Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast What's the Root Cause? by Dr Vikki Petersen
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Silent Reflux: 7 Signs You Have It (Even Without Heartburn)
03 nov. 2026
00:14:19
Constantly clearing your throat? Feel like there's a lump stuck in your throat? Dealing with hoarseness, a chronic cough, or "postnasal drip" that allergy medications don't fix?
You could have silent reflux (LPR), even if you never experience heartburn.
Ready to talk to our team? Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
Silent reflux, also called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), happens when stomach contents travel up into your throat and voice box. Unlike typical acid reflux, silent reflux may cause throat symptoms without the burning sensation of heartburn.
In this video, Dr. Vikki Petersen walks through 7 signs of silent reflux, why your throat is more sensitive than your esophagus, why acid reflux medications don't always help, and how a hiatal hernia may contribute to your symptoms.
⚠️ Persistent throat symptoms can have several causes. Seek prompt medical evaluation for difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck, a neck lump, coughing blood, trouble breathing, or unexplained weight loss. Hoarseness lasting more than 4 weeks should be evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
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💬 Tell us in the comments: do you experience constant throat clearing, a lump in your throat, or a chronic cough without heartburn?
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🎥 WATCH NEXT ➡️ Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g ➡️ Told You Don't Have a Hiatal Hernia? You Still Might https://youtu.be/22KJRFB50A8 ➡️ AFib After Eating? https://youtu.be/iE7oOh3vku4
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🩺 WORK WITH OUR TEAM ➡️ Telemedicine nationwide. We find what everyone else missed. ➡️ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ ➡️ Call: 727-335-0400
👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI PETERSEN Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and root cause digestive care. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic, offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
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Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP | Root Cause Medical Clinic This video is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a diagnosis, treatment, or replacement for care from your own doctor.
What a Hiatal Hernia Does to Your Body Over Time
09 oct. 2026
00:16:19
Most hiatal hernias are quiet and never cause a serious problem - but when one causes ongoing reflux that's left unaddressed for years, it can set off a slow chain: inflammation, scarring, tissue changes, even hidden blood loss. And there's a second cost most people never consider - what years of acid-suppressing medication can do.
In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through both honestly, so you can make an informed decision instead of just coping.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400
This is not a scare video. Most people never reach the serious stages. The point is to understand the path so you can head it off - and to know which medication "risks" are real and which are overblown headlines.
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⏱️ What we cover
→ Why "just live with it" isn't really a do-nothing option → Inflammation: the hernia is the #1 risk factor for esophageal damage → Scarring and narrowing — when food starts to stick → Barrett's esophagus — the uncommon far end (and why most people never reach it) → Cameron lesions — hidden slow bleeding and unexplained anemia → The other cost: what years of acid-suppressing pills actually do → Which PPI "risks" are real (nutrients, dependency) and which are overblown (the dementia/kidney headlines)
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💬 Tell me in the comments — how long have you been managing this, and how long on acid-reducing medication?
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⚠️ Important
→ Do NOT stop any medication because of this video — rebound can make you worse; taper only with professional help. → Trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, unexplained anemia, or sudden severe chest/abdominal pain need prompt medical attention.
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🎥 Watch next
→ Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g → Told You Don't Have a Hiatal Hernia? You Still Might — https://youtu.be/22KJRFB50A8
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400 ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki Petersen
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
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⚠️ MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This video is for people whose heart symptoms have already been evaluated by a doctor. New or unexplained palpitations should always be assessed by a healthcare professional first — they can have many causes, including serious heart rhythm disorders.
Seek emergency care immediately if palpitations occur with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a rapid heartbeat that won't stop.
This content is educational only — not a diagnosis, treatment, or replacement for medical care.
#hiatalhernia #acidreflux #heartpalpitations
5 Everyday Habits Making Your Hiatal Hernia Worse
07 oct. 2026
00:11:34
Some of the things you do every day — including things you think are healthy — may be quietly making your hiatal hernia worse, because nobody connected them to your hernia in the first place.
In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through five everyday habits that raise the pressure driving a hiatal hernia, simple adjustments you can start today, and why the real driver is different for every person.
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⏱️ What we cover → Why a hiatal hernia is a pressure problem - and what that changes → Big meals, eaten fast - the stretch-and-push effect → Lying down too soon after eating - and what to do instead → Straining and constipation - the daily pressure spike nobody mentions → The "healthy" ab workout that compresses your hernia → Blaming the acid while ignoring the gut
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💬 Tell me in the comments - which of the five surprised you? Which one are you changing first?
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⚠️ Important → Don't stop any reflux medication because of a video - rebound can be worse. Trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, or chest pain must be evaluated by a doctor promptly.
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🎥 Watch next → 5 Signs Your Acid Reflux Is Actually a Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/MzYAyJ6JNJo → Told You Don't Have a Hiatal Hernia? You Still Might — https://youtu.be/22KJRFB50A8
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP, is a certified functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic in Clearwater, Florida, serving patients nationwide by telemedicine. Her focus is hiatal hernia syndrome, acid reflux, and the gut-brain connection — finding and correcting the underlying cause of digestive symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
Signs You Might Have a Hiatal Hernia and Not Know It
06 oct. 2026
00:10:40
Most people with a hiatal hernia have no idea they have one — it hides behind reflux, bloating, anxiety, even heart and breathing symptoms. In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through the pattern of signs that point to a hiatal hernia, and tells you the honest truth about the "finger test," the "apple cider vinegar test," and why you can't actually diagnose this at home.
The honest bottom line: you can't confirm a hiatal hernia at home. You can recognize the pattern and use it to get a proper evaluation. This video is for recognition, not self-diagnosis.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
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⏱️ What we cover
→ Why most people who have a hiatal hernia don't know it → Why it hides — no bulge, and it slides in and out of view → Reflux that won't quit → Symptoms that change with your position → The bloating / burping / full-fast cluster → The "unrelated" symptoms that aren't → The truth about the "finger test" and the "apple cider vinegar test"
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💬 Tell me in the comments — how many of these signs are you?
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⚠️ Important
→ A hiatal hernia can't be diagnosed at home. See a doctor for a real evaluation. → Trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, or sudden severe chest/abdominal pain need prompt medical attention.
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🎥 Watch next
→ Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g → Told You Don't Have a Hiatal Hernia? You Still Might — https://youtu.be/22KJRFB50A8
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP, is a certified functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic in Clearwater, Florida, serving patients nationwide by telemedicine. Her focus is hiatal hernia syndrome, acid reflux, and the gut-brain connection — finding and correcting the underlying cause of digestive symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
Told You Don't Have a Hiatal Hernia? You Still Might
16 sept. 2026
00:10:51
If a test came back clear — or a hernia was found and called "too small to matter" — and you still have the symptoms, this video is for you. Dr. Vikki walks through why a sliding hiatal hernia is so easily missed, what the research actually says about hernia size and symptoms, and why a normal test result is not the same as a real answer.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400
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⏱️ What we cover
→ Why a sliding hernia is missed on endoscopy — up to a third of the time → Why a "clean scope" often means "nobody saw it that day" → "Too small to matter" — the sleight of hand between small in size and small in importance → Why size studies about reflux don't apply to palpitations, breathlessness, or anxiety → Why a normal test result is not the same as an answer
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⚠️ Important
→ Endoscopy is an important test. Trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, or chest pain must be evaluated by a doctor promptly.
→ This video is about the common small sliding hernia — not large or paraesophageal hernias, which may require surgery.
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🎥 Watch next
→ 5 Signs Your Acid Reflux Is Actually a Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/MzYAyJ6JNJo → Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400
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👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP, is a certified functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic in Clearwater, Florida, serving patients nationwide by telemedicine. Her focus is hiatal hernia syndrome, acid reflux, and the gut-brain connection — finding and correcting the underlying cause of digestive symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
What's Actually Happening During a Hiatal Hernia Attack
11 sept. 2026
00:11:39
A hiatal hernia "attack" can feel terrifying — crushing chest pressure, burning, breathlessness, a pounding heart, and a wave of panic that makes you wonder if it's a heart attack. In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through exactly what's happening inside your body during an attack, step by step — the pressure, the acid, the esophageal spasm, the trapped gas, the breathlessness, and the panic — so the episode that's been frightening you finally makes sense.
Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
PLEASE NOTE: Chest pain can be a heart problem. If your chest pain is new, severe, or comes with sweating, fainting, or pain down your arm, treat it as an emergency and get seen. This video is for people whose heart has already been evaluated and cleared.
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⏱️ What we cover → The trigger — how an attack begins (meals, lying down, bending) → Why the acid escapes and the burning starts → The esophageal spasm — and why it feels exactly like your heart → Trapped gas, fullness, and chest pressure → Why you can't get a full breath → The panic — why it's a real physical response, not "just anxiety" → How an attack ends, and why it leaves you wrecked
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💬 Tell me in the comments — have you had one of these? What did yours feel like?
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⚠️ Important → A hiatal hernia attack can feel identical to a heart attack. Any new, severe, or unexplained chest pain — especially with sweating, fainting, or arm pain — is an emergency. A strangulated hernia (severe unrelenting pain, vomiting, unable to pass gas) is also an emergency. This video is not a substitute for medical evaluation.
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🎥 Watch next
→ Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g → Heart Palpitations After Eating? It's Your Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/ZIDAPlLPTFA
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
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👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP, is a certified functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic in Clearwater, Florida, serving patients nationwide by telemedicine. Her focus is hiatal hernia syndrome, acid reflux, and the gut-brain connection — finding and correcting the underlying cause of digestive symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
Heart Palpitations at Night? It's Your Hiatal Hernia
09 sept. 2026
00:14:12
You're lying in bed. Nothing stressful has happened. And your heart starts pounding, fluttering, skipping — or you jolt awake at two in the morning with your heart racing and a feeling of dread you can't explain. If your cardiologist has already checked you and told you your heart is healthy, and this still happens the moment you lie down, there's a reason — and it has nothing to do with your mind.
Dr. Vikki explains the gut-heart connection almost nobody looks at: why lying flat changes everything, and the three ways your stomach can set off your heart.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400
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⏱️ What we cover
→ Gravity — the one thing that changes when you lie down → The vagus nerve: why your gut and your heart share a communication line → Roemheld syndrome — the gastrocardiac connection, described over 100 years ago → Mechanism 1: the stomach presses up on the nerve → Mechanism 2: acid on the esophagus and the esophago-cardiac reflex → Mechanism 3: inflammation millimeters from your heart's electrical tissue → Why it isn't "just anxiety" — the positional tell that gives it away → The pressure-reflux loop, and why breaking it looks different for every person
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💬 Tell me in the comments — does yours start the moment you lie down? How long have you been told it's anxiety?
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⚠️ Important → Get your heart checked first. Palpitations with chest pain, fainting or near-fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a racing heart that won't stop are not wait-and-see — that is emergency care, now. This video is not a substitute for medical evaluation, and if you're being treated for anxiety, don't stop anything on the basis of a video.
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🎥 Watch next
→ 5 Signs Your Acid Reflux Is Actually a Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/MzYAyJ6JNJo → Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms You'd Never Connect to Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/-VSEeE9DT6g
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🩺 Work with us
We don't chase the palpitation — we find where your loop starts and take it apart there. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP, is a certified functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic in Clearwater, Florida, serving patients nationwide by telemedicine. Her focus is hiatal hernia syndrome, acid reflux, and the gut-brain connection — finding and correcting the underlying cause of digestive symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
A hiatal hernia can cause symptoms that have nothing to do with your stomach — a hoarse voice, upper back pain, a cough that won't quit, breathlessness, heart palpitations, stubborn hiccups, filling up after a few bites. Because they're scattered across the body, almost nobody connects them to one cause. In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through the surprising symptoms of a hiatal hernia and why one small problem can show up almost anywhere.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly at: 727-335-0400
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⏱️ What we cover
→ How one hernia causes symptoms all over the body — the vagus nerve, the diaphragm, and referred pain → Hiccups that keep coming back → A hoarse voice or a lump in the throat → Upper back and shoulder-blade pain → Feeling full after just a few bites → Shortness of breath → A chronic cough — and silent reflux (LPR) → Heart palpitations
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💬 Tell me in the comments — which of these surprised you? Which ones do you have?
