Why Do I Have Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when the muscle that separates your stomach from your esophagus — called the esophageal sphincter — becomes weak or relaxed, allowing stomach acid to flow upward. This backflow causes that familiar burning sensation known as heartburn.

Several factors can contribute to acid reflux, including:

  • Diet choices: Foods high in caffeine, spicy or fatty foods, chocolate, citrus, and vinegar can trigger symptoms.
  • Eating habits: Large meals or eating too close to bedtime often worsen reflux.
  • Health conditions: Obesity and pregnancy can increase pressure on the stomach, pushing acid upward.
  • Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol, and stress may also weaken the esophageal sphincter.

What Does Acid Reflux Feel Like?

The most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation that starts in the chest and may move up to the throat. Other symptoms can include:

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
  • Bloating or stomach fullness
  • Difficulty swallowing

If you experience these symptoms two or more times per week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic form of acid reflux. Left untreated, GERD can lead to inflammation, esophagitis, or even esophageal cancer.

When Should I See a Professional for Acid Reflux?

You should seek professional help if acid reflux is frequent, interferes with your quality of life, or doesn’t improve with diet changes.
At Zen Attitude Acupuncture, our team takes a holistic and integrative approach to care. We focus on identifying the root cause of your acid reflux and developing a treatment plan that restores balance and supports long-term healing.

Our team includes licensed acupuncturists and naturopathic doctors who use natural, gentle therapies to reduce symptoms and improve digestion.

Natural Therapies for Acid Reflux Relief

Your personalized acid reflux treatment plan at Zen Attitude Acupuncture may include:

  • Nutritional counseling: A custom diet plan to reduce acid triggers and support healing of the stomach and esophagus.
  • Acupuncture: Helps regulate digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.
  • Homeopathic and vitamin injections: Target nutrient deficiencies and support overall wellness.
  • Craniosacral therapy: Encourages deep relaxation and enhances the body’s natural healing process.

Our goal is to help you restore digestive harmony, reduce discomfort, and feel more balanced from the inside out.

Find Your Zen — Naturally

At Zen Attitude Acupuncture, we help you discover natural solutions for acid reflux so you can live and feel your best.
📞 Call today or schedule your consultation online at experiencezenattitude.com

Reduces or eliminates heartburn symptoms
Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
Promotes long-term gut and esophageal health
Decreases reliance on acid-blocking medications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acid reflux be cured naturally?

Many people experience long-term relief through natural approaches such as nutrition counseling, herbal remedies, and gut health support.

When should I seek professional treatment?

If you have frequent heartburn, trouble sleeping due to reflux, or rely on antacids regularly, it’s time to seek a tailored treatment plan.

Can stress make acid reflux worse?

Yes, stress can aggravate reflux by increasing stomach acid production and tightening abdominal muscles, which may push acid upward.