Does High Stomach Acid Cause Reflux?
- Zena Barrick
- May 29
- 2 min read

Understanding the Real Cause Behind Acid Reflux
There’s plenty of debate around what really causes acid reflux—so, does high stomach acid cause reflux, or is it actually due to low levels? A quick online search brings up all kinds of home tests, including the well-known bicarbonate test. This involves drinking a solution of baking soda and waiting to see if you burp. The theory is that if you burp quickly, you must have enough stomach acid; if not, your levels are too low. However, this method lacks scientific backing, as sodium bicarbonate can also release trapped gas unrelated to acid levels—so it’s not a reliable way to measure stomach acid.
Reflux isn’t just about how much acid is present
In truth, reflux isn’t just about how much acid is present—it’s more about when and how that acid is produced. When we’re constantly stressed and on the go, our digestive system doesn’t get the cues it needs to function properly. Modern life and the convenience of ready-made food mean we often skip the natural build-up to eating, which plays a crucial role in stimulating acid production. As a result, food may sit in the stomach longer, increasing the risk of reflux.
The effect of insufficient stomach acid
Without sufficient stomach acid, digestion slows down dramatically. Instead of efficiently breaking down food, the digestive system ends up acting more like a compost bin—food has to ferment or rot before nutrients can be absorbed. This can cause symptoms like bloating, excessive gas, discomfort, and in some cases, even nausea or vomiting.
The importance of prepping food
Prepping food isn’t just about nourishment—it’s about priming the digestive process. Digestion actually starts in the brain through what's called the cephalic phase. The act of preparing and smelling food sends early signals to the stomach to get ready, and it takes about 20 minutes for this signal to fully activate acid production. If you don’t have time to cook, simply taking a few mindful moments to think about your meal—how it smells, tastes, and makes you feel—can help trigger this response and improve digestion, reducing IBS-like symptoms.
So, does high stomach acid cause reflux?
Not necessarily. It’s often more about timing, stress, and how well your body is prepared to digest. There are many other factors that influence stomach acid levels, which we’ll explore in a future post. But for now, if you’re dealing with symptoms like reflux, bloating, or discomfort, try giving your digestive system a head start—taking time to mentally and physically prepare for your meals can make a noticeable difference.