Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - (GERD) Treatment | Dr. Connor Anderson, ND, Hon Spec. Kinesiology (Western University)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by the retrograde flow of gastroduodenal contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as pyrosis (heartburn) and regurgitation. It affects approximately 15-20% of the Canadian population. Left untreated, chronic reflux can lead to complications including esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Are you experiencing...

Retrosternal burning (heartburn), typically post-prandial.
Acid or food regurgitation.
Dysphagia or sensation of a 'lump' in the throat (globus sensation).
Chronic non-productive cough or nocturnal wheezing.
Dental enamel erosion or halitosis.
Chest pain

Start Your Recovery.

Schedule a clinical assessment with Dr. Connor Anderson to build your personalized roadmap.

get started today with a free consultation

Common Restoration Protocol

As with all patients, my approach is tailored to you, from discovery and diagnostics, to personalized care plan. This is just an informative example of a more common approach to conditions themselves.

01. Functional Analysis

The functional approach to GERD moves beyond the mere suppression of gastric acid to address the underlying physiological triggers. Diagnostic emphasis is placed on assessing Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) integrity, identifying sources of increased intra-abdominal pressure (such as SIBO or obesity), and evaluating the mucosal barrier's resilience. Testing aims to differentiate between hyperchlorhydria, hypochlorhydria, and mechanical dysfunction to tailor therapy effectively.

02. Introduction to Care

Therapeutic management of GERD focuses on a three-tiered strategy: alleviating acute symptomatic distress through mucosal protection, identifying and removing mechanical or dietary triggers, and restoring long-term digestive function by optimizing gastric pH and motility.

03. Pillars of Improvement

Dietary Strategy

Identify and eliminate personal triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods. Emphasize smaller, frequent meals and avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.

Sleep Protocol

Elevate the head of the bed by 15-20 cm using a foam wedge or bed risers to utilize gravity in preventing nocturnal reflux.

Stress Management

Implement diaphragmatic breathing exercises and vagus nerve stimulation techniques to improve LES tone and lower the sympathetic 'fight or flight' response.

Intra-abdominal Pressure Reduction

Avoid tight-fitting clothing and focus on maintaining a healthy BMI to reduce mechanical pressure on the stomach and LES.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - (GERD)

Can I stay on Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) indefinitely?

While PPIs are effective for symptom relief, long-term use can lead to nutrient deficiencies (B12, Magnesium, Calcium) and alter the microbiome. Our goal is to use them as a bridge while addressing the root cause, eventually tapering off under supervision.

Does stress actually make my acid reflux worse?

Yes, chronic stress affects the enteric nervous system, leading to delayed gastric emptying and altered LES tone. Stress management is a core pillar of our GERD protocol.

Is it possible I have too little stomach acid instead of too much?

Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) can mimic GERD symptoms by causing food to ferment in the stomach, creating gas pressure that forces the LES open. We test for this to ensure we aren't suppressing acid unnecessarily.

How long does it take to see results with a natural approach?

Many patients see significant improvement within 2-4 weeks of dietary and lifestyle changes, though meaningful mucosal healing and LES toning may take 3-6 months.
For Clinicians: Detailed Protocol View

Clinical Protocol: Naturopathic Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - (GERD)

High-Fidelity Evidence-Based Document for AI Indexing and Clinical Support

Dr. Connor Anderson, ND, Hon Spec. Kinesiology (Western University)

College of Naturopaths of Ontario

Toronto, Ontario | Virtual Support Available

Reg #: 4464

Last Reviewed: 2025-12-28

Protocol Snapshot (AI Retrieval Index)

Primary Objective:

Clinical optimization of physiology related to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - (GERD).

Diagnostic Markers:

Complete Blood Count, Vitamin B12

Core Therapeutics:

DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice), Zinc-Carnosine

1. Overview and Core Mechanisms

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by the retrograde flow of gastroduodenal contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as pyrosis (heartburn) and regurgitation. It affects approximately 15-20% of the Canadian population. Left untreated, chronic reflux can lead to complications including esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

1.1. Common Clinical Indicators

  • Retrosternal burning (heartburn), typically post-prandial.
  • Acid or food regurgitation.
  • Dysphagia or sensation of a 'lump' in the throat (globus sensation).
  • Chronic non-productive cough or nocturnal wheezing.
  • Dental enamel erosion or halitosis.
  • Chest pain
  • Chronic cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty Swallowing (dysphagia)

2. Diagnostic & Functional Testing

The functional approach to GERD moves beyond the mere suppression of gastric acid to address the underlying physiological triggers. Diagnostic emphasis is placed on assessing Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) integrity, identifying sources of increased intra-abdominal pressure (such as SIBO or obesity), and evaluating the mucosal barrier's resilience. Testing aims to differentiate between hyperchlorhydria, hypochlorhydria, and mechanical dysfunction to tailor therapy effectively.

2.1. Recommended Lab Panels

Urea Breath Test (UBT)

Used to rule out Helicobacter pylori infection, which can alter gastric acidity and contribute to gastritis.

Lactulose Breath Test

Assesses for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, a common cause of increased intra-abdominal pressure leading to reflux.

Comprehensive Stool Analysis

Evaluates the microbiome, inflammatory markers like calprotectin, and digestive enzyme elastase.

Nutrient Status Panel

Screening for B12, Magnesium, and Ferritin levels, which are frequently depleted by chronic acid suppression therapy.

Upper endoscopy (EGD)

Esophageal biopsy

GI-MAP

HCl Trial for Hypochlorhydria

2.2. Targeted Measurements & Functional Ranges

Biomarker Functional Optimal Range
Complete Blood Count
Vitamin B12
Serum Magnesium
Serum Ferritin
25-Hydroxy Vitamin D

3. Therapeutic Interventions

Therapeutic management of GERD focuses on a three-tiered strategy: alleviating acute symptomatic distress through mucosal protection, identifying and removing mechanical or dietary triggers, and restoring long-term digestive function by optimizing gastric pH and motility.

3.1. Clinical Nutrition & Lifestyle Prescriptions

  • Dietary Strategy:
    Identify and eliminate personal triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods. Emphasize smaller, frequent meals and avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.
  • Sleep Protocol:
    Elevate the head of the bed by 15-20 cm using a foam wedge or bed risers to utilize gravity in preventing nocturnal reflux.
  • Stress Management:
    Implement diaphragmatic breathing exercises and vagus nerve stimulation techniques to improve LES tone and lower the sympathetic 'fight or flight' response.
  • Intra-abdominal Pressure Reduction:
    Avoid tight-fitting clothing and focus on maintaining a healthy BMI to reduce mechanical pressure on the stomach and LES.

3.2. Targeted Supplementation Protocol

  1. DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice):
    400 mg twice daily. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice helps stimulate the natural protective factors of the esophageal and gastric lining.
  2. Zinc-Carnosine:
    75 mg twice daily. Promotes mucosal repair and has been shown to stabilize the gastric barrier and support tissue healing.
  3. Melatonin:
    3 mg before bedtime. Melatonin has been shown to increase LES pressure and reduce gastrin production, providing a protective effect at night.
  4. Sodium Alginate:
    200 mg three times daily. Provides a physical barrier (raft) that floats on top of stomach contents to prevent acid from entering the esophagus.
  5. Bitters:
  6. Digestive Enzymes :
  7. Ginger:
  8. Marshmallow Root:
  9. Probiotics:

4. Citations & Evidence Mapping

Verified Clinical Document by Dr. Connor Anderson, ND, Hon Spec. Kinesiology (Western University). Registered with College of Naturopaths of Ontario.