Do you experience any of the following?

• Heartburn: Burning sensation in the throat, chest, neck, or back

• Regurgitation

• Belching

• Chest pain (similar to angina)

• Chronic cough

• Chronic sore throat

• Bad breath

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or heartburn refers to conditions where contents of the stomach or small intestine repeatedly enters the esophagus. Heartburn is the symptom of burning and discomfort that occurs when stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus. Normally, a sphincter (valve) that sits between the stomach and esophagus prevents this from happening. However, various conditions including diet and lifestyle can cause reflux to occur. When it is untreated and continues to happen on a regular, long-term basis the lining of the esophagus can become damaged leading to further medical complications.

The most common class of drugs given for this problem are antacids, proton pump inhibitors and H2-receptor blockers, all of which use different means to reduce stomach acid. For some people this approach can be very effective, but for others it leads to further complications such as decreased nutrient absorption (such as vitamin B12), increased risk of H.pylori infections or masking other gastrointestinal diseases. Most importantly, treatment with these drugs often does not address the root cause of GERD in the first place, leading to ongoing drug use for many years.

Naturopathic Medicine focuses on healing the lining of the esophagus and treating symptoms through nutrition, lifestyle modifications and digestive support. This may include botanical medicine and supplementation. Identifying reflux triggers, food sensitivities and physical causes is key to long-term recovery and prevention.

Testing Options

• An in depth initial consultation will help assess potential causes from diet, medications, medical conditions and physical/lifestyle factors.
• IgG Food Allergy Testing to assess food sensitivities that may be contributing to inflammation of the stomach and small intestine.
• H.pylori breath or blood test to assess for bacterial infection that may be contributing to digestive symptoms if ulcer is suspected.
• Celiac Disease testing

Please call the clinic at 416.738.6757 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information or to book an appointment.