GERD is related to the phenomenon where the stomach pushes liquid, acids and juices "the wrong way" into the esophagus. Often triggered after consuming food, heartburn, the burning feeling in the mid-chest is one of the most frequent signs of the more complex syndrome, which is GERD (Gastro esophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux.

The stomach matter that gets back into the esophagus then attacks the esophageal lining, causing corrosion and burning of the tissue because of the acid as well as bile, pepsin and other digestive enzymes.

If no mechanism prevents the acid substances from getting back into the esophagus, then over time serious injury can result to the esophagus and generate further complications. The esophagus is a tube composed of muscle which passes food from the mouth to the stomach by a series of muscular movements. At the bottom of the esophagus is the LES, the lower esophageal sphincter, which should normally operate as a one-way valve, opening by reflex to let food into the stomach, then closing to prevent stomach content from moving back into the esophageal cavity. But upon weakening of the LES, or lack of synchronization (remaining open when it should be shut), acidic stomach content can flow back into the esophagus.

Acid reflux significance is determined by three factors:

1. The muscular effectiveness of the LES.

2. The stomach liquid type and quantity.

3. The natural capability of esophagus muscles to evacuate such content from the bottom of the esophagus.

Among sufferers of heartburn, observations have been made that the liquid stomach content comes into contact with the esophageal lining and remains there for a longer period than happens for non-victims. In addition, it is remarkable that with most individuals who are victims of acid reflux, the degree of acidity of stomach contents is greater than for non-victims of acid reflux.

Gravity helps the body when awake and upright to keep the stomach liquids in the stomach. Saliva is also used by the body as a means of protecting the esophagus. The saliva contains water, enzymes, mucus and electrolytes as neutralizing agents to the corrosive effects that acid reflux can produce in the esophagus.

Nonetheless, at night when saliva production drops off, gravity no longer helps and swallowing decreases because the body is horizontal, the reflux liquids remain in the esophageal cavity longer and increase corrosion and damage to the esophageal lining.

GERD is a complicated phenomenon resulting from more than one factor. This explains why doctors still find this chronic ailment so hard to treat using over the counter or prescribed medication. Fortunately, an optional treatment exists - the holistic remedy that treats the root cause and restores the natural inner gastric and esophageal environmental balance.