GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is one of the most common diseases that plague adults today. GERD, more commonly known as acid reflux, happens when contents of the stomach come back into the esophagus. This causes conditions like heartburn, chronic cough, swallowing issues and asthma symptoms. If GERD continues for too long it will damage the esophagus and can potentially cause more serious conditions like cancer.

So what is the mechanism at play that is supposed to keep the contents of the stomach from coming back up into the esophagus? The sphincter (muscular valve that separates the lower end of the esophagus and the stomach) is the mechanism that is supposed to keep contents of the stomach in place. The prevailing theory is that GERD is caused by the sphincter being dysfunctional and opening when it shouldn’t. It’s been shown in Gastroenterology that increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is the causative mechanism for the sphincter to be dysfunctional. There have been several studies indicating an association between obesity and GERD. But, there are more reasons than obesity for IAP that causes GERD.

When carbohydrates are consumed in excess, some of the carbs will escape absorption and become available for intestinal microbes to ferment. This fermentation process produces gas which increases intra-abdominal pressure. The fermentation of carbohydrates, that haven’t been digested properly in the gut, is a major cause of IAP. Most make the assumption that GERD is caused by too much stomach acid being produced but this is not the case at all. In fact, if there was more stomach acid (HCL) produced, it would help the digestion and absorption of the excess carbohydrates. This would cut down on the gas being produced causing GERD.

We always see massive improvement with our dieters dealing with GERD when starting our Protein Pantry system. When we massively reduce carbohydrate consumption, this reduces the fermentation of carbs by intestinal microbes. Reducing carbohydrates also increases the production of stomach acid (HCL) which we know is crucial for proper digestion.  We also give our dieters sea salt and stress the importance of consuming sea salt at every meal. Along with the sea salt, we have our dieters consume our whole food vitamin supplement, our caprylic acid supplement and certain vegetables, all of which increases HCL production. Our caprylic acid supplement is antifungal and helps control the overgrowth of bacteria that harms digestion. It also happens to be an anti-inflammatory for the digestive tract.

Why do we see such positive results with our dieter’s digestive issues? Because, the Protein Pantry system focuses on the source causing GERD. We do things which allows for the digestive tract to come back into balance and work properly. This is all done through proper nutrition not pharmaceuticals and surgery.

Sources:  Heartburn Cured; Dr. Norm Robillard, Microbiologist

The Candida Diet; Lisa Richards & Dr. Eric Wood