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⚠️ Important → Some of these symptoms have other causes. Heart palpitations and chest pain must be evaluated by a doctor. Worsening trouble swallowing, food sticking, unexplained weight loss, vomiting blood, or black or tarry stools need prompt medical attention. This video is not a substitute for evaluation. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🎥 Watch next → Heart Palpitations After you Eat? It's Your Stomach — https://youtu.be/ZIDAPlLPTFA → 5 Signs Your Acid Reflux Is Actually a Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/MzYAyJ6JNJo
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🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI'S TEAM
You don't have to keep managing symptoms with no real answers.
Root Cause Medical Clinic helps patients across the country uncover why they're struggling — and what to do about it. We see patients via telemedicine nationwide.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
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👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI PETERSEN
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
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⚠️ MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This video is for people whose heart symptoms have already been evaluated by a doctor. New or unexplained palpitations should always be assessed by a healthcare professional first — they can have many causes, including serious heart rhythm disorders.
Seek emergency care immediately if palpitations occur with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a rapid heartbeat that won't stop.
This content is educational only — not a diagnosis, treatment, or replacement for medical care.
#hiatalhernia #acidreflux #heartpalpitations
Heart Palpitations After you Eat? It's Your Stomach
24 août 2026
00:13:15
Does your heart flutter, skip, pound, or race after eating — even though your cardiologist says you're fine?
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
You're not imagining it. There's a connection most doctors don't talk about: the gut-heart connection.
In this video, Dr. Vikki Petersen breaks down exactly how a hiatal hernia, stomach pressure, acid reflux, and the vagus nerve can trigger heart palpitations after meals — and why the timing of your symptoms is the most important clue.
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⏱️ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
→ The vagus nerve — the direct communication highway between your gut and your heart → Roemheld Syndrome (Gastrocardiac Syndrome) — a gut-heart connection documented over 100 years ago → The gastrocardiac reflex — how stomach distension after eating can affect heart rhythm → The esophago-cardiac reflex — how acid reflux and irritation may influence your heartbeat → Hiatal hernia & palpitations — why symptoms appear or worsen after meals → Inflammation & the left atrium — another hidden pathway connecting the esophagus and heart → Anxiety vs. a physical trigger — how to tell the difference → What may actually help — addressing the root cause, not just the symptom
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🎥 WATCH NEXT
→ GERD, Silent Reflux, or Hiatal Hernia - What's Actually Causing Your Symptoms?: https://youtu.be/MNA8lNkJuEI → 5 Signs Your Anxiety Is Actually Your Hiatal Hernia: https://youtu.be/-nrA9ttzKfQ
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🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI'S TEAM
You don't have to keep managing symptoms with no real answers.
Root Cause Medical Clinic helps patients across the country uncover why they're struggling — and what to do about it. We see patients via telemedicine nationwide.
→ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI PETERSEN
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
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⚠️ MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This video is for people whose heart symptoms have already been evaluated by a doctor. New or unexplained palpitations should always be assessed by a healthcare professional first — they can have many causes, including serious heart rhythm disorders.
Seek emergency care immediately if palpitations occur with chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a rapid heartbeat that won't stop.
This content is educational only — not a diagnosis, treatment, or replacement for medical care.
#heartpalpitations #hiatalhernia #acidreflux
5 Signs Your Acid Reflux Is Actually a Hiatal Hernia
05 août 2026
00:16:56
Reflux is a symptom, not a diagnosis. In this video, Dr. Vikki explains the two-part valve that keeps acid where it belongs, what a hiatal hernia does when it pulls that valve apart, and the five signs that point to a mechanical problem instead of an acid problem.
If your reflux changes when you change position — that's not an acid clue. That's a gravity clue.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
✔️ Why reflux is a symptom, not a diagnosis—and what that changes about your treatment ✔️ The two-part valve that keeps acid down—and why it was never one valve ✔️ What a sliding hiatal hernia does to that valve mechanically ✔️ The numbers: 20% → 30% → 70% → 96%—how hernia rates climb with reflux severity ✔️ Why reflux that follows your position—lying down, bending over, after meals—is a gravity clue, not an acid clue ✔️ Regurgitation vs. heartburn—and the bile your acid blocker doesn't touch ✔️ Why acid-reducing medications don't repair the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) ✔️ What it actually means when years of pills never fixed the problem ✔️ Why bloating, burping, and getting full fast are one problem—not two ✔️ How increased abdominal pressure drives symptoms—and why it's not just about weight
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⚠️ Please read → Don't stop any reflux medication because of a video. Rebound acid can be worse than the original symptoms — taper only with your doctor. → Get evaluated right away for: trouble swallowing, food getting stuck, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss, or chest pain. → This video is education, not medical advice, and doesn't create a doctor-patient relationship.
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🎥 Watch next → Misdiagnosed? 5 Signs it's your Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/scR4FKAajh8 → Acid Reflux Pill Is Hurting You? — https://youtu.be/LBKcTXjDhKw → 5 Signs Your Anxiety Is Actually Your Hiatal Hernia — https://youtu.be/-nrA9ttzKfQ
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms - not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
⚕️ This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider. Views reflect Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of publication. Individual results may vary.
#HiatalHernia #AcidReflux #GERD
Acid Reflux Pill Hurting You?
01 août 2026
00:14:06
Acid reflux pills like Prilosec, Nexium, and Protonix were designed for about 8 weeks of use — yet millions of people stay on them for years.
In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through 5 signs your acid reflux medication may be hurting you, why you feel like you can never stop taking it, and what to look at instead.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⏱️ What we cover
→ Fatigue and low iron or B12 → Muscle cramps and heart flutters — the magnesium connection → New food reactions and the gluten link → Why you can't seem to stop — the rebound trap → The hidden long-term cost — bones, kidneys, gut
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ Important
Do not stop or change any prescribed medication without your doctor — acid reflux medications need to be tapered, not stopped cold. Reflux medications help real people with real conditions; this video is about the cost of staying on them for years, not a reason to quit yours today. If you have trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or chest pain, seek care.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 Work with us
We find and treat the root cause of acid reflux and hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 727-335-0400
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
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⚕️ This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider. Views reflect Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of publication. Individual results may vary.
#acidreflux #ppi #hiatalhernia
Misdiagnosed? 5 Signs it's your Hiatal Hernia
30 juil. 2026
00:13:30
Have you been told you have GERD, asthma, anxiety, IBS, or heart palpitations—but treatment isn't solving the problem?
Your diagnosis may not be wrong... it may be incomplete.
In this video, Dr. Vikki explains 5 common symptoms that are frequently blamed on other conditions when a hiatal hernia is actually causing them—or making them worse. You'll learn how a sliding hiatal hernia can affect digestion, breathing, the vagus nerve, and reflux, and why so many people continue to suffer despite normal test results.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
✔️ What a hiatal hernia is—and why 95% are sliding hiatal hernias ✔️ Why bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and trapped gas can affect your diaphragm ✔️ Why acid reflux medications don't repair the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) ✔️ How hiatal hernias can contribute to shortness of breath ✔️ The connection between chronic cough, throat clearing, hoarseness, and silent reflux ✔️ How vagus nerve irritation may contribute to heart palpitations and chest pressure ✔️ Why endoscopy can miss many sliding hiatal hernias ✔️ The truth behind the phrase, "Your hernia is too small to cause symptoms"
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📚 FEATURED TOPICS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ MEDICAL DISCLAIMER ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
This video is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Never stop prescribed medications without speaking with your healthcare provider. Chest pain, severe shortness of breath, progressive difficulty swallowing, or persistent heart palpitations should always be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
If you're struggling with hiatal hernia symptoms and want to address the root cause, our team at Root Cause Medical Clinic provides comprehensive evaluations and telemedicine consultations for patients across the United States.
📅 Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
📞 Call us: 727-335-0400
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🎥 WATCH NEXT ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
▶️ 5 Signs Your Anxiety Is Actually Your Hiatal Hernia: https://youtu.be/-nrA9ttzKfQ
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic, Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (FMCP) and founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. She has helped thousands of patients uncover the underlying causes of chronic digestive disorders, acid reflux, hiatal hernia syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and complex health issues through a root-cause, evidence-informed approach.
Some hiatal hernia symptoms are easy to dismiss - and a few of them are the ones that matter most. In this video, Dr. Vikki walks through the five symptoms you should never ignore, what causes each one, and which symptom means you should call your doctor today.
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call or text us directly: 727-335-0400
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⏱️ What we cover
→ Chest pressure and tightness — and how to tell it apart from your heart → Trouble swallowing or food getting stuck → Waking up choking or coughing at night → Heart palpitations and the gut-heart connection → Shortness of breath and your diaphragm
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ When to seek care immediately
→ Vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, sudden severe chest pain, or inability to swallow are emergencies — seek care now.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 Work with Dr Vikki's Team
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms — not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
→ Schedule a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki
Dr. Vikki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years in practice. She specializes in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, hormones, and GERD — finding and fixing root causes, not managing symptoms.
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⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions about your health. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
Why Hiatal Hernia Causes Chest Pressure and Excessive Burping
17 juil. 2026
00:19:52
If you've had chest pain after eating that goes away when you burp - or you can't stop burping no matter what you do - this video is for you.
Neither of these is random. Neither is psychological. Both are mechanical symptoms of the same root cause: a hiatal hernia that hasn't been properly addressed.
In this video I'm explaining exactly what's happening in both cases - and giving you practical steps you can start using today.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → Why trapped gas causes chest pain that mimics a heart attack → How the vagus nerve turns gas pressure into heart palpitations → The pressure-peak-relief cycle and why it keeps repeating → What aerophagia is and why it causes constant uncontrollable burping → Supragastric belching — the reflex that gets mistaken for anxiety → Why diaphragmatic breathing strengthens the crura and increases LES pressure (with published research)
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Root Cause Medical Clinic sees patients nationwide via telemedicine. → Schedule a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 727-335-0400
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📺 RELATED VIDEOS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → 5 Signs Your Hiatal Hernia Is Getting Worse → Why Your Hiatal Hernia Is Causing Your Anxiety → Why Bloating Triggers Heart Palpitations
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Dr. Vikki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years in practice. She specializes in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, hormones, and GERD - finding and fixing root causes, not managing symptoms.
Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Telemedicine available nationwide
⚠️ This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for your individual situation.
Why Hiatal Hernia Surgery Fails
16 juil. 2026
00:10:23
🩺 Surgery might sound like the obvious fix - but for most hiatal hernia patients, it's not the permanent solution they were promised. Dr. Vikki Petersen breaks down exactly why, and what to do instead.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
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⏱️ In This Video
→ Which hiatal hernias actually need surgery - and which don't → The types of surgery and how they differ → Short-term success vs. the long-term reality → Why the repair keeps coming undone → The root cause almost every surgeon skips
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⚠️ Seek Emergency Care If You Experience:
Sudden severe chest or upper abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or inability to keep food or liquid down. Don't wait.
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About Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
⚕️ This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider. Views reflect Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of publication. Individual results may vary.
5 Signs Your Anxiety Is Actually Your Hiatal Hernia
14 juil. 2026
00:18:31
If you've been told your symptoms are "just anxiety" but treatment never fully worked, there may be a physical cause that's been missed.
In this video, Dr. Vikki explains how a hiatal hernia can irritate the vagus nerve and produce the exact symptoms we call anxiety - and the five signs that point to your hernia instead of your mind.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⏱️ What we cover
→ Why symptoms hit after meals, not when you're worried → Heart palpitations and the vagus nerve → Breathlessness that calming down won't fix → Throat and chest tightness with no stress behind it → Nighttime panic when you lie down
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ Important
Chest pain and palpitations should always be evaluated by a doctor. Anxiety is a real condition — this video is about a physical cause that is often overlooked, not a reason to stop any treatment.
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🩺 Work with us
We treat the root cause of hiatal hernia symptoms - not just the symptoms. Root Cause Medical Clinic offers telemedicine nationwide.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, FMCP
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and digestive root cause medicine. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic - offering telemedicine consultations nationwide. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
⚕️ This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider. Views reflect Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of publication. Individual results may vary.
#hiatalhernia #anxiety #vagusnerve
5 Things Making Your Hiatal Hernia Worse
15 juin 2026
00:13:56
If you have a hiatal hernia and you're still suffering despite medication and diet changes, something you're doing every single day may be making it worse. Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
These aren't unusual triggers. They're completely ordinary habits that nobody has told you are a problem - because most doctors aren't looking at this mechanically.
