GERD
GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and regurgitation.
Overview
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD) occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and regurgitation. Chronic reflux can lead to oesophagitis, narrowing, or Barrett’s oesophagus — a precancerous condition. Around 11% of Australians experience GERD symptoms weekly (gut.bmj.com).
Common Misunderstandings
GERD is often seen as purely mechanical — “too much acid” — but it can be influenced by diet, lifestyle, and microbiome factors. Long-term acid suppression can reduce symptoms but may also impact gut bacterial balance. Many patients grow frustrated with medication dependence or symptom rebound when stopping.
How is GERD Linked to Your Microbiome?
- Chronic acid suppression (e.g. proton pump inhibitors) can alter the gut microbiome, increasing certain bacteria linked to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (nature.com).
- Alterations in the oesophageal microbiome have been found in GERD and Barrett’s oesophagus, with shifts towards bacteria associated with inflammation (gut.bmj.com).
- Dysbiosis may contribute to oesophageal inflammation and impaired mucosal defences.
- Supporting a healthy gut and oral microbiome can help manage GERD
Symptoms
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
Regurgitation of food or acid
Difficulty swallowing
Chronic cough or hoarseness
Sensation of a lump in the throat
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for GERD includes:
Gut Microbiome Test
Profile the gut to identify dysbiosis that may be affecting symptoms or treatment using the Gut Microbiome Test.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based or pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Nutrition strategies to support recovery and enhance your overall health such as a tailored low-FODMAP diet or fibre consumptions strategies.
Suspect you might have GERD?
