiome imbalance and reflux symptoms is becoming harder to ignore.