Reflux & Heartburn

Looking Beyond Symptom Relief

If you're experiencing ongoing reflux, heartburn or acid reflux, you're not alone. These symptoms are incredibly common, but they shouldn't simply be accepted as a normal part of daily life.

Many people rely on medications or avoid more and more foods in an attempt to manage their symptoms, yet continue to experience flare-ups. In many cases, there may be underlying factors contributing to reflux that deserve further investigation.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD or GORD), occurs when stomach contents travel back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.

Symptoms can include:

  • Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest

  • Acid regurgitation or a sour taste in the mouth

  • Frequent burping or belching

  • Upper abdominal discomfort

  • Nausea

  • A chronic cough

  • Hoarseness or frequent throat clearing

  • A sensation of a lump in the throat

  • Symptoms that worsen after eating or when lying down

Some people experience reflux only occasionally, while others develop chronic symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.

Why Does Reflux Happen?

While acid reflux is often assumed to be caused by excess stomach acid, the reality is often far more complex.

Digestive symptoms rarely have a single cause, and understanding what may be contributing to your presentation is an important part of creating an effective treatment plan.

Depending on the individual, contributing factors may include:

Not every factor will apply to every person, which is why an individualised assessment is essential.

My Approach to Reflux

Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual following a comprehensive consultation.

Depending on your presentation, your personalised plan may include:

  • Dietary modifications

  • Meal timing and eating habits

  • Lifestyle strategies

  • Practitioner-prescribed herbal medicine

  • Nutritional supplementation

  • Support for gut motility where appropriate

  • Functional testing when clinically indicated

  • Stress and nervous system support

The goal is not simply to reduce symptoms, but to support healthy digestive function and improve long-term gut health.

If symptoms such as bloating, altered bowel habits or post-meal discomfort are also present, further investigation into conditions such as SIBO or IBS may be appropriate.

Foods That Can Trigger Reflux

Trigger foods vary from person to person, but commonly reported triggers include:

  • Large meals

  • Fatty or fried foods

  • Alcohol

  • Chocolate

  • Coffee

  • Peppermint

  • Spicy foods

  • Carbonated drinks

  • Eating close to bedtime

Rather than permanently eliminating foods, the aim is to identify patterns and create a sustainable approach that supports both symptom management and nutritional adequacy.

Can Stress Make Reflux Worse?

Yes. The digestive system and nervous system are closely connected.

Many people notice their reflux worsens during periods of increased stress, anxiety or poor sleep. Stress can influence digestive function, gut motility and symptom perception, making symptoms feel more frequent or severe.

Supporting nervous system health may therefore form part of a comprehensive treatment plan where clinically appropriate.

When Should Reflux Be Investigated?

Persistent reflux should not be ignored.

You should seek prompt medical assessment if you experience:

  • Difficulty or pain when swallowing

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Vomiting blood

  • Black or tarry stools

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Chest pain

  • New or worsening symptoms after the age of 55

Your GP may recommend further investigations, such as an endoscopy or other testing, to rule out more serious conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is reflux always caused by too much stomach acid?

No. While stomach acid can contribute to symptoms, reflux can also be influenced by gut motility, dysfunction of the lower oesophageal sphincter, gastric emptying, abdominal pressure and other digestive factors.

Is acid reflux the same as GERD or GORD?

GERD (or GORD in Australia) stands for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and refers to reflux that occurs frequently or leads to complications. Many people use the terms interchangeably.

Can bloating make reflux worse?

For some people, yes. Increased abdominal pressure associated with bloating may contribute to reflux symptoms, particularly after meals.

Should I avoid trigger foods forever?

Not necessarily. Temporary dietary modifications can be helpful while symptoms are active, but unnecessary long-term restriction is generally not the goal. Where possible, treatment aims to improve tolerance and support a varied, balanced diet.

Do I need testing?

Not everyone requires testing. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, further investigations or referral back to your GP may be recommended where appropriate.

Struggling With Ongoing Reflux?

If you're experiencing persistent reflux, heartburn or upper digestive symptoms, an initial consultation provides the opportunity to explore your symptoms in detail and develop a personalised treatment plan.

Appointments are available in person from Kunara Organic Marketplace on the Sunshine Coast and via telehealth Australia-wide.

Book Your Initial Consultation