I have acid reflux.
It didn’t arrive loudly or dramatically. It was subtle, so subtle that I barely noticed it at first. My body tried to whisper before it ever needed to shout. Digestion felt off. My gallbladder and liver needed some love. Emotions like anger, overwhelm, and resentment settled into my body with nowhere to go.
At the time, I didn’t connect the dots.
I was caring for a sick dog, running my pet-sitting business around the clock, navigating a romantic breakup, and grieving the loss of my sister. There was no space to stop and listen. I didn’t realize what my body was carrying, or how much it was holding on to.
Eventually, my body stepped in and said, enough.
When the Body Takes Over
I became sluggish and bloated and brushed it off. I tried changing my diet, no sugar, no carbs, fewer calories. Nothing worked. I lost two pounds and felt worse.
Sitting in my naturopath’s office, we decided to run bloodwork. Before the results even came back, my gallbladder told the story. I called her with my symptoms and was back in her office quickly. Based on my labs and symptoms, she suspected gallbladder involvement. An ultrasound confirmed a few small stones.
With milk thistle, dietary changes, and proper support, I lost 26 pounds in six weeks. But the weight loss wasn’t the real story. My body had been holding grief, trauma, and exhaustion for so long that my liver and gallbladder simply couldn’t do their jobs.
Healing followed, but not all the changes stuck.
The Spiral Back
Life shifted again. Stress crept back in. Anxiety returned. I moved back to Michigan. And yes, I tried to buy a house during COVID. Not exactly a gentle transition for the nervous system.
About a year ago, I noticed the familiar signs of acid reflux returning. This time, it wasn’t subtle. And this time, I paid attention.
I had no idea how much acid reflux affects the body over time.
Acid Reflux Is the Tip of the Iceberg
Yes, there’s the acidic stomach and the burning in the esophagus. But that’s only the beginning.
Acid reflux can contribute to:
- Inflammation throughout the body
- Sinus irritation and burning eyes
- Chronic dry cough and throat clearing
- Lung irritation and breathing changes
- Bad breath
- Poor nutrient absorption
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Heart palpitations
- Post-nasal drip
- Difficulty swallowing
- Waking between 1–3 a.m.
That last one? That was me.
I assumed it was dry air, sinus issues, menopause — and yes, it can be those things. But this was a place to start.
Doctors often treat the symptoms in front of them, sinuses, heart, lungs, without always connecting digestion as the root. That doesn’t mean they’re wrong. It means the body is layered.
My ear, nose, and throat specialist, an otolaryngologist, explained how closely reflux, digestion, and upper respiratory symptoms are connected. It was validating and grounding.
Healing Starts in the Gut
This experience reminded me that healing often starts with digestion — with a supported liver and gallbladder, a regulated nervous system, and a safe way to release stress.
That said, medical care matters. Please seek professional guidance before making changes. If reflux symptoms are persistent, finding an ENT who understands digestion and reflux can be incredibly helpful. I was fortunate to find one.
Gentle, Holistic Ways to Support Acid Reflux
(Alongside medical care)
- Eat slowly and without distraction
- Avoid lying down for at least 2–3 hours after eating
- Support the liver and gallbladder (under guidance)
- Reduce nervous system overload because rest matters
- Breathe deeply before meals
- Notice emotional digestion. W what are you holding?
- Create consistency with meals and sleep
- Choose warm, nourishing foods when possible
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about listening sooner and responding with care.
If you’re dealing with acid reflux, you’re not broken. Your body is communicating. And there is a way forward.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before beginning any new herbal regimen.
