PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) are the standard treatment for GERD and acid reflux. They work — but they work by suppressing acid production, which has downstream consequences.
The PPI Problem
Long-term PPI use is associated with:
- Osteoporosis (reduced calcium absorption)
- B12 deficiency
- Increased Clostridium difficile infections
- Kidney disease risk
- Rebound acid hypersecretion when stopping
The Alternative Approach: Speed Up, Don't Suppress
What if the problem isn't too much acid, but food staying too long in the stomach?
Ginger is a clinically proven prokinetic — it speeds up gastric emptying by 20-50%. Less food in the stomach = less food to reflux.
| Approach | Mechanism | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| PPI | Acid suppression | Osteoporosis, B12, kidneys |
| H2 blocker | Acid reduction | Headaches, rebound |
| Ginger | Faster gastric emptying | None documented |
The Combination Approach
For many people, ginger + lifestyle changes (not eating before bed, smaller meals, head elevation) can manage mild-to-moderate GERD without PPIs.
For severe GERD: ginger as complement to medication, potentially allowing lower PPI doses (with doctor supervision).
What I Use
INTI — a zero-sugar ginger + turmeric + black pepper shot. The curcumin adds gastroprotective benefits and the piperine multiplies absorption by 20×.
One shot 15 minutes before the heaviest meal. My reflux episodes dropped by ~70% within 2 weeks. Your mileage may vary — but the mechanism is well-established.
Critical note: many ginger products contain 30+ grams of sugar per serving. Sugar slows gastric emptying — literally the opposite of what you want for GERD.
Not medical advice. Consult your gastroenterologist before changing PPI medication.
