Hormonal Causes – Insufficient stomach acid and digestive enzyme production leads to undigested protein sitting in the stomach. This undigested protein putrifies, or rots, and releases organic acids that contribute to heartburn. Taking antacids does reduce the burning experiences from the rotting proteins and relieves symptoms but does little to address the underlying problem. Antacids are currently the number-one selling medication in the United States. Evaluating and correcting stress hormones through diet, lifestyle changes, stress management and supplement programs can restore normal stomach acid production.

Digestive Causes – In addition to stomach acidity, gluten and cow’s milk dairy sensitivities can trigger heartburn. Furthermore, overeating, lying down after large meals, and emotional stress can all lead to an improper function of the valve between the stomach and esophagus. Incomplete closing of that valve will lead to the symptoms of heartburn as the contents of the stomach come in contact with the delicate tissue of the esophagus.

A common bacterial infection of the stomach called helicobacter pylori destroys the parietal cells in the stomach lining that produce hydrochloric acid. Without sufficient stomach acid we won’t properly digest protein. Bacteria and parasites that come into the stomach from the foods we eat are also destroyed by the proper acidity of the stomach.

Detoxification Causes – Improper protein digestion leads to protein putrifaction. This undigested protein leads to the release of 33 known carcinogenic compounds into the bloodstream. The toxic compounds then need to be eliminated from the body putting a large burden on the liver, which may not be able to cope.

Testing – If simple changes in nutrition and lifestyle habits do not ease symptoms it is likely that a stool and or saliva test for parasites (e.g. H. pylori) will be required. Adrenal hormones may also have become imbalanced because H. pylori and other parasites always cause inflammation in the gut, leading to adrenal stress.