Posted 12/11/2014 5:25 PM (GMT 0)
My understanding is as follows: GERD is a symptom, perhaps of many disorders, but definitely a symptom of a digestive problem. This problem in some people may be too little acid, but it is still enough to burn your esophagus, so acid-reducing meds are prescribed. Over time the digestive problem gets worse, because we need adequate acid to digest our food. I have gradually improved through use of Norm Robillard's Fast Tract diet, which educated me about eating foods that are more easily digested. He also talks about SIBO, which didn't make as much sense to me, but I have definitely improved my digestive health. Gas pushing food into my esophagus caused my heartburn, so I sometimes use Bean- o to aid digestion, or Gas-x to get rid of gas. I also take a TUMS if I have a moment of heartburn, which gives me immediate relief. H pylori can be another problem, I was tested and don't have that problem.