Heartburn and reflux

Heartburn is believed to be caused by too much acid in the stomach. However, heartburn can also be caused by too little – when there is not enough acid in the stomach the foods eaten are not broken down properly and can start to ferment, creating gases that, together with some stomach acid, can come back through the sphincter to the oesophagus and cause burn or pain. If there is too little stomach acid, fermented foods can help to make the stomach more acidic; if there is too much, they will help protect the stomach lining.