In this video I'm walking you through 5 everyday habits that are directly aggravating your hiatal hernia - and what to do instead.
Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Telemedicine available nationwide | https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → Why grazing and snacking disrupts your gut's natural cleaning cycle (MMC) → What happens to your hiatal hernia every time you strain on the toilet → Why sparkling water may be causing more damage than you think → How tight clothing and sucking in your stomach restricts your diaphragm → How to tell if chronic stress is mechanically aggravating your hernia daily
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Root Cause Medical Clinic sees patients nationwide via telemedicine. → Schedule a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📺 RELATED VIDEOS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → 5 Signs Your Hiatal Hernia Is Getting Worse: https://youtu.be/wER9WM9jToY → Hiatal Hernia ATTACK Feels Like This: https://youtu.be/zVzSVNyDLkY → GERD, Silent Reflux, or Hiatal Hernia - What's Actually Causing Your Symptoms?: https://youtu.be/MNA8lNkJuEI
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Dr. Vikki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years in practice. She specializes in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, hormones, and GERD — finding and fixing root causes, not managing symptoms.
⚠️ This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for your individual situation.
Acid Reflux: Why it's Worse at Night
15 juin 2026
00:12:43
If your acid reflux is worst at night - waking up with acid coming up, chest pressure, throat burning, or palpitations - you are not imagining it.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available
Nighttime is mechanically the hardest time for a sliding hiatal hernia, and most patients have never had anyone explain why
In this video I'm walking you through exactly why your hiatal hernia behaves differently at night - and for each reason, a practical tip you can start using tonight.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → Why lying flat eliminates the mechanical advantage you have during the day - and how to get it back → How eating close to bedtime compounds overnight instability → Which side you sleep on and why it matters more than you think → Why you wake up at 2–3 AM even when you were careful about dinner → Why the morning cortisol surge causes your worst symptoms before you've eaten anything
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Root Cause Medical Clinic sees patients nationwide via telemedicine. → Schedule a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📺 RELATED VIDEOS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → 5 Signs Your Hiatal Hernia Is Getting Worse → Why Your Hiatal Hernia Is Causing Your Anxiety → 5 Everyday Habits That Make Your Hiatal Hernia Worse
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience specializing in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and the root causes of digestive symptoms. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic, offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
🌐 Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available Nationwide
⚕️Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions about your health. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
Hiatal Hernia & Anxiety: It's Not In Your Head
08 juin 2026
00:13:28
If you have a hiatal hernia and you also struggle with anxiety, unexplained unease, or panic that seems to come out of nowhere - this video is for you.
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly: 727-335-0400
It is not in your head. It is not a separate problem. Your gut and your brain are in constant communication through the vagus nerve, and when your hiatal hernia is disrupting that communication, anxiety is a direct neurological result.
In this video I'm walking you through exactly how your hiatal hernia is producing anxiety - the specific mechanisms - and why addressing the gut is the missing piece nobody has offered you.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → How vagus nerve irritation from your hernia keeps you in fight-or-flight → Why chronic bloating and distension produce a direct anxiety response in the brain → The evolutionary reason your brain treats gut distension as a threat → How dysbiosis disrupts serotonin and GABA production - the chemistry of gut-caused anxiety → Why the anxiety-gut loop doesn't stop on its own without addressing the root cause
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🩺 WORK WITH DR. VIKKI'S TEAM ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Root Cause Medical Clinic sees patients nationwide via telemedicine. → Schedule a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📺 RELATED VIDEOS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → 5 Signs Your Hiatal Hernia Is Getting Worse: https://youtu.be/wER9WM9jToY → Why Bloating Triggers Heart Palpitations: https://youtu.be/PZvcShFPy3k → GERD vs. Hiatal Hernia vs. Silent Reflux: https://youtu.be/MNA8lNkJuEI
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Dr. Vikki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years in practice. She specializes in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, hormones, and GERD — finding and fixing root causes, not managing symptoms.
Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Telemedicine available nationwide
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions about your health. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
5 Signs Your Hiatal Hernia is Getting Worse
18 mai 2026
00:10:34
Most people with a hiatal hernia are told to manage symptoms. But a hiatal hernia can get worse - and it doesn't have to be getting larger. Functional worsening can happen even when your scan looks the same.
➡️ Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available
In this video, I'm walking you through 5 specific signs that your sliding hiatal hernia is progressing functionally, not just flaring. If you recognize three or more of these, it's time to address the root cause.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ → Why symptoms moving to your throat or voice is a warning sign → What difficulty swallowing actually means at the tissue level → Why position-dependent symptoms signal functional instability → Why your medication working less is a structural signal, not a dosing problem → What it means when symptoms happen without eating at all
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📺 RELATED VIDEOS ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ▶️ Hiatal Hernia Attack Feels Like This: https://youtu.be/zVzSVNyDLkY ▶️ Why Bloating Triggers Heart Palpitations: https://youtu.be/PZvcShFPy3k ▶️ GERD, Silent Reflux, or Hiatal Hernia - What's Actually Causing Your Symptoms?: https://youtu.be/MNA8lNkJuEI
👩⚕️ About Dr. Vikki Petersen:
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience specializing in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, GERD, and the root causes of digestive symptoms. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic, offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
🌐 Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available Nationwide
⚕️Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions about your health. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
If you've been told surgery is your only option — or that you'll be on PPIs forever — there are some things you need to know first.
In this video, Dr. Vikki Petersen breaks down 5 of the most common hiatal hernia myths and sets the record straight with research-backed facts.
THE 5 HIATAL HERNIA MYTHS:
❌ MYTH #1: Surgery is a permanent fix Nearly 1 in 4 patients require PPI medication again within a few years. Up to 50% experience complications including difficulty swallowing, bloating, and inability to burp or vomit.
❌ MYTH #2: PPIs are safe to take long-term PPIs are only approved for 2 weeks at a time. Long-term use is linked to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, osteoporosis, dementia, stomach cancer, and a weakened microbiome.
❌ MYTH #3: Acid reflux always causes heartburn 50% of reflux is completely silent. It may show up as chronic cough, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing — and some reflux is caused by too little acid or bile, making PPIs completely ineffective.
❌ MYTH #4: Endoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis Endoscopy misses the most common type of hiatal hernia nearly 48% of the time. Manometry and impedance pH monitoring are far more accurate — but rarely used.
❌ MYTH #5: You have to be overweight to have hiatal hernia Weight alone isn't the issue — visceral fat is. A person can be a normal weight and still have dangerous levels of visceral fat driving abdominal pressure and symptoms.
ABOUT DR. VIKKI:
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a functional medicine doctor and founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. She specializes in gut health, digestive disorders, and identifying the root cause of chronic symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely with medication.
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Disclaimer: Educational content reviewed by licensed medical staff. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment plan. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or heard here. The information shared reflects clinical experience and current scientific research at the time of publication. Individual results may vary, and no guarantees of specific outcomes are made. This content does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
Struggling with acid reflux, bloating, or unexplained symptoms?
Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available
If you’re dealing with multiple symptoms like heartburn, shortness of breath, or palpitations and not getting clear answers, you’re not alone. These issues are often treated separately—but may actually share the same root cause.
In this episode, Dr. Vikki Petersen explains the 4 major symptoms of hiatal hernia syndrome and why they occur.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- The 4 key symptoms of hiatal hernia and how they’re connected - How mechanical changes in the diaphragm and stomach lead to reflux and bloating - The role of the vagus nerve in symptoms like palpitations and shortness of breath - How inflammation and gut imbalances contribute to worsening symptoms - Practical ways to begin addressing the root cause through diet, lifestyle, and testing
ABOUT DR. VIKKI:
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a functional medicine doctor and founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. She specializes in gut health, autoimmune conditions, and identifying the root cause of chronic symptoms.
Disclaimer: Educational content reviewed by licensed medical staff. This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment plan. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or heard here. The information shared reflects clinical experience and current scientific research at the time of publication. Individual results may vary, and no guarantees of specific outcomes are made. This content does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
What is the most important step you can take for gut health and preventing disease? It costs you nothing additional to fill this gap in your diet.
In the episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains a critical missing element in the American diet which is setting us up for weight gain, diabetes, cancer risk and depression.
We're talking about short chain fatty acids (SCFA) - a type of fat produced in your colon from microbes. They are named: butyrate, propionate and acetate.
Benefits? Stabilizes blood sugar Supports your metabolism Strengthens your immune system Balances brain health
Practical examples: Study of young men with diabetes - improved the microbes (bacteria) in their gut and they instantly had better blood sugar control.
People with cancer who “failed” immunotherapy - a treatment that requires your immune system to be strong enough to arm a defense against the cancer cells. Once their microbes were restored to a healthy level they successfully responded to the immunotherapy. Interesting melanoma research in the references below.
Did you know - people born in 1990s are 4x more likely to develop rectal cancer and 2x more likely to develop colon cancer in their lifetime as compared to their parents who were born in the 1950s?
People with depression - “gave” their microbes (via fecal transplant) to mice and the mice got depressed. Those humans with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, Alzheimer’s - do NOT have healthy microbiomes.
How it works: Your gut is “outside” your body - mouth to your anus is closed system. On the other side of the gut lining is 70% of your immune system The microbes IN your gut maintain the gut lining. When you eat fiber it's untouched until it reaches your colon Why? We don’t have the enzymes to break it down - only microbes do.
What are we talking about? Soluble fiber - remains intact until it gets into the colon and then a feeding frenzy ensues by your microbes because soluble fiber is their preferred fuel. NOW the magic happens! The microbes eat the fiber and they release a fat called SCFA. SCFAs then enter your bloodstream and within seconds are circulating everywhere with healing effects to your metabolism, insulin levels, decreasing inflammation and protecting your brain SCFAs have multiple mechanisms by which they can destroy tumor cells - they do this by empowering your immune system.
Now the problem: These amazing SCFAs are produced by eating fiber and most Americans (95%) don’t get even the bare minimum. 38gm in men, 25 gm in women. Soluble fiber found in ALL plants - fruit, vegetable, nut, seed and bean. How to get the healthiest microbiome? Fiber? YES Diversity is key - different plants' fiber feed different microbes. Eat 30 plants per week = healthiest guts.
Note on Carnivore: they say you don’t need fiber but there are no human studies to support robust SFFA production and microbial diversity without fiber.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause. ➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/locations/telemedicine/ 📞 Call us: (727) 335-0400
Why Bloating Triggers Heart Palpitations
30 avr. 2026
00:13:46
Struggling with bloating and heart palpitations? ➡️ Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Root Cause Medical Clinic | Clearwater, FL | Functional Medicine | Telehealth Available
If you've been told your heart is fine but you're still dealing with palpitations, irregular rhythm, or chest tightness after meals — your heart may not be the problem. Bloating and hiatal hernia can trigger real cardiac symptoms through a connection most doctors never check.
In this video, Dr. Vikki Petersen explains why bloating triggers heart palpitations, the role of the gastrocardiac reflex, and how hiatal hernia creates mechanical pressure on the heart through the diaphragm.
- Why a bloated or distended stomach can directly trigger heart palpitations and irregular rhythm — including AFib - The gastrocardiac reflex: how your gut and your heart communicate through the vagus nerve - The anatomical reason even a small hiatal hernia can irritate the heart's outer layer (without anything being structurally wrong with your heart) - Why treating the gut alone — or the vagus nerve alone — is rarely enough for lasting relief - How shallow breathing caused by bloating creates a cycle that worsens both digestion and cardiac symptoms - The root cause approach to resolving these symptoms rather than managing them indefinitely
Watch my vagal AFib and hiatal hernia video here: https://youtu.be/vx2x00uCcf8 Watch my Gas and Bloating are NOT Normal video here: https://youtu.be/uhz0rVli53Y
Dr. Vikki Petersen is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience specializing in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, and the root causes of digestive and cardiac symptoms. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic, offering telemedicine consultations nationwide.
This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with questions about your health or treatment options. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
Have you rushed to the ER convinced you were having a heart attack? You had heart palpitations, shortness of breath and anxiety out the roof? You also suffer with acid reflux, bloat, gas, and/or constipation.
