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What's the Root Cause? by Dr Vikki PetersenAuthor: Root Cause Medical Clinic
"What's the Root Cause?" is brought to you by Root Cause Medical Clinic, featuring Dr. Vikki Petersenrenowned doctor, functional medicine expert, author of "Hiatal Hernia Syndrome" and host of a highly popular YouTube channel. Dr. Vikki Petersen and her team of clinicians provide cutting-edge solutions in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, nutrition, food, hormones, genetics, lifestyle, and more.You dont have to accept feeling unwell or struggling with chronic health issues. Your body has the power to heal, and with the right approach, reversing many health conditions is possible. We're here to help you do just that.Have questions about your health? Contact us today at 727-335-0400 or visit RootCauseMedicalClinics.com. Language: en-us Genres: Alternative Health, Health & Fitness, Nutrition Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Why Reflux Keeps Coming Back
Monday, 23 February, 2026
Reflux that keeps coming back is usually not just an acid problem — it’s a pressure and mechanics problem.In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why getting "relief" from an antacid is not addressing the core of the problem. In fact, it's perpetuating it.Acid blockers (PPIs and H2 blockers) reduce stomach acid and can decrease the burning sensation. That can be appropriate short-term, especially with esophagitis. But these medications do not address the root cause of reflux - it isn't too much acid. It's actually a pressure problem. When pressure within your abdomen increases, stomach emptying slows, or a hiatal hernia develops, stomach contents can move upward regardless of acid level. Lowering acid may reduce symptoms, but it does not correct the mechanical dysfunction being caused by the pressure.Why stomach acid matters. Why do you need acid in your stomach?• Protein digestion begins in the stomach• It's a detergent/disinfectant that kills bad organisms.• Absorption of minerals only occurs due to the presence of acid: e.g. calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc• Release and absorption of vitamin B12 and folatePotential risks associated with long-term acid suppressionLong-term PPI use has been associated in the literature with:• Increased risk of nutrient deficiencies (B12, magnesium, iron)• Higher rates of C. difficile infection - a bacterial infection that can be life-threatening• Altered gut microbiome - more bad bacteria present in the gut than good bacteria leading to inflammation, mood disorders, and more.• Increased fracture risk - osteoporosis due to lack of calcium absorption• Kidney injury (acute and chronic)• Increased risk of respiratory infections, e.g. pneumoniaThese associations do not mean every patient will experience harm, but they highlight that acid suppression can have negative health impacts across many organs and systems.Addressing the root contributorsLong-term improvement often requires evaluating:• Intra-abdominal pressure (belly fat, chronic straining due to constipation)• Diaphragm function and breathing mechanics• Hiatal hernia alignment• Delayed stomach emptying• Dysbiosis or SIBO• Food triggers and inflammatory loadThe goal should not simply be eliminating the burn.The goal is restoring function and integrity.References1. Lam JR, et al. Proton pump inhibitor and histamine-2 receptor antagonist use and vitamin B12 deficiency. JAMA. 20132.Hess MW, et al. Systematic review: hypomagnesaemia induced by PPIs. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2012. 3. Yang YX, et al. Long-term PPI therapy and risk of hip fracture.JAMA. 2006. 4. Xie Y, et al. Long-term kidney outcomes among PPI users without intervening acute kidney injury. J Am Soc Nephrol. 20175. Janarthanan S, et al. Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea and PPI therapy: meta-analysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 20126. Kahrilas PJ, et al. Approaches to the diagnosis and grading of hiatal hernia. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2008.#acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video.The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical
