Heartburn Isn’t What You Think - Why Low Stomach Acid is the Real Problem
APRIL 13, 2025 | LLOYD PHAST

It’s common for many who suffer from heartburn to misinterpret the burning sensation symptoms as having excessive stomach acid but heartburn isn’t what you think.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid and undigested food flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation, heartburn, and discomfort.
The Alarming Reality: Who’s Affected?
GERD is more common than you think. Over 20% of Americans suffer from GERD, with millions experiencing daily discomfort. Left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications, including:
- Esophageal damage (leading to ulcers and inflammation)
- Increased risk of esophageal cancer
- Chronic respiratory issues like asthma and persistent cough
The Truth About GERD: It’s NOT Too Much Stomach Acid!
One of the biggest myths about GERD is that it’s caused by too much stomach acid. The reality? It’s actually caused by too little stomach acid! Your stomach requires a highly acidic environment (pH 1-3) to break down food properly. When acid levels are too low, food stagnates in the stomach. Not to get this confused with low fluid volume. Individuals with GERD may have enough fluid levels in the stomach to saturate food, however the pH level of that fluid volume is still not acidic enough to break down food effectively eventually leading to bacterial fermentation. This process produces excess gas, bloating, and acid reflux, which mimics the sensation of too much acid. Over time, GERD erodes the esophageal sphincter, making acid reflux even worse.
Natural Solutions to Heal GERD
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Gut Repair
- Skip breakfast for three days and eat your first meal at 12 PM to give your gut time to heal.
- Each morning, take 2 tablespoons of extra virgin, cold-pressed olive oil with 2 cups of water on an empty stomach.
- Why? Olive oil reduces inflammation and supports the GI tract’s healing process.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar to Boost Digestion
- Take one tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar in a cup of water after meals.
- Why? Apple cider vinegar has a similar pH to stomach acid and helps stimulate natural acid production for better digestion.
3. Eliminate Trigger Foods
The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) is a leading cause of GERD. Avoid:
- Refined grains: rice, bread, pasta, cereal, wheat
- Processed snacks: chips, crackers, pastries
- Sugary foods and beverages
- Fried and greasy foods
Instead, fuel your body with gut-friendly foods rich in digestive enzymes and fiber:
- Papaya
- Pineapple
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Ginger
- Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi)
Your Journey to a GERD-Free Life Starts Now!
GERD doesn’t have to control your life. By addressing the real cause low stomach acid and implementing these natural solutions, you can experience lasting relief and better overall health.
Ready to Take Control of Your Health?
Discover more powerful, science-backed strategies in our new book, The Nutrition Effect, by Lloyd Phast available now on Amazon, click here to shop now! This essential guide is packed with easy-to-follow health tips to help you overcome chronic conditions and reclaim your wellbeing!
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