Every test comes back normal, but your heart still races, the shortness of breath impacts your day to day life and your gut is a mess.
Your cardiologist assures you there's nothing wrong, yet you feel "off" and keep suffering.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains what the 3 missing "pieces" of Hiatal Hernia Syndrome are and why they need to be evaluated in order to achieve successful relief.
We utilize a patient-tailored approach - Personalized medicine, because there isn't a "one size fits all" solution. Diet, posture, breathing - why “one size doesn’t fit all”
Symptoms influenced by: diet, digestion efficiency, motility within the gut, microbiome health, diaphragmatic breathing, and vagal nerve tone
1. DIET Recent work highlights that diet composition—not just acid suppression—matters for reflux and hiatal hernia symptom burden. Interventions focusing on reduced overall sugar intake, increased fiber, and mindful eating patterns SMOKING & WEIGHT Risk factor data indicate abdominal pressure, physical workload, smoking, and central adiposity are risk factors.
2. MOTILITY & MICROBIOME Current GERD/hiatal hernia literature recognizes the influence of gut motility and possibly microbiome interactions on reflux patterns. PPIs, given for reflux, can make it worse - can’t be the only treatment. You can’t feel the reflux but it’s still there. It doesn’t correct motility or pressure issues
3. STRESS Stress reduction and vagal nerve influence
TIPS Eat smaller meals Stop eating 3–4 hours before bed Avoid tight clothing Chew thoroughly Avoid large mixed meals late at night Pay attention to early fullness, bloating, or nausea Walk after meals Stay upright for at least 20–30 minutes after eating. Belly breathing - before meals and practiced during the day Diaphragm part of anti-reflux barrier so needs to be exercised Address constipation and gas - increases pressure
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause. ➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400
About this channel: Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CFMP, is founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. Our multidisciplinary team of licensed APRNs and clinicians provides functional medicine care focusing on gut, hormone, and metabolic health. Educational videos are reviewed by licensed medical staff and based on current scientific research.
3 Foods that Secretly Cause Acid Reflux (It's Not What You Think)
22 avr. 2026
00:12:11
🔥 Still dealing with acid reflux after cutting out all the "bad" foods? Book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ | Clearwater, FL | Telehealth Available
You eliminated coffee, wine, and spicy food - and your reflux is still there. If standard dietary advice hasn't worked, these three foods are likely why, and most doctors never think to check them. In this video, Dr. Vikki Petersen breaks down three commonly overlooked foods that silently drive acid reflux through inflammation, delayed gastric emptying, and a weakened lower esophageal sphincter - not excess acid.
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🧠 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN → Why gluten triggers acid reflux even without a celiac diagnosis → The dairy connection most doctors miss and how it affects your esophageal valve → Why a popular "digestive aid" is actually making your reflux worse → How these foods drive reflux through gut inflammation - not acid overproduction → Why finding the root cause of reflux means looking beyond antacids and standard elimination diets
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🔎 WANT TO FIND THE ROOT CAUSE? Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help identify what's truly driving your digestive symptoms. ➡️ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 Call us: (727) 335-0400
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👩⚕️ ABOUT DR. VIKKI PETERSEN Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CFMP, is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with 40 years of clinical experience, specializing in gut health, acid reflux, GERD, and chronic digestive conditions conventional medicine often misses. She is the founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic, where a multidisciplinary team of licensed APRNs and clinicians provides functional medicine care focused on gut, hormone, and metabolic health.
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⚠️ DISCLAIMER This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with questions about your health or treatment options. Views expressed are based on Dr. Petersen's clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the publication date. Individual results may vary.
Fatty liver prevalence is 40% and most people don’t know they have it. It's closely tied to diabetes, heart disease, and long-term liver damage.
In this episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains the association between PPI medication and fatty liver.
Secret #1 Observational studies have found that people taking proton pump inhibitors have a higher prevalence of Fatty Liver Risk -dose and duration dependent (1–2 years) The mechanism: gut microbiome disruption PPIs reduce stomach acid → that changes what survives the upper GI tract. leads to: Increased bacterial overgrowth - SIBO link - PPIs are strongly linked with SIBO - creates gas, pressure and reflux. Toxin-producing bacteria - lead to liver fat accumulation
PPI → SIBO → pressure + endotoxins → reflux + fatty liver PPIs change the gut in a way that makes the body send more fat to the liver. Secret #2: Your gut talks to your liver Almost everything absorbed from your intestines travels straight to the liver first. 1. The wrong bacteria start to grow when stomach acid is suppressed. You start getting more bacteria that create irritating byproducts. 2. Those bacteria produce toxins 3. The gut lining gets irritated and more permeable 4. Those toxins slip into the bloodstream 5. They go straight to the liver. Blood from the intestines goes directly to the liver through the portal vein. 6. The liver reacts like it’s under attack and activates an inflammatory response. 7. Changes how the liver handles fat- burning is less efficient and the fat export system gets impaired - the result is fat accumulating inside liver cells. 8. Fat plus inflammation is where the real problem starts That combination is what can drive progression from simple fatty liver toward a more damaged, inflamed liver. Secret #3 - fix the gut signal coming into your liver - the focus isn’t on the liver but what’s being sent to it. Restore stomach acid or stop suppressing it. It’s how you prevent bacterial overgrowth. Reduce overgrowth and fermentation
TIPS: Stop snacking Space meals 4 hours apart - MMC cleans house Chew thoroughly Walk after meals
Strengthen gut barrier Eat whole foods - add polyphenols (berries, broccoli, tea, cacao,nuts and seeds) Fiber Get adequate high quality protein Remove triggers - ultra-processed foods, alcohol, sugar
Lower the fat coming into your liver Reduce insulin spikes w/ less frequent eating Reduce excess sugar/fructose intake Improve insulin sensitivity w/ movement after meals and exercise - aerobic and resistance training helps manage blood sugar levels for 24 to 72 hours.
If you’ve tried the basics and aren’t improving, it usually means something deeper is driving it—and that’s where a more comprehensive evaluation makes the difference.That’s exactly what we focus on—identifying and addressing the root causes behind these patterns, not just managing the surface symptoms evaluation of: SIBO / dysbiosis Gut barrier function Inflammation markers Insulin resistance / metabolic markers Liver function beyond basic labs
References: 1. Pyo JH et al. Proton pump inhibitors use and the risk of fatty liver disease 2021, Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2. Yu H et al. Proton pump inhibitor use is associated with increased hepatic steatosis in US adults 2024, Biomedical Reports 3. Huang H et al. Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 2024, Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology 4. Fossmark R et al. Changes in the gastrointestinal microbiota induced by proton pump inhibitors 2024, Microorganisms
#guthealth #acidreflux #fattyliver
Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is intended for educational p
Heartburn After 45: What's Changing
30 mars 2026
00:12:40
Have you noticed an increase in acid reflux with age? Some studies cite the increased risk at ~47% in women during perimenopause and menopause.
Women using hormone replacement have an increased risk of reflux of 40 to 70% as compared to women not using hormones.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why women tend to experience more reflux as they approach perimenopause and menopause.
This has prompted the question of whether those on hormones had to be put on a PPI to handle their reflux OR stop their hormones to settle the heartburn? You don’t need to make that decision.
You can enjoy the benefits of HRT on your heart, your bones, your brain and your urinary tract without having to put up with the dangerous side effects of PPIs - on your heart, your bones, your brain and your kidneys! Isn’t that interesting - The negative side effects on your organs mirror the benefits of HRT on the same organs!
The good news is that the deeper causes of heartburn and reflux can be addressed without losing the benefits of hormones.
Studies show women in perimenopause/menopause are several times more likely to experience reflux than younger women, with some surveys finding ~40–47% reporting symptoms in midlife.
Large pooled studies have shown that women using systemic hormone therapy have higher odds of reporting GERD symptoms compared with women who haven’t used it — roughly 29–66% higher in various analyses.
Is this associative or causal?
Perimenopausal/menopausal women report more reflux even without hormone therapy, likely due to shifting estrogen and progesterone levels, slower gut motility, weight distribution changes, and other age-related factors. Most women do experience an increase in heartburn with age, especially around perimenopause and menopause.
Some women notice a change in reflux when starting hormone therapy — and studies show a higher prevalence of reported reflux in hormone users — but this doesn’t prove HRT is a direct cause in every case.
The mechanisms likely involve both hormone-related smooth muscle effects AND other underlying factors (pressure, motility, hernia mechanics, weight patterns), which is why the “full story” is more complex than just hormones alone.
Progesterone does relax smooth muscle affecting the lower esophageal sphincter. So yes — in some women, HRT can lead to reflux. But here’s what matters. If your diaphragm is strong, abdominal pressure normal, stomach empties properly, and thee's no hiatal hernia — the small hormonal shift usually won’t cause symptoms. Reflux isn’t caused by acid alone. And it’s rarely caused by hormones alone.
Solutions If a woman needs HRT for: hot flashes, bone protection, brain or mood support, genitourinary (bladder) syndrome
The answer is not: “Stop HRT and start a PPI.”, but evaluate: ✔ Diaphragm function ✔ Constipation ✔ Abdominal pressure causes ✔ Weight distribution ✔ Stomach motility In other words: fix the gut.
References: 1. Jacobson BC et al. (2008) Postmenopausal hormone use and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, Archives of Internal Medicine 2. Aldhaleei WA et al. (2023) The association between menopausal hormone therapy and gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Menopause 3. Close H et al. (2012) Hormone replacement therapy is associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a retrospective cohort study, BMC Gastroenterology 4. Saleh S et al. (2022/2023) Effect of Hormonal Replacement Therapy on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and its Complications in Post-Menopausal Women, Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology
In this episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains 3 reasons why an acidic stomach develops and what you can do to dramatically improve your symptoms.
Most “acid stomach” symptoms are driven by pressure pushing contents upward, not acid being overproduced.
Key drivers: Increased intra-abdominal pressure Hiatal hernia Constipation Central weight gain Tight diaphragm / poor breathing mechanics
When pressure rises, acid moves where it shouldn’t. If pressure inside the abdomen rises, acid gets pushed upward. That’s when it burns. What actually lowers pressure: Stop overeating (smaller meals) Eat slower Fix constipation Reduce bloating triggers Practice diaphragmatic breathing Don’t lie down within 2–3 hours of eating
This alone has the potential to resolve symptoms for many people.
Improve Digestion so Food doesn’t Sit and Ferment If food sits too long: It ferments Gas forms Pressure rises Reflux follows
What can fix this: Chew thoroughly Avoid constant snacking Space meals 4–5 hours apart Support motility (walking after meals) Identify food triggers
Acid suppression does not fix fermentation.
Calm the Irritated Lining Sometimes the acid is normal — the lining is just sensitive. Common irritants: NSAIDs Alcohol Ultra-processed foods High sugar diet Chronic stress H. pylori infection (bacteria in stomach)
What helps: Remove irritants Short-term targeted support (not lifelong suppression) - e.g. antacid Improve sleep Lower stress Restore gut barrier function
If you feel like your stomach has too much acid, here’s the truth — most of the time it’s not too much acid. It’s pressure. It’s poor digestion creating gas. Or it’s an irritated lining that’s become sensitive. Lower the pressure. Improve digestion. Calm the inflammation. That fixes the cause — not just the symptom.
References: 1. Pandolfino et al., 2006 "High-resolution manometry of the EGJ: evidence of a pressure gradient driving reflux" Gastroenterology 2. Kahrilas et al., 2012 "The acid pocket and its role in GERD", American Journal of Gastroenterology 3. Penagini et al., 1998 "Mechanisms of postprandial gastroesophageal reflux in humans", Gastroenterology 4. Wu et al., 2004 "Overeating and GERD symptoms" American Journal of Gastroenterology 5. Parkman et al., 2004 "Delayed gastric emptying in GERD" American Journal of Gastroenterology 6. Piche et al., 2003 "Colonic fermentation influences LES relaxation" Gastroenterology 7. Freedberg et al., 2015 "The impact of PPIs on the gut microbiome", Gastroenterology 8. Imhann et al., 2016 "Proton pump inhibitors affect gut microbiome", Gut 9. Vanuytsel et al., 2014 "Psychological stress and intestinal barrier function" Gut 10. Fass et al., 2001 "Functional heartburn: acid is not always the cause" Gastroenterology
#acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause.&
The Hidden Cause of Constipation
25 mars 2026
00:17:43
Constipation isn’t just about what you eat — it’s about whether your gut is getting the right signals to move.
In the episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why you may be suffering from constipation.
3 secrets:
1.Your Gut Runs on Nerve Signals Your gut runs on nerve signals -which are highly energy dependent.
Vitamin B1 is required to convert glucose → energy With lower B1 → weaker nerve signaling - the gut isn’t getting strong, signals and the result is constipation.
Research- thiamine deficiency rates from about 20% to 90% depending on the population studied. Obese people - deficiency of 15% to 29%. Diabetics - B1 75% lower in the blood. High carbohydrate diet puts you at risk because glucose in blood requires more B1 to break down the carbs thereby creating a higher demand
2.Your Gut Muscles Have to Respond The nerves send the signal, but the muscles have to respond to the signal. muscles need to contract and relax in sequence
Research -magnesium intake is commonly inadequate. ~60% of American adults do not meet the recommended magnesium intake. ~45% of Americans may be magnesium deficient.
When magnesium levels low, those signals weaken and slow the gut. Constipation, reflux, and bloating often occur together -they are all motility disorders. stomach emptying slows → reflux small intestine motility slows → fermentation of bacteria leading to infection, bloat, gas, SIBO, leaky gut, increased IAP. Leads to hiatal hernia. colon motility slows → constipation
It’s all one issue: with constipation you cannot have a healthy gut.
Why?
Refined grains remove minerals- whole grains contain magnesium, refined don't. Ultra-processed food diets Certain medications - like PPIs, antibiotics, diuretics
Magnesium dense foods: pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds (also B1), almonds, legumes (also have B1), dark leafy greens. Dark Chocolate and avocado.
3. How Modern Diets Slow Your Gut - SAD (standard American diet) works against motility Ultra-processed foods, sugar can:
disrupt the gut microbiome - more bad bacteria reduce beneficial bacterial byproducts that stimulate motility increase inflammation - fatigue, feeling “off” and mood changes Causes B1 and magnesium depletion.
People are missing good compounds:
Polyphenols -plants, berries, tea, and herbs. Support beneficial bacteria and motility. Fiber -start low and slow: Insoluble fiber feeds microbes that produce short-chain fatty acids. with bad bacteria the fiber can eat that too - so you feel worse.
SCFA - produced when good gut bacteria ferment fiber. They cause production of serotonin and brain makes “happy” mood hormones.
The Simple Foundations Still Matter
Basics still support motility:
Hydration Movement -activity stimulates intestinal contractions Polyphenol-rich foods Reducing ultra-processed foods and - deplete B1 B1 is high in pork, beef and fish
TIPS
If hard stool → magnesium citrate or oxide - 200 - 400 mg/day If stress, or motility → magnesium glycinate ~300 -400 mg/day.
References: 1. Camilleri M. Gastrointestinal complications of diabetes. 2007, New England Journal of Medicine 2. Bharucha AE, et al. American Gastroenterological Association technical review on constipation. 2013, Gastroenterology 3. Mori H et al. Magnesium oxide in constipation. 2021, Nutrients 4. DiNicolantonio JJ et al. Subclinical magnesium deficiency: a principal driver of cardiovascular disease and a public health crisis. 2018, Open Heart 5. Lonsdale D. A review of the biochemistry, metabolism and clinical benefits of thiamin(e). 2006, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 6. Makki K et al. The impact of dietary fiber on gut microbiota in host health and disease. 2018, Cel
Why Reflux Keeps Coming Back
23 févr. 2026
00:18:45
Reflux that keeps coming back is usually not just an acid problem — it’s a pressure and mechanics problem.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why getting "relief" from an antacid is not addressing the core of the problem. In fact, it's perpetuating it.
Acid blockers (PPIs and H2 blockers) reduce stomach acid and can decrease the burning sensation. That can be appropriate short-term, especially with esophagitis. But these medications do not address the root cause of reflux - it isn't too much acid.
It's actually a pressure problem. When pressure within your abdomen increases, stomach emptying slows, or a hiatal hernia develops, stomach contents can move upward regardless of acid level. Lowering acid may reduce symptoms, but it does not correct the mechanical dysfunction being caused by the pressure.
Why stomach acid matters. Why do you need acid in your stomach?
• Protein digestion begins in the stomach • It's a detergent/disinfectant that kills bad organisms. • Absorption of minerals only occurs due to the presence of acid: e.g. calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc • Release and absorption of vitamin B12 and folate
Potential risks associated with long-term acid suppression
Long-term PPI use has been associated in the literature with:
• Increased risk of nutrient deficiencies (B12, magnesium, iron) • Higher rates of C. difficile infection - a bacterial infection that can be life-threatening • Altered gut microbiome - more bad bacteria present in the gut than good bacteria leading to inflammation, mood disorders, and more. • Increased fracture risk - osteoporosis due to lack of calcium absorption • Kidney injury (acute and chronic) • Increased risk of respiratory infections, e.g. pneumonia
These associations do not mean every patient will experience harm, but they highlight that acid suppression can have negative health impacts across many organs and systems.
Addressing the root contributors Long-term improvement often requires evaluating:
• Intra-abdominal pressure (belly fat, chronic straining due to constipation) • Diaphragm function and breathing mechanics • Hiatal hernia alignment • Delayed stomach emptying • Dysbiosis or SIBO • Food triggers and inflammatory load
The goal should not simply be eliminating the burn. The goal is restoring function and integrity.
References 1. Lam JR, et al. Proton pump inhibitor and histamine-2 receptor antagonist use and vitamin B12 deficiency. JAMA. 2013 2.Hess MW, et al. Systematic review: hypomagnesaemia induced by PPIs. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2012. 3. Yang YX, et al. Long-term PPI therapy and risk of hip fracture. JAMA. 2006. 4. Xie Y, et al. Long-term kidney outcomes among PPI users without intervening acute kidney injury. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2017 5. Janarthanan S, et al. Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea and PPI therapy: meta-analysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2012 6. Kahrilas PJ, et al. Approaches to the diagnosis and grading of hiatal hernia. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2008.
#acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify t
Antibiotics, Anxiety and Your Gut
17 févr. 2026
00:19:23
Did you know a single course of antibiotics is linked to a 25% higher risk of anxiety and depression? Because antibiotics don’t just target the infection, the bad bacteria — they can disrupt the good gut bacteria that help regulate your brain.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why there's an increased risk of anxiety and depression after taking antibiotics.
Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria alike. Fewer beneficial bacteria means less control over inflammation.
Inflammation can disrupt serotonin, dopamine, and the circuits that determine whether your brain feels calm or anxious.
If you already deal with reflux, bloating, or constipation — common in hiatal hernia — the impact can be bigger and recovery slower.
The increased risk shows up mainly in the months after treatment and can persist for up to about a year or longer. Many species rebound in weeks to a few months. Some do not fully return, especially after repeated exposure of antibiotics.
Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced as a result of an abundance and variety of good bacteria. They strengthen the gut barrier - preventing leaky gut. With less leak, fewer inflammatory signals reach circulation resulting in less stimulation of brain immune cells.
Too much activation of brain immune cells is associated with anxiety, depression, cognitive changes, and neurodegeneration.
How does Hiatal Hernia fit in? Many people with hiatal hernia already have motility issues and microbial imbalance. That environment makes infections more likely. More infections often mean more antibiotics. And each round can deepen the imbalance. Hiatal hernia commonly overlaps with: impaired gastric emptying altered pressure gradients reflux of stomach and small intestinal contents changes in motility frequent acid suppression.
All of those influence which organisms survive and where they grow. When movement and clearance are off, microbes accumulate in places they shouldn’t.
TIPS Fermented foods - think of them as reseeding the garden after the antibiotic has wiped out the pretty flowers, not just the bad weeds. Variety is key with fiber - gradual increase. Insoluble fiber - feeds the good bacteria and inc SCFA production. E.g. nuts, seeds, legumes, dark green leafies, psyllium, chia, flax, raspberries. Sleep - repair time Movement - Regular moderate activity is linked with: greater diversity, better SCFA production, improved motility. Hydration supports stool transit, motility and mucosal health Stress regulation: A stressed brain sends stressed signals to the gut. Probiotics: They can help in certain situations, but they are not magic. After antibiotics, recovery isn’t about replacing one bug. It’s about rebuilding an environment where healthy microbes can grow again
References: 1. Lurie I, et al. Antibiotic exposure and the risk for depression, anxiety, or psychosis. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2015. 2. Palleja A, et al. Recovery of gut microbiota of healthy adults following antibiotic exposure. Nature Microbiology, 2018. 3. Koh A, et al. From dietary fiber to host physiology: short-chain fatty acids as key bacterial metabolites. Cell, 2016. 4. Erny D, et al. Host microbiota constantly control maturation and function of microglia in the CNS. Nature Neuroscience, 2015. 5. Quigley EMM. Microbiota–gut–brain axis and neurogastroenterology. Gastroenterology, 2017. 6. Imhann F, et al. Proton pump inhibitors affect the gut microbiome. Gut, 2016. 7. Miller AH & Raison CL. The role of inflammation in depression. Nature Reviews Immunology, 2016.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a
The Reflux Medication Trap
10 févr. 2026
00:19:25
Do you take antacids like PPIs? The odds are it’s not right for you. Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why antacids such as PPIs may be causing your symptoms to worsen and perpetuate rather than being resolved.
A global systematic review found that about 60% of PPI prescriptions were inappropriate or lacking a valid indication in clinical practice.
If you’re thinking - No - I really do have acid reflux, hang in there with me for a few minutes.
Fact: It’s one of the most prescribed drugs worldwide Fact: It has many dangerous side effects Like what: Cause infections, worsen gut health (perpetuates the problem), heart disease, bone loss and dementia to name a few
Why would your doctor ignore those risks?
Drs do want to help - they want their patients to “feel” better. In conventional medicine it’s all about controlling symptoms which is much easier than correcting why they started. What’s easier? Swallowing a pill or doing lifestyle and diet changes? The answer is obvious - but it the EASY answer the better one or the safe one?
For patients it seems simple: I have “burn”, the drug stops it. That’s all they want to know. It’s easier to continue a prescription then admit the treatment failed - the reflux came back when the medication is stopped.
It’s unfair that they’re not told what’s going to happen long term: Nut’l deficiencies Infections Worsening gut health that will perpetuate the need for antacids and then more drugs - e.g. heart meds, anxiety meds, breathing meds, pain meds Weak bones Risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia Therapeutic inertia - It means treatment continues because it is easier and safer than changing direction, even if it’s not solving the underlying issue. This supports the point that long-term continuation often happens by default or habit, without re-checking whether it’s still truly indicated.
Almost every reflux patient I meet was told they might need this medication forever. -The real causes: impaired gastric emptying intra-abdominal pressure dysbiosis food triggers vagal or diaphragmatic dysfunction constipation obesity Note about rebound acid secretion
-Tips No gluten, sugar or seed oils for 3 weeks Practice diaphragmatic breathing 3x/day - research shos 2 out of 3 decreased need and some stopped No tight clothes Don’t overeat - chew well Don’t eat and lie down Don’t eat late
References 1. Dutta AK, Sharma V, Jain A, et al. (2024). Inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors in clinical practice globally: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gut. 2. Lüthold RV, et al. (2023). Inappropriate proton-pump inhibitor prescribing in primary care (study reporting high rates of potentially inappropriate long-term PPI use, including “no indication” and “too high dose”). Swiss Medical Weekly. 3. Lazarus B, et al. (2016). Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease. JAMA Internal Medicine. 4. Finke M, et al. (2025). Proton pump inhibitors and the risk of Clostridioides difficile infection: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Journal of Infection 5. Liu J, et al. (2019). Proton pump inhibitors therapy and risk of bone diseases: An update meta-analysis. Life Sciences. 6. Choudhury A, et al. (2023). Vitamin B12 deficiency and use of proton pump inhibitors: a systematic review. Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology.
➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400
3 Reasons Hiatal Hernia Persists
28 janv. 2026
00:12:58
Have you rushed to the ER convinced you were having a heart attack? You had heart palpitations, shortness of breath and anxiety out the roof? You also suffer with acid reflux, bloat, gas, and/or constipation.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
Every test comes back normal, but your heart still races, the shortness of breath impacts your day to day life and your gut is a mess.
