Acid reflux occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter fails to close fully, allowing stomach acid to flow upwards into the oesophagus and sometimes the throat. It causes a characteristic burning sensation (heartburn), sour or bitter taste in the mouth, regurgitation, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. Triggers include large meals, lying down after eating, fatty or spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus, smoking, obesity, and pregnancy.

What lifestyle changes can help with acid reflux?

Avoid lying down within 3 hours of eating. Elevate the head of the bed for nocturnal symptoms. Identify and reduce dietary triggers (coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, chocolate, fatty meals). Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Reduce excess weight if relevant. Stop smoking.

What integrative approaches support acid reflux?

GORD affects approximately 20% of the Western population. Lifestyle modification has moderate evidence for symptom reduction. Proton pump inhibitors have strong evidence for GORD management. Low-acid dietary approaches show emerging evidence. Alginate-based preparations have good evidence for post-meal reflux.

When should I seek professional support for acid reflux?

Symptoms occurring more than twice per week Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing Unexplained weight loss alongside reflux symptoms Symptoms unresponsive to over-the-counter antacids Black or tarry stools (possible GI bleeding)

digestiveAlternativeComplementaryHolistic

Acid Reflux

A burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid rising into the oesophagus. One of the most common digestive symptoms, often associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

Understand what may be causing this

Reviewed by Dr. Ciara Magee · Integrative Midwifery26 March 2026High Evidence

Quick answer

Acid reflux (ICD-10: R12 Heartburn; ICD-11: MD90.3) is characterised by retrograde flow of gastric acid into the oesophagus, causing burning and regurgitation. Associated with GORD, hiatus hernia, and dietary factors. Evidence supports lifestyle modification, alginate preparations, and PPI therapy. Holistic approaches include DGL, aloe vera, and dietary adjustment.

Recognition