Why Your Stomach is on Fire — A Natural Path to Ending Acid Reflux and GERD
What Happens When Indulgence Strikes?
We’ve all been there — a dinner party or restaurant meal where discipline slips. The rich, greasy, or spicy dish tastes amazing, but hours later, you feel the price: stomach discomfort, a burning sensation in your throat, and an acidic taste in your mouth. That’s acid reflux — and if it keeps happening, it can progress to GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
Beyond food triggers, acid reflux and GERD can be caused by an H. pylori infection, a loose lower esophageal sphincter from hiatal hernia, excess abdominal pressure from weight gain or pregnancy, certain medications, smoking, alcohol, and chronic stress. These factors disrupt the normal digestive flow, allowing acid to rise into the esophagus.
A TCM Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acid reflux and GERD stem from literally “fire” in your stomach and imbalances in the Liver, Spleen, and Stomach.
Rich, greasy, spicy foods and/or infection generate Heat in these organs, disrupting the natural upward and downward movement of Qi and Blood, causing Heat and acid to rise toward the throat.
Common TCM Patterns:
Stomach Fire/Liver Stagnation: Heartburn, bitter taste, irritability
Spleen Qi Deficiency with Stomach Imbalance: Acid reflux, bloating, poor appetite
Phlegm-Damp Accumulation: Nausea, heaviness in chest/stomach, sticky tongue coat
Acupuncture for Relief
Acupuncture can balance the nervous system in the body, creating harmony between the gut and the brain, and reducing stress. It can reduce inflammation and acid caused by poor nutritional choices, lack of exercise, and stress. Acupuncture also improves the motility of the esophagus, allowing Qi and Blood to descend properly.
Herbal Support
Digest Formula contains herbs such as Pinellia, which reduces reflux action, and Hawthorn berry, which stimulates digestive enzyme production, thereby reducing excess acid production. With these herbs, the Digest Formula harmonizes the Spleen and stomach, relieves reflux, nausea, bloating, and clears Dampness.
Supplemental Support
Excess stomach acid often results from reduced digestive enzymes. PhytoNzyme Pro contains plant-based, critical enzymes—galactosidase for carbohydrates, lipase for fats, protease for proper protein digestion, and probiotics.
Super Probiotics contains 40+ billion CFUs to restore healthy gut flora, support digestion, reduce fatigue, and even improve mood and skin.
Berberine is a natural herb extract that has been found to inhibit H. Pylori and other microbes and reduce inflammation, which may contribute to acid reflux and GERD.
Healing Foods
Include high-fiber foods in your diet to lower pressure on the esophageal sphincter. Try oat bran or Prebiotic Fiber Plus, which contains acacia, psyllium, and aloe. Eat sweet potato, yams, banana, brown rice, oatmeal, fennel, leafy greens, ginger, and melons for their healing and acid-reducing properties. Avoid mint, citrus, coffee, tea, wine, vinegar, spicy, and deep-fried foods, which can aggravate reflux.
Exercise
Avoid lying flat or doing intense workouts right after eating. Practice Self-Healing Qi Gong (focusing on Liver & Stomach meridians) to support digestion and energy flow. Wear loose clothing to avoid abdominal pressure.
Emotional Regulation
Include meditation in your day. Try Meditation for Stress Release daily to calm the nervous system and reduce acid release. Practice deep breathing, shifting the body from “fight-or-flight” to “rest-and-digest.” Prioritize quality sleep for optimal digestion.
Final Takeaway
Acid reflux and GERD aren’t just discomfort — they’re signals of underlying imbalance. By combining TCM therapies (acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle changes) with targeted herbs and supplements, you can cool the digestive fire, restore harmony, and enjoy meals without regret.
Next Steps
If reflux impacts your quality of life, schedule a consultation with a Tao of Wellness doctor to create your personalized healing plan.