Your cardiologist assures you there's nothing wrong, yet you feel "off" and keep suffering.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains what the 3 missing "pieces" of Hiatal Hernia Syndrome are and why they need to be evaluated in order to achieve successful relief.
We utilize a patient-tailored approach - Personalized medicine, because there isn't a "one size fits all" solution. Diet, posture, breathing - why “one size doesn’t fit all”
Symptoms influenced by: diet, digestion efficiency, motility within the gut, microbiome health, diaphragmatic breathing, and vagal nerve tone
1. DIET Recent work highlights that diet composition—not just acid suppression—matters for reflux and hiatal hernia symptom burden. Interventions focusing on reduced overall sugar intake, increased fiber, and mindful eating patterns SMOKING & WEIGHT Risk factor data indicate abdominal pressure, physical workload, smoking, and central adiposity are risk factors.
2. MOTILITY & MICROBIOME Current GERD/hiatal hernia literature recognizes the influence of gut motility and possibly microbiome interactions on reflux patterns. PPIs, given for reflux, can make it worse - can’t be the only treatment. You can’t feel the reflux but it’s still there. It doesn’t correct motility or pressure issues
3. STRESS Stress reduction and vagal nerve influence
TIPS Eat smaller meals Stop eating 3–4 hours before bed Avoid tight clothing Chew thoroughly Avoid large mixed meals late at night Pay attention to early fullness, bloating, or nausea Walk after meals Stay upright for at least 20–30 minutes after eating. Belly breathing - before meals and practiced during the day Diaphragm part of anti-reflux barrier so needs to be exercised Address constipation and gas - increases pressure
References: Martinucci I et al., “Esophageal motility abnormalities in gastroesophageal reflux disease,” 2014, World Journal of Gastroenterology
Voulgaris T et al., “Is there a direct relationship between hiatal hernia size and reflux events,” 2023, Annals of Gastroenterology
Bucan JI et al., “Updates in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Management,” 2025, Medicines (MDPI)
Lin S et al., “Esophageal Motor Dysfunctions in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease,” 2019, Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility
Freedberg DE et al., “The impact of proton pump inhibitors on the human gastrointestinal microbiome,” 2014, Gut
Tian L et al., “Proton pump inhibitors may enhance the risk of digestive complications,” 2023, Frontiers in Pharmacology
Remes-Troche JM, “PPIs Have It: Does Tegoprazan Affect Gastric Emptying and Produce Dyspeptic Symptoms?,” 2025, Digestive Diseases and Sciences
Andrews WG et al., “The relationship of hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux,” 2021, Annals of the American Thoracic Society
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed ar
Why Fasting Backfires for Women
26 janv. 2026
00:06:01
What health problems are you trying to solve? Fatigue? Weight gain? Poor sleep? Mood swings? Brain fog? Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why fasting results are different between men and women and what is the optimal approach for women.
Time restricted eating or fasting is a physiological stressor - not a bad one, but still a stressor and women react differently to it than men. Women are not “small men” and our metabolism and hormones are different- therefore the “dose” of fasting matters.
A fasting window of 12 to 14 hours allows for adequate protein consumption, better quality sleep, and lowers stress load.
Long fasting windows make it harder to hit protein targets - this matters for satiety (stops cravings) and lean muscle mass retention.
Protein maintains: Muscle and bone Hormones and enzymes Neurotransmitters - brain chemicals Immune system strength
If protein intake drops the body breaks down muscle. Lower muscle = more fat, and slower metabolism.
Men exhibit more predictable improvements like weight loss and insulin sensitivity while women, who mobilize fuel differently, commonly show weight gain, loss of muscle, insulin resistance, adverse hormone and stress responses.
Initially you may not notice negative effects - your fatty acids are elevated meaning you're breaking down stored fat - you lose weight, feel more energy and that convinces you to continue longer fasts.
It’s what happens long-term that is concerning - long-term elevation of fatty acids leads to: Reduced glucose uptake into muscle and liver, leading to Insulin resistance - type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver, Greater difficulty losing fat Increased visceral fat/belly weight Muscle breakdown so you lose lean muscle Sleep disruption Brain effects: Fatigue Lowered stress tolerance Brain fog
Particularly important if you are in the following categories: Fertile Irregular or missed periods PMS or heavy periods Feel “wired” but tired High training volume Trouble sleeping
Menopause/Perimenopause Trouble maintaining muscle Fat gain despite eating less Poor sleep Brain fog or stress Cold intolerance of thyroid symptoms Fatigue and need caffeine
Tips Fast while you’re sleeping… and a bit more before and after = 12 to 14 hours. Prioritize protein - aim for 1 gram of protein per lean pound of body weight. Book end protein at the beginning and end of the day with a lighter dose mid-day. Aim for 25 grams of fiber daily from whole food - fruit, veggie, nuts, seeds, beans. Healthy fats come along with much of the foods you’re eating
References: Soeters MR et al. Gender-related differences in the metabolic response to fasting 2007 — Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Bene-Alhasan Y et al. Determinants of fasting non-esterified fatty acids 2023 — Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology
Takeuchi M et al. Higher fasting and postprandial free fatty acid levels are associated with muscle insulin resistance in young women 2018 — Journal of Clinical Medicine Research
Pankow JS et al. Fasting plasma free fatty acids and the risk of type 2 diabetes 2004 — Diabetes Care
Abraham SB et al. Cortisol, obesity and the metabolic syndrome 2013 — Endocrine Reviews
Kim BH et al. Effects of intermittent fasting on circulating hormone levels and circadian rhythms 2021 — Endocrinology and Metabolism
Uhart M et al. Gender differences in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis reactivity 2006 — Psychoneuroendocrinology
#fasting #weightloss #musclelossprevention #rootcausemedicine Disclaimer: The information provide
5 Sleep Hacks That Burn Fat
13 janv. 2026
00:19:58
Sleep isn’t one thing. It’s four. Quantity. Quality. Regularity. Timing. Think of them like the legs of a chair. Lose one, and your health collapses.
In the podcast, Dr Vikki Petersen explains how to reset sleep, its connection to weight, fat loss, and how to avoid dying prematurely.
Quantity - Shorter sleep = a shorter life. Predicts all cause mortality. Recommended is 7 to 9 hours. 7 is minimum to survive - not what you need to thrive.
Quality - Important for mental health. AKA sleep efficiency-want to keep it above 85%. Desired is 1 to 2 long bouts of sleep vs fragmented sleep due to awakenings.
Regularity - decreases risk of all-cause mortality by 49%, risk of cancer by 39%, risk of heart disease by 57%. Regularity refers to wake & sleep time. Best to keep it within 15 minutes on either side Worst was a variation of 90 to 120 minutes. You need both, but regularity beat out quantity in reducing all cause mortality.
Timing (aligning with your natural body clock, or chronotype), using light cues (morning sun, dim evening light) to set it right. E.g. morning lark, night owl - but most people fall in the middle - bears.
Sleep Killers Artificial light - Artificial light confuses the brain -“junk” light. Think candles - a little essential oils added Eliminate Alcohol Caffeine Marijuana Eating before bed - wait 3 hours
TIP to help you fall asleep For 7 days set alarm 1 hour before bedtime. Turn off most of the lights, candle light is fine, cool room to 68 degrees F. Do you feel more sleepy? Go back to your regular routine & note difference.
Set an alarm to wake up 8 to 9 hours after your regular bedtime. As your sleep quality improves you won’t need an alarm.
Don’t skimp on that last hour of sleep - impacts mood, learning and mental performance - very restorative
TIP to help you get back to sleep - described in video 3 options: Box breathing Body scan Mental walk
Weight and Sleep How you sleep dictates what you eat and how you burn calories Underslept = Cravings Leptin and ghrelin go in opposite directions when underslept-increases your hunger drive 40%.
Burning calories More likely to store calories as fat when underslept vs storing them as glycogen in muscles. Dieters: lost the same weight but poor sleepers lost 70% of weight from lean muscle while keeping the fat.
Fasting Longer fasts your body makes more Orexin - hormone promotes wakefulness & appetite. May see your sleep scores drop during longer fasts
Melatonin - do you need it? Helpful to prevent jet lag or if you’re someone who doesn’t get sleepy until 3 to 4 am. It doesn’t make you sleep or generate sleep - it starts the sleep cycle.
Doesn’t improve the speed you fall asleep or the efficiency in any meaningful way.
Safe dose is 0.1 to 3 mg. More not better because you can confuse your morning brain - melatonin should be zero in the morning - taking too much will cause you to have levels of it for the first 3 to 4 hours and you’ll be groggy and needing caffeine.
Note: it’s otherwise safe and an anti-oxidant, but there’s been erroneous data re; amounts that are too high. Don’t give it to children - melatonin is a hormone that influences puberty and some studies indicate that it can perhaps stunt reproductive development. Short-term use seems safe, but long term is concerning.
Magnesium - most doesn’t cross blood brain barrier, except L-threonate. But just being insufficient makes a difference - 50% of us are. Magnesium relaxes muscles and vagus nerve is activated with relaxation.
References: 1.Windred D, et al. (2024) Sleep regularity is a stronger predictor of mortality risk than sleep duration. Sleep 2.Cribb L, et al. (2023) Sleep regularity and mortality... eLife 3.Miao Y, et al. (
Why Treating Acid Reflux Fails
12 janv. 2026
00:19:56
If you suffer with acid reflux you are in good company. But acid reflux doesn't respond well to lowering acid levels. The proof?
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why "blaming" the acid in your stomach is the wrong approach. Millions continue to suffer despite taking a standard acid reducing medication like PPIs.
Up to 40% of GERD patients report dissatisfaction and have incomplete or no response to a standard PPI dose. Up to 55% continue to have persistent symptoms despite “optimal therapy”.
What’s going on: Your stomach is supposed to contain acid. It kills bad organisms, begins protein digestion, and absorbs minerals and B12. Reflux is not due to too much acid -real problem is acid in the wrong location - your esophagus.
Why? The anti-reflux barrier fails.
Why? 1.Digestion slows, stomach remains full, food ferments, gas builds and pressure rises, pushing stomach upward. 2.The diaphragm loses its coordinated support of the LES, becomes flattened, and less able to prevent reflux. 3.Vagus dysfunction - leads to fight or flight resulting in shallow breathing, diaphragmatic excursion decreases, decreased tone of LES, slowed gastric emptying, 4.Hiatal hernia - stomach elevates and compromises anti-reflux barrier 5. H pylori -bacterial infection. More susceptible if older or taking PPI. Symptoms of H. pyrlori are often mistaken for reflux: Stomach burning or gnawing pain, nausea, early fullness, worse on an empty stomach. H. pylori infection can cause anti-reflux barrier to fail
H. pylori is leading cause of atrophic gastritis globally. Stomach lining thins, loses gastric gland cells, leads to low acid, B12 deficiency and risk of stomach cancer.
Gastric gland cells produce HCl, enzymes, protective mucus to prevent the stomach from digesting itself.
Strains: CagA - most dangerous, higher risk of ulcer, cancer VacA - all H pylori carry the gene - s1 more toxic, s2 less toxic The strain matters as much as the infection.
If reflux isn’t just acid problem, what do you do? 1.stop assuming acid is the enemy. Goal is restore normal stomach function. 2. support digestion so stomach can empty properly. e.g. real food, adequate protein, hydration 3. reduce pressure. e.g. handle constipation, bloating, tight clothing, large late meals 4. restore coordination between diaphragm and esophageal sphincter. e.g. nasal breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, posture awareness, daily movement 5. support vagal tone. e.g. handle chronic stress, shallow breathing, poor sleep, fight or flight 6.identify upstream disruptors. e.g. H. pylori, low stomach acid, hiatal hernia, testing microbiome, ruling out mold, viruses, heavy metals, and food sensitivities. Reflux improves when the body as a coordinated system works together again-not when acid is simply suppressed.
