Re: What is the truth? Please Read
GERD would be typically defined as too much acid. After all, the acronym is about Refluxing (acid) Disease. But, as far as the symptoms go, burning, inflamation, etc... both too much or too little acid can be the cause. Thus, when you read people state too little acid as the cause of GERD, they mean to say, too little acid could be the cause of your symptoms (which appear to be; and are similar to symptoms as defined by GERD).
What we are dealing with pertains to the PH balance in your stomach, either too high (acidic) or to low (alkaline). Both can cause similar symptoms. Just recognize some people will use the term GERD interchangeably because the symptoms are similar. If we can find the cause of these conditions we hope to cure the problem . Ex. Why is my stomach too acidic (or alkaline) and causing these symptoms? That is the tough question we all want answered with the hopes of then finding a cure.
One thought for too little acid is as you age, the acid production is suppose to decrease. Thus some peoples problems could be caused by to little acid and taking the acid suppressing medication is not helpful, or even harmful. Thus, you hear recommended suggestions like apple cider vinegar, and probiotics and digestive enzymes.
But some peoples problems are too much acid, and the various acid suppressing medications are helpful. Taking probiotics and digetive enymes can still be good for this too.
A PH probe study from your doctor is the best way to identify what side of the acid/alkaline balance you lie on.
Last edited by Beeb; 04-06-2009 at 10:04 AM.