Natural Treatment for Heartburn, Acid Reflux & GERD in Toronto

How Our Toronto Naturopath Treats Acid Reflux and GERD

Our Toronto naturopath provides effective, individualized treatment plans for heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD. Rather than masking symptoms with long-term medications, we focus on resolving the root cause through natural, evidence-based therapies.

Dr. Tara Andresen ND uses a naturopathic approach that supports digestive repair, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent symptom recurrence—without the side effects of daily acid blockers.

Learn more about our comprehensive digestive health services and how we address the root causes of common digestive symptoms.

Naturopathic Tools for Long-Term Relief

Diet and Lifestyle Assessment

We work with you to identify personal food triggers, meal timing habits, and stress patterns that may contribute to reflux.

Food Sensitivity and Digestive Testing

We may recommend testing to assess low stomach acid, SIBO, or food sensitivities that contribute to reflux symptoms.

Herbal and Nutritional Support

Natural therapies such as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), slippery elm, and targeted supplements help reduce inflammation and promote esophageal healing.

What Causes Acid Reflux and GERD?

Weak or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Food triggers (spicy foods, caffeine, fatty meals)
Hiatal hernia
Low stomach acid or bacterial overgrowth
Stress and eating habits

Common Symptoms of GERD

Burning sensation in the chest (especially after eating or at night)
Chest pain or discomfort
Difficulty swallowing
Sour taste or food regurgitation
Persistent cough, burping, or throat clearing
Sensation of a lump in the throat
Laryngitis or asthma flare-ups

Many patients with GERD also experience overlapping symptoms with IBS, which we assess as part of a full digestive health evaluation.

Why Not Just Take Antacids or PPIs?

While conventional treatments focus on acid suppression, long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and antacids may increase the risk of:

Nutrient deficiencies (B12, magnesium, calcium)
Bone fractures and kidney disease
Gut microbiome imbalances
Food sensitivities and chronic digestive symptoms

How Naturopathic Care Treats Heartburn

In Naturopathic medicine, we strive to treat the root cause of heartburn or GERD without also causing nutrient absorption issues and other drug reactions. Rather than relying on daily antacids indefinitely, a Naturopath will look to address the root cause and fix the problem. We use diagnostic testing to better understand the underlying causes of chronic reflux and to guide personalized treatment. Our goal is not just short-term relief - we aim to reduce recurrence and help patients feel confident eating again.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Free 15-Minute Consultation
Two-part appointment: 75-minute intake + 45-minute follow-up
Personalized treatment plan using natural therapies to reduce symptoms, heal tissue, and prevent recurrence

Find Relief Naturally—Book Your Free Consultation

We specialize in natural digestive repair and long-term reflux relief. If you’re ready to address the root cause of your acid reflux or GERD symptoms, we’re here to help.

Book your free 15-minute consultation with NDcare Naturopathic Clinics in Toronto and take the first step toward lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heartburn, Acid Reflux & GERD

Can naturopaths treat acid reflux and GERD effectively?

Yes. Naturopathic care addresses the root causes of reflux — such as low stomach acid, food triggers, or gut imbalances — instead of just suppressing symptoms. Many patients find lasting relief through natural therapies.

Is my reflux caused by too much stomach acid or not enough?

Despite common belief, many cases of reflux are linked to low stomach acid, not excess. This leads to poor digestion and food sitting in the stomach longer — increasing pressure and reflux. Testing can help determine the real cause.

Do you offer testing for acid reflux?

Yes. We may use SIBO breath tests, food sensitivity panels, and functional assessments of stomach acid to uncover hidden contributors to reflux. This helps us personalize your treatment plan.

What are the risks of taking PPIs or antacids long term?

Long-term use of PPIs or antacids may lead to nutrient deficiencies (like B12 and magnesium), gut microbiome disruption, and increased risk of bone loss or kidney issues. Naturopathic treatment works to correct the underlying issue without these side effects.

What natural remedies are used for heartburn?

We often use anti-inflammatory herbs like deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), slippery elm, and marshmallow root. Your plan may also include dietary changes, stress support, and targeted nutrients to heal and protect the esophagus.

How is your approach different from conventional reflux treatment?

Instead of daily medication to suppress acid, we aim to heal the gut lining, improve digestion, and resolve the root cause — whether it’s poor stomach acid production, bacterial overgrowth, or hormone-related issues.

How do I get started?

You can book a free 15-minute consultation to learn if naturopathic care is right for your reflux. In-person and virtual appointments are available at both our Beaches and Downtown Toronto clinics.

Serving across Etobicoke, Spadina Avenue, Downtown Toronto, The Beaches, the Annex, Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Oakville, Burlington, Scarborough, East York, Rosedale, Yorkville, Riverdale, Forest Hill, Leslieville, Liberty Village, Wallace Emerson, Bloor West Village, Parkdale, Kensington Market, Koreatown, Birch Cliff, Summerhill, Little Italy, Roncesvalles, Distillery District, Eglington East, Danforth Village, Upper Beaches, Cliffcrest, Oakridge, Birchcliffe-Cliffside, Birchmount Park, East Chinatown, Danforth East York, East Danforth and the surrounding areas.