References: 1.El-Serag HB, et al. Update on the epidemiology of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.. Gut, 2014. 2.Pandolfino JE, et al. Mechanical properties of the lower esophageal sphincter and crural diaphragm. Gastroenterology, 2007. 3.Sifrim D, et al. Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations and reflux. American Journal of Medicine, 2001. 4.Farmer AD, et al. The role of the vagus nerve...Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2014. 5.Martinucci I, et al. Esophageal impedance-pH monitoring... Neurogastro & Motility, 2018. 6.Malfertheiner P, et al. Helicobacter pylori infection. Nature Rev Dis Primers, 2017. 7.Cover TL, et al, H pylori VacA, ...Nat Rev Micro, 2005. 8.Hatakeyama M. H pylori CagA...Nat Rev Cancer, 2004.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is
Hiatal Hernia Surgery: The Hidden Risks
22 déc. 2025
00:16:23
Do you have chronic acid reflux or hiatal hernia symptoms that bother you? Are you considering surgery?
Dr Vikki Petersen explains why you may want to consider all your options before jumping into surgery that is not a medical emergency.
Fundoplication surgery reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter by wrapping the upper pat of the stomach around the lower esophagus. The surgery reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) by wrapping the upper part of the stomach (the fundus) around the lower esophagus. This:
What the surgery aims to accomplish: Prevents stomach acid from refluxing upward Improves LES pressure Reduces regurgitation and heartburn
Who is a good candidate? Persistent GERD, Hiatal Hernia, esophagitis, regurgitation, want to avoid long-term PPIs
Stated Benefits Reduction of reflux, eliminate need for PPI, long-lasting symptom relief - Note: it states "symptom reflief" not cure.
Risks and side effects Trouble swallowing Gas/bloat syndrome - can’t belch or vomit Increased gas Wrap loosening or slipping over time Damage to vagus nerve Dumping syndrome
Fundoplication does not address the root cause contributors such as: Impaired gastric emptying Low stomach acid Dysbiosis or SIBO Increased intra-abdominal pressure Poor diaphragmatic function
Why it Fails - wrap loosens - Why? Ongoing increased intra-abdominal pressure or obesity. The cause of the increased pressure is the "contributors" just mentioned above.
“Failure” statistics: ~30% develop recurrent symptoms over time At 10 years, 40% have had symptoms return and require medication. Failure rates increase with time — many studies show good short-term outcomes but gradual decline over years. Revisions surgeries fail at a rate of 40%
Bottom line: Short-term success: high Long-term durability: moderate Many failures are driven by ongoing pressure and motility issues, not acid alone.
References: 1.Spechler SJ, et al. Medical or surgical management of GERD JAMA – 2019 2.Gyawali CP, et al. Modern diagnosis of GERD and surgical candidacy. American Journal of Gastroenterology – 2018 3.Broeders JA, et al. Ten-year outcome of laparoscopic fundoplication. British Journal of Surgery – 2013 4.Oelschlager BK, et al. Symptom recurrence after fundoplication Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery – 2011 5.Herregods TVK, et al. Esophageal motility disorders and reflux surgery outcomes. Neurogastroenterology & Motility – 2015
Disclaimer: The information provided in this is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause. ➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400
About this channel: Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CFMP, is founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. Our multidisciplinary team of licensed APRNs and clinicians provides functional medicine care focusing on gut, hormone, and metabolic health. These are reviewed by licensed
How to Stop Bloating, FAST!
13 déc. 2025
00:14:12
Bloating and gas are common symptoms with up to 30% of the population suffering enough to complain to their doctors.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
Dr Vikki Petersen explains what the 5 most common causes are and what you can do to determine which may be bothering you and some steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort.
1. Low stomach acid - the common symptoms are fatigue, heartburn, feeling full, bad brath, undigested food in stool, diarrhea/constipation. Home test: 1/4 tsp baking soda in 4-6 oz cold water first thing in the morning before any food or drink. Time when you burp. Normal is within 2-3 minutes. If no burp at 5 minutes it may indicate low stomach acid. You can trial some betaine hydrochloric acid but check with your doctor first.
2. Poor gallbladder health - bile breaks down fats and absorbs fat soluble vitamins. Bile also works with the pancreatic enzymes which we are about to discuss. Symptoms include - bloat after a fatty meal, nausea, upper right quadrant (just below your ribs on the right) discomfort that can radiate around to your shoulder blade, nausea and feeling full after a fatty meal. You can try adding bitters such as ginger, arugula, milk thistle to see if it improves symptoms. check with you doctor first however.
3. SIBO - small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Symptoms include cramping, gas, pain, diarrhea and or constipation. Causes are PPI meds, antibiotics, low stomach acid, slowed motility Test - your doctor can order a Breath Test. You can trial oregano, garlic, fasting and a carnivore diet for 2 weeks - consult with your doctor first.
4. Poor pancreatic function - the pancreas makes enzymes to digest every type of food: fat, carbohydrate and protein. Symptoms include bloat, greasy, smelly stool, nausea, vomiting, bloat and diabetes symptoms. You can trial pancreatic enzymes with your doctor's approval.
5. Food sensitivities - common foods can cause a variety of symptoms including bloating. Trial a modified elimination diet and a planned reintroduction after 3 weeks. This is the gold standard for food sensitivity testing.
References: Vavallo M et al. Autoimmune gastritis and hypochlorhydria: Known concepts from a new perspective. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2024.
Filardo S et al. The potential role of hypochlorhydria in the development of duodenal dysbiosis. Microorganisms. 2022.
Whitcomb DC et al. AGA Clinical Practice Update on the epidemiology, evaluation, and management of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Gastroenterology. 2023.
Jung SW et al. Epigastric symptoms of gallbladder dyskinesia mistaken for functional dyspepsia. Korean Journal of Gastroenterology. 2017.
Feng X et al. Prevalence and predictors of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in inflammatory bowel disease: a meta-analysis. Frontiers in Medicine. 2025.
Saadati S et al. Effects of a gluten challenge in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized clinical trial. Scientific Reports. 2022.
Pasta A, et al. Food Intolerances, Food Allergies and IBS: Lights and Shadows, Nutrients 2024.
#bloating #guthealth #rootcausemedicine
Disclaimer: The information provided in this is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to
The Big Hormone Lie Revealed!
26 nov. 2025
00:12:30
This video is for every woman and every man who loves a woman.
What if: You could reduce your risk of heart disease and death by up to 50%. You could decrease your risk of colon cancer by up to 56%. You could reduce your risk of diabetes by up to 30%? You could reduce your Alzheimer’s risk by 35%? What if you could reduce your fracture risk by 50 to 60%? And, what if you could add a healthy 10 years to your life expectancy?
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why there has been fear and confusion regarding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for the past 23 years.
What's the solution? Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). When I said that, what did you think of? Did you think: “Wait, isn’t there a risk of breast cancer and stroke with HRT?
It’s time to set the record straight. 23 years ago a $1 billion study (WHI) was conducted on HRT and stopped early due to supposed increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots and cardiovascular disease.
A press conference occurred before the study results were released. The media frenzy stated that HRT caused breast cancer, leading to panic. By the time the actual study results came out and smart doctors and scientists saw the results, the fact that the study showed no statistical significance was ignored.
NO study has even shown that HRT increases the risk of breast cancer mortality. In fact, taking estrogen alone shows a 24% decreased risk in breast cancer.
The FDA has recently set the record straight and corrected this mistake by revealing the exact science and removing the black box warnings that created fear in so many.
The truth is that menopause shortens lives because of the loss of estrogen. There is no organ in the human body that does NOT have estrogen receptor sites.
Estrogen factually does the following: It protects your heart, protects your bones, acts as a protective shield for your brain, lowers risk of mental decline, memory loss and Alzheimer’s. It reduces all cause mortality, thus extending women’s lives by a decade. It reduces your risk of diabetes. It is factually one of the most effective longevity interventions for women.
Is there a risk of taking HRT if you’re 10 yrs past menopause? Not necessarily. You may not be eligible especially if you have cardiac risk. But for ALL women, regardless of your age, or cancer history, you ARE eligible for vaginal estrogen therapy.
With loss of estrogen, urinary tract infections increase, vaginal dryness and painful sex. A UTI in an older woman can be life threatening due to sepsis.
Unlike UTIs in younger women where painful urination is the key symptom, in older women the symptoms of confusion, fatigue or agitation can be the only signs - leading to confusion with onset of dementia.
80 to 90% of elderly women have bacteria in their urine. Vaginal estrogen prevents this - it can be started at any age and should be taken for life.
Many doctors are afraid to recommend hormones because if they were educated during the past two decades they received no education on menopause.
➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/locations/telemedicine/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400
#womenshealth #hormones #rootcausemedicine References: Marty Makary MD, et al. Updated Labeling for Menopausal Hormone Therapy. JAMA, 2025;
Howard N. Hodis, eta al. HRT And Reduction of All‑Cause Mortality and CVD . menopauselearning.com. The Cancer Journal June 2022
Ferrante KL, et al. Vaginal Estrogen for the Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection in Postmenopausal Women. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg. 2021
Tan-Kim J, et al. Efficacy of vaginal estroge
4 DANGERS of Antacids
24 nov. 2025
00:05:35
Are you taking a PPI for reflux? Medications like Omeprazole, Nexium or Prilosec can help symptoms, but long-term use comes with risks.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains the 4 major side effects associated with long-term use of PPI medications.
Heart disease - a large study of 2 million people found that PPI use was associated with ischemia, heart disease and stroke. The increased risk was 12 to 54% with a dos-response relationship. Why does this occur?
Nitric oxide production is inhibited with PPIs. Nitric oxide keeps your vessels dilated, reduces inflammation and prevents clots from forming.
Bone health - PPIs decrease mineral absorption and if you've been on a PPI for more than 2 years and you're under the age of 60, your risk of a bone fracture increases 68%.
Infections occur because acid in your stomach is a pathogen barrier. Without acid, 'bad guys' happily multiply. risk of pneumonia increases 50% risk of a bacterial infection (C. diff) increases 73% and SIBO infections see a 100% increase risk based on a 2025 study.
Kidney health suffers as well. PPIs increase your risk of chronic kidney disease and even kidney failure 20 - 50%.
There are also studies linking dementia and liver disease to PPI use. PPIs prevent absorption of vitamin B12 which prevents cognitive decine, Alzheimer's dementia and stroke risk.
There is a way to diminish your need for PPIs by getting to the root cause of why the pressure exists on your stomach, forcing acid up your esophagus.
If you need help, we're here for you.
References: Khurmatullina A.R., et al. “The Duration of Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy and the Risk of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2025;14(13):4702. DOI:10.3390/jcm14134702.
Trifan A, Hammani K, et al. “Proton Pump Inhibitors Therapy and Risk of Clostridium difficile Infection.” Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2017; (meta-analysis) DOI:10.29085200.
Su T., et al. “Meta-analysis: Proton Pump Inhibitors Moderately Increase the Risk of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.” Journal of Gastroenterology. 2018;53:27-36.
Xia B, et al. “Individualized prevention of proton pump inhibitor related adverse events: an evaluation of disease burden and risk stratification.” Nature Communications. 2024;15:3591. DOI:10.1038/s41467-024-48007-8.
Lam JR et al. Proton Pump Inhibitor and Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist Use and Vitamin B12 Deficiency. JAMA. 2013.
Vogiatzoglou A et al. Vitamin B12 status and rate of brain volume loss in elderly. Neurology. 2008. Morris MC et al. Nutrient Intake and Cognitive Decline. Neurology. 2005.
Smith AD et al. Homocysteine and dementia: an international consensus statement. J Alzheimers Dis. 2018.
O'Leary F., Samman S. Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients. 2010;2(3):299–316.
#acidreflux #guthealth #rootcausemedicine
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause. ➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/locations/telemedicine/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400
About this channel: Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CFMP, is founder of Root Cause
#1 Breathing Mistake Causing Reflux
18 nov. 2025
00:12:03
If you’re breathing through your mouth, you may be sabotaging your diaphragm, your posture, and your acid-reflux/hiatal hernia barrier.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains what the hidden link is between mouth-breathing, diaphragm dysfunction, intra-abdominal pressure spikes, posture and reflux/hiatal hernia — plus how to fix the root cause.
Hiatal hernia is very common (≈20% general population, it increases with age). Hiatal hernia definition: 95% are sliding, and most are small
The esophagus passes through the hiatus (opening) in the diaphragm; the crural diaphragm acts as an external “sling” around esophagus - it acts as a valve, preventing reflux and hernia. When the GEJ (gastro-esophageal junction) rises above the diaphragm, two things happen: the hiatal opening widens and weakens → reflux risk increases.
