Understanding Heartburn and Indigestion: Causes and Treatment Options

arcohealthcareclinic
Published: April 4, 2025

Heartburn and indigestion are common digestive concerns that can cause discomfort, bloating, and burning sensations in the chest and stomach. While occasional episodes may not be a cause for concern, chronic heartburn and indigestion can indicate underlying imbalances that need to be addressed. At Arco Healthcare Clinic, we take a natural approach to digestive health, focusing on identifying root causes and restoring balance to the digestive system.

Common Causes of Heartburn and Indigestion

  1. Poor Dietary Choices – Consuming processed foods, excessive caffeine, spicy or acidic foods, and unhealthy fats can contribute to acid reflux and indigestion.
  2. Low Stomach Acid (Hypochlorhydria) – Contrary to popular belief, many cases of heartburn stem from too little stomach acid rather than too much, leading to improper digestion and reflux.
  3. Food Sensitivities and Allergies – Certain foods, such as gluten, dairy, and soy, can trigger inflammation and digestive distress in sensitive individuals.
  4. Stress and Anxiety – Chronic stress can impact digestion by reducing stomach acid production and increasing tension in the gut.
  5. Poor Gut Microbiome Balance – An imbalance of gut bacteria can contribute to bloating, gas, and improper digestion, exacerbating indigestion and reflux.
  6. Overeating and Late-Night Eating – Eating large meals or eating too close to bedtime can increase pressure on the stomach, leading to reflux and discomfort.
  7. Hiatal Hernia – A condition where the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, allowing acid to move into the esophagus more easily.

Holistic Treatment Approaches

At our clinic, we focus on natural solutions to restore digestive harmony and reduce heartburn and indigestion.

1. Dietary Adjustments and Whole Foods Nutrition

Eating whole, unprocessed foods, incorporating fiber-rich vegetables, and avoiding trigger foods can support digestive health and reduce reflux symptoms.

2. Herbal and Natural Remedies

Herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow root, ginger, and licorice root can soothe the digestive tract and support healing.

3. Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics

Supplementing with digestive enzymes and probiotics can improve gut health, enhance digestion, and prevent bloating and acid reflux.

4. Stress Management and Mindful Eating

Practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and mindful eating can improve digestion and reduce stress-induced heartburn.

5. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Acupuncture can help alleviate heartburn and indigestion by promoting better digestion, reducing inflammation, and balancing stomach acid levels. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it can enhance blood flow to the digestive organs, regulate the nervous system, and reduce stress—one of the common triggers of acid reflux. Additionally, acupuncture may improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. Many people find relief from symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and acid reflux through regular acupuncture treatments.

6. Lifestyle Modifications

Simple changes, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help prevent acid reflux and indigestion.

7. Hydration and Detoxification

Drinking enough water and incorporating detoxifying foods like leafy greens and herbal teas can support liver function and improve digestion.

Restore Your Digestive Health Naturally

Heartburn and indigestion don’t have to be a daily struggle. By addressing the root causes with holistic treatments, you can enjoy lasting relief and optimal digestive wellness. If you’re experiencing chronic digestive discomfort, visit our clinic for a personalised consultation and treatment plan.

Your journey to better digestion starts here! For further information regarding treatment contact our experienced reception team or alternatively book here for the next available appointment. To claim back treatment cost from your healthcare policies provider, we advised checking the governing body of our registered acupuncturist is accepted. Practitioners registration can be found here.

 

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