Still struggling with reflux even though you take PPIs?
What people with IBS need to know about acid-suppressing medications
Many people with IBS also experience upper digestive symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. And in the short term, PPIs can be very helpful. But what happens when the treatment continues year after year?
A new Swedish study shows that long-term PPI use may affect kidney and heart health over time. It’s an important reminder that we need to look at the whole gut when treating reflux – especially in IBS.
Stomach acid – more important than we think
Stomach acid helps to:
- Protect us from bacteria in food
- Break down food so the body can absorb nutrients
When acid is too low for too long, bacteria can move into the small intestine where they don’t belong. That can cause very common IBS symptoms:
- Gas and bloating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- A feeling that food “just sits” in the stomach
This can be a sign of SIBO – bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
What we see at Belly Balance
Many people we meet:
- Have taken PPIs for years
- Still have heartburn
- Feel worse further down in the gut
When they get help to safely step down the acid suppression and strengthen digestive function, many feel much better. Less reflux. Fewer IBS symptoms. More control.
How to know if this might be affecting you
Ask yourself:
- Have you taken PPIs for a long time?
- Do you still have symptoms?
- Are you more bloated or gassy than before?
- Do you have both reflux and IBS?
If yes – it may be worth re-thinking your treatment approach.
What can you do?
✔ Do not stop your medication on your own — talk to your doctor
✔ Ask for a gradual step-down plan
✔ Work with a dietitian to support digestion and gut flora
✔ Look at meal habits, stress, sleep and triggers
Sometimes the issue is not too much acid — but that the digestive system isn’t working as it should.
We help you figure that out.
You are not alone – and there are solutions.
Read more about the new study:
Karolinska Institutet: How heartburn medication may affect long-term health
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