Reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects up to 1 in 5 Australians. It can feel like a burning sensation in the chest, constant burping, bloating, or even a sore throat. But with so much online advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start.

To help, we’ve answered the Top 10 most Googled questions about reflux—plus how the Reflux Clinic at Lygon Everyday Chemist Brunswick East can support your journey to relief.

1. What causes acid reflux?

Reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. This is usually due to a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), the valve between your stomach and oesophagus.

Common triggers include:

• Fatty, fried, or spicy foods

• Alcohol and caffeine

• Eating too quickly or large meals

• Food intolerances (more on that below)

• Smoking

• Stress

2. What are the symptoms of reflux?

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)

• Regurgitation of food or acid

• Bloating, burping, or hiccups

• Sore throat, hoarseness, or chronic cough

• Nausea or difficulty swallowing

If symptoms persist more than twice a week, it’s worth visiting our Reflux Clinic in Brunswick East for a personalised review.

3. Can food intolerances cause reflux?

Yes. Food intolerances—like dairy, gluten, or certain additives—can cause bloating, gas, and abdominal pressure, which worsens reflux. They can also irritate the digestive lining, making reflux symptoms feel worse.

4. What foods should I avoid with reflux?

• Spicy food (chilli, pepper)

• Caffeine (coffee, energy drinks)

• Citrus fruits and juices

• Chocolate

• Fried or fatty foods

• Tomato sauces

• Carbonated drinks

These foods either irritate the stomach or relax the LES, allowing acid to rise.

5. What foods are safe or helpful for reflux?

Choose low-acid, anti-inflammatory, and soothing options like:

• Oats

• Bananas and melons

• Green vegetables

• Ginger

• Slippery elm

• Lean proteins

• Whole grains

We stock reflux-friendly supplements and natural options at our chemist too.

6. How is reflux different from heartburn?

Heartburn is a symptom of reflux. It refers to the burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid rising into the oesophagus.

7. Is there a natural way to treat reflux?

Yes, and it works well when paired with diet and lifestyle changes:

• Ginger tea – Anti-inflammatory and calming

• Slippery elm – Coats and soothes the oesophagus

• Probiotics – Improve gut health and reduce bloating

• Apple cider vinegar (caution needed) – May help some people rebalance stomach pH

• Aloe vera juice – Soothes the gut lining

We carry a curated range of trusted, natural reflux relief products at Lygon Everyday Chemist.

8. Can stress and anxiety cause reflux?

Absolutely. Stress can trigger stomach acid production and affect digestion. It also impacts gut-brain function, worsening symptoms of reflux and food intolerance. We help you explore both physical and emotional triggers at our Reflux Clinic.

9. Is reflux dangerous?

Occasional reflux is common. But chronic reflux can lead to:

• Oesophagitis (inflammation)

• Barrett’s oesophagus

• Dental erosion

• Sleep disruption

• Poor quality of life

That’s why early intervention and guidance at our Reflux Clinic is so important.

10. How can the Reflux Clinic at Lygon Everyday Chemist help?

The Reflux Clinic offers our Brunswick east community a personalised, science-backed approach to uncovering the root causes of reflux—especially when conventional treatments fall short.

Located at 473–475 Lygon Street, Brunswick East VIC 3057, the clinic provides online consultations with renowned clinical nutritionist Doug Mizzi, who has helped over 65,000 patients.

The goal of each consultation:

• Identify your reflux triggers (including food intolerances)
• Improve your diet and meal habits
• Find safe medications or natural products
• Understand when to use antacids, PPIs, or alternatives
• Track your symptoms and provide ongoing care
• Refer for further testing if needed (e.g. food intolerance, H. pylori)

Whether it’s caused by food, stress, or medication, we’ll tailor a plan that works for you.

Ready for Relief?

Don’t keep guessing. Book a consult at the Reflux Clinic at Lygon Everyday Chemist, Brunswick East. We’re here to help you find safe, sustainable relief—naturally and locally.

Visit in-store or CLICK HERE to book online today.