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This brings us to a common misconception I often see in comments: “Doctor, if I have reflux, should I suppress stomach acid?” The answer is no. Acid is vital. It kills bacteria, aids in protein digestion, and is essential for vitamin B12 absorption. The problem isn’t that acid is inherently bad; the problem is that it flows back up to the wrong place. It reaches your esophagus and throat. And why does this happen? Because the one-way valve is malfunctioning. While medications like omeprazole reduce this acid attack and can treat esophagitis, they don’t mechanically strengthen this valve. They don’t close the door. That’s why today we’re focusing on strengthening this valve from a mechanical perspective.
2. The plumber’s number one mistake: overfilling and the 80% rule
Let’s start with an approach based on fluid dynamics, or more simply, plumbing. Why does this valve open when it shouldn’t? Besides a hiatal hernia, a very common reason is bloating and distension of the stomach, with internal pressure doing the rest. The stomach is an elastic muscle, but it has its limits. If you eat until you’re full, gastric distension increases internal pressure. This pressure can overcome the valve’s resistance. It’s a simple matter of physics: pressure always seeks a way out.
