A weak esophageal sphincter can make you feel like your living your life up-side down! The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is a ring-like muscle, that acts as a one-way valve between the stomach and esophagus. Its job, is to stay tightly closed, to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up.
★ What Causes the Esophageal Valve to Weaken ?
SIBO-related gases, particularly methane and hydrogen, can increase intra-abdominal pressure, forcing the lower esophageal sphincter open. When this happens, stomach acid leaks into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, reflux, and irritation.
★ What Makes A Weak Esophageal Valve Worse ?
There is a reason why holidays tend to make a Weak Esophageal Valve even worse. And, the key culprit is overindulgence:-
1. Carbonated drinks
These add more gas to an already bloated gut, further pushing against, the LES lower esophageal sphincter.
2. Over-Eating
A full stomach increases pressure, making it harder for the lower esophageal sphincter, to stay closed.
3. Poor bile flow
Bile helps digest fats efficiently. When bile is sluggish, digestion slows, leading to more fermentation and, gas buildup
★ How Can You Strengthen the Esophageal Valve?
To prevent Esophageal Valve weakness and stop acid reflux at its root, focus seriously on these three remedies:-
1. Reducing Bloating & Gas
- Garlic, Oregano Oil, and Clove – These act as natural antimicrobials to help eliminate the bacteria and fungi causing excessive gas.
2. Stimulating Bile & Digestion
- Betaine Hydrochloric Acid + Digestive Enzymes – Both enhance stomach acid and enzyme production, ensuring food is broken down quickly, reducing fermentation.
- Bile salts or bitters – These encourage better bile flow, preventing sluggish digestion and excess gas buildup thus releasing the pressure on a Weak Esophageal Valve.
3. Preventing Air Swallowing
- Chew food slowly and thoroughly – This reduces swallowed air, which can contribute to bloating and, increased lower esophageal sphincter pressure.
- Avoid drinking large amounts of liquid during meals – Too much liquid dilutes stomach acid and, contributes to stomach distension!
You’ll be surprised how, taking your time, when chewing your food, before swallowing… Along with these simple remedies can give you much needed relief, from a Weak Esophageal Valve.