Gastroesophageal reflux happens when stomach contents move up where they don't belong. Acid blockers can relieve symptoms, but they don't fix the barrier problem — and long-term suppression has real trade-offs for digestion, nutrient absorption, and the microbiome. Some 'reflux' isn't even acid: bile reflux and functional heartburn behave differently and need different treatment.
I look at why you're refluxing: pressure dynamics, gastric emptying, hiatal hernia mechanics, SIBO-driven bloating pushing upward. Treatment can include targeted botanicals, motility and barrier support, dietary strategy, and a supervised, gradual plan if de-prescribing acid suppression is appropriate for you.
New patient visits in person in Portland or by telehealth. I've spent 18 years on complex GI cases — including my own.