The diaphragm plays an important role in the antireflux barrier (not just LES but diaphragmatic component). Nasal breathing engages diaphragm fully (belly movement, lower ribs) vs mouth breathing which often shifting you to shallow chest/neck breathing. This reduces diaphragmatic excursion (movement) and tone over time; diaphragm becomes less efficient and more flattened.
Posture: mouth breathing often pulls head/neck forward (forward head posture), which changes rib cage mechanics, lengthens accessory muscles, and compromises phrenic nerve and vagus nerve -diaphragm.
Pressure dynamics: with impaired diaphragm and poor posture, the intra-abdominal pressure regulation becomes dysfunctional → more pressure spikes when coughing, lifting, straining. Each cough, each lift, each straining episode creates an intra-abdominal pressure spike; a competent diaphragm/crural diaphragm and correct posture help buffer that.
If you're mouth-breathing, diaphragm is weak → the hiatus sees more stress → increased risk of the stomach bulging up (hiatal hernia) and reflux.
Research (study below): Diaphragmatic breathing increased LES pressure and reduced post-meal reflux events.
Mouth breathing often during sleep (snoring) means alternating cycles of airway collapse, negative intrathoracic pressure swings (rapid or exaggerated drops in pressure inside the chest – occur when someone is breathing forcefully, mouth breathing or struggling to breathe) → more reflux risk.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist. Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical Clinic can help you identify the root cause. ➡ Learn more or book a co
Fastest Way to Lose Menopausal Belly Fat
12 nov. 2025
00:15:46
Are you sick of belly fat that won't move? Frustrated with loss of muscle tone and stsrength? Worried about memory loss of dementia?
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why women develop belly fat, lose muscle strength and develop dementia. If you're 35 to 65+ years old, this video is for you.
The bad news is that women start to lose estrogen in perimenopause, early 40s typically. It really plummets at menopause but if you're younger and have suffered with irregular periods or PCOS, you've already been suffering with imbalanced estrogen.
Estrogen is anti-inflammatory and protects you against: belly fat/ visceral fat muscle and bone loss type 2 diabetes heart disease fatty liver dementia.
Protecting you against the adverse effects of aging, called geroprotective, are just two organs, your muscles and ovaries. The latter go away with menopause so you are left with needing very healthy, strong muscle to combat this.
High intensity exercise creates changes in muscle which drives glucose into your muscles while relasing a hormone that prevents storage of visceral fat.
High intensity exercise is defined as reaching greater than 80% of your maximum heart rate. Calculate max HR by taking 220 minus your age. You want to engage in this 20% of the time or 2x/week. At a high intensity you'll find it difficult to speak. Exercises like HIIT, heavy weights and circuit training fall into this category.
Benefits are many: 1. prevents visceral fat storage / belly fat 2. makes muscles stronger 3. makes anti-inflammatory chemicals (cytokines) which lower disease risk 4. increases neuroplasticity of the brain, produces more brain cells and makes more lactate - protecting against dementia 5. benefits sleep quality 6. balances mood
80% of the time you want to engage in low intensity exercise - defined as 50 to 70% of your max heart rate. So that's 5x/wk. Examples would be an incline walk, slow run, steady cycle and weight lifting.
Avoid moderate intensity exercise. This zone doesn't create a storng enough stress and post-exercise response the way high intensity does. Instead, it elevates inflammation and the stress hormone corisol.
A recommendation is to get your bone density tested early. You want to catch bone loss early - get tested in your 40s. The LiftMor study cited below found that lifting heavy weights in older women with osteoporosis was safe and built back bone. Don't be afraid of this. It's never too late to turn this around.
#bellyfat #menopause #womenshealth #rootcausemedicine References: Kodete, C. S. et al. (2024). “Hormonal Influences on Skeletal Muscle Function in …” MDPI J 3(3):24.
Also: Zhang, C. et al. (2024). “Research progress on the correlation between estrogen …” Frontiers in Endocrinology.
Steiner, B. M. (2022). “The Regulation of Adipose Tissue Health by Estrogens.” Frontiers in Endocrinology.
Marsh, M. L. (2023). “Adipocyte Metabolism and Health after the Menopause.” PMC.
García-Suárez, P. C. (2020). “Acute Systemic Response Of BDNF, Lactate and Cortisol to …” PMC.
Kraemer, R. R. (2023). “The effects of peripheral hormone responses to exercise …” Frontiers in Endocrinology.
Ward, L. J. et al. (2020). “Resistance training decreases plasma levels of adipokines …” Scientific Reports.
Tan, L. (2025). “Can strength training modulate inflammatory markers in postmenopausal women with overweight and obesity?” Complement Ther Med
Watson S.L., et al. (2018). The LIFTMOR Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. 33(2):211-220. doi:10.1002/jbmr.3284.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a sub
5 ROOT Causes of IBS
10 nov. 2025
00:19:09
You've been diagnosed with IBS. You've tried changing your diet, reducing stress, perhaps you've tried various drugs. But you continue to suffer with bloating, pain or unpredictable bathroom trips.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
It's ruining your life. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains 5 clear causes of IBS that when addressed, allow healing to occur.
The truth is: IBS isn't a real diagnosis; it's a description of symptoms. What's missing is the root causes hiding underneath your symptoms.
Many people just continue to put up with the symptoms or try medications which, by research, have satisfaction rating of only 10%. There's much more that can be done.
So what's really going on? The 5 Reasons You're Really Suffering: 1. SIBO and gut dysbiosis - bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine leads to gas, bloat, pain and motility issues. Bacterial overgrowth, known as dysbiosis, in your colon creates the same symptoms. The causes are hiatal hernia, use of PPI drugs, antibiotics, food sensitivities, and vagus nerve dysfunction, which slows motility.
2. Inflammatory changes post-infection - things like food poisoning or traveler's diarrhea begins a cascade of damage to the intestinal lining that triggers inflammation, increases intestinal permeability (leaky gut) sensitizes the gut's nervous system, and slows or speeds up motility. The bacterial toxins and leaky gut causes toxins to leak into the bloodstream and that triggers an immune response.
3. Food sensitivities - certain foods are triggers while other foods are a consequence of a disrupted gut. e.g. gluten and diary are common causes. FODMAPs and histamine foods are reactionary more due to a consequence rather than a root cause. It can result in people eating very few foods which is not desirable or ultimately necessary when the root causes are treated.
4. Hidden inflammation or microbiome imbalance - with chronic food sensitivities, stress, or bacterial dysbiosis the immune system stays on alert - it releases cytokines that irritate the gut's nerves and muscles. Studies show this directly relates to the classic pain - bloat - motility loop. This degree on inflammation doesn't show up on standard blood tests - one needs to test specifically for it.
5. Vagus nerve dysfunction and Gut/Brain axis - the vagus nerve controls motility, poor digestion and serotonin levels. The vagus is the connection between gut and brain. When you're told IBS is due to stress it doesn't really help. Stress from where? You have to work on the gut and vagus both. 90% of serotonin (the happy hormone) is produced in the gut. You need a healthy microbiome to produce serotonin, which you don't have if you suffer with IBS. The cause of mood swings, anxiety, depression and brain fog is explained due to insufficient serotonin.
Testing: microbiome, SIBO, hormones, food sensitivities, cytokines and toxins such as mold or heavy metals. Once imbalances are found, treatment is natural.
Annual blood tests and colonoscopies won't find these root causes.
References: Barbara G. et al., Gastroenterology 2004. Mast cell–nerve interactions in human irritable bowel syndrome. Ohman & Simrén, Gut 2010. Pathogenesis of IBS: Role of inflammation, immunity and neuroimmune interactions. Dinan & Cryan, Gastroenterology Clinics 2011. The microbiome-gut-brain axis in health and disease. Simrén et al., Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology 2013. Intestinal microbiota in functional bowel disorders: A Rome foundation report. Tap et al., Gastroenterology 2017. Identification of an intestinal microbiota signature associated with severity of irritable bowel syndrome.
#ibs #guthealth #rootcausemedicine
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes on
The World’s Easiest Diet to Melt Belly Fat (Backed by Science)
04 nov. 2025
00:11:34
Belly fat is more correctly called visceral fat.
Which means the fat around your organs in your abdomen. Visceral fat is associated with increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, fatty liver, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and Alzheimer's disease.
Belly fat is not the same as peripheral fat found elsewhere in the body. The Journal of Nature Communications entitled "Inherited basis of visceral, abdominal subcutaneous and gluteofemoral fat depots", looked at 40,000 people and determined that visceral fat is the only fat associated with cardio-metabolic disease. Regular fat (located beneath the skin or in glute or thighs) is not.
While extremely impactful on your health, fortunately it isn't difficult to impact your belly fat in meaningful ways.
A study out of BMC Medicine entitled "The Effect of High Polyphenol Mediterranean Diet on Visceral Adiposity..." was a randomized control trial that saw a 14% decrease in visceral fat (!) in the subjects following a Mediterranean diet optimized with polyphenols - plant-based compounds known for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. In the study they consumed more fruit, green tea, walnuts and other foods high in polyphenols which decreasing red meat intake (more on that later). The group not optimized to eat more polyphenols only lost 4% of their visceral fat.
Foods high in polyphenols: dark wild berries, green tea, almonds, walnuts, cinnamon, turmeric, and more.
Polyphenols activity to enhance the microbiome was reported on in the journal Nutrients with an article entitled: Beneficial Effects of Dietary Polyphenols on Gut Microbiota. This found polyphenols to act as a prebiotic fiber to good bacteria but showed that is also protected against bad bacteria from forming in your gut - very exciting!
A strong correlation has been found between the microbiome and visceral fat. A full 16 strains of microbes are associated with gaining visceral fat. Polyphenol protection is sounding pretty great against these.
Now on to why the recommendation for watching how much saturated fat you're consuming. The Journal of Diabetes published a study entitled: Overfeeding Polyunsaturated and Saturated Fat Causes Distinct Effects on Liver and Visceral Fat Accumulation in Humans.
They found that overeating saturated fat promotes visceral fat and liver fat storage, whereas excess consumption of polyunsaturated fat may promote lean tissue in healthy humans.
Now notice the use of the word "overeating". It's fine to have saturated fat in your diet, but watch to make sure that it isn't above 20% to avoid fatty liver and visceral fat increase.
Dietary Tips To summarize these recommendations you can try some of the below recommendations: 1. Consume about 1 gram of lean protein per pound of ideal body weight. 2. Eat 2 cups of dark berries/day. This is 2 servings. Aim for organic. 3. Drink 2 cups of green tea/day. Organic if you can. 4. Eat some low oxalate leafy greens to help oxidize fat faster. e.g. arugula, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, asparagus. 5. Eat some aged cheese - pecorino romano is the best because it's low in lactose and contains the fatty acid CLA which is known to help decrease belly fat. 6. Have a serving of collagen or bone broth to help heal the gut. 7. Have 1/2 to 1 cup fermented dairy because it increases good gut bacteria (SCGAs) which results in decreased visceral fat. 8. Intermittent fast - 4 hours between meals and a 12 to 14 hour fast overnight.
If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.
#guthealth #bellyfat #rootcausemedicine
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/locations/telemedicine/ Call us directly: 727
Heart Palpitations, Shortness of Breath but Your Heart is Fine?
30 oct. 2025
00:12:27
💓 Heart Palpitations and Shortness of Breath — But Your Heart Is Fine?
It’s scary when your heart suddenly starts racing, skips a beat, or you find yourself short of breath. Add in chest tightness or pain, and it’s completely understandable to head straight to the ER or your doctor’s office.
But what happens when you’ve done all that — maybe more than once — and your doctor or cardiologist assures you everything looks normal?
It’s reassuring to know your heart appears healthy… but that doesn’t make it any less unsettling when it starts pounding again or you can’t seem to catch your breath.
So what’s really going on? The answer might surprise you.
🎧 Give this a listen — it could change how you understand your symptoms.
If you’d like help getting to the root cause, we’re here for you. The best next step is to schedule a consultation so we can see if what we do is the right fit for you. 📞 Call 727-335-0400 to get started.
Disclaimer: The information in this video is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health. Never ignore or delay medical advice because of something you’ve seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Small Hiatal Hernia- Can it Cause Symptoms?
20 oct. 2025
00:05:55
If you have a small hiatal hernia you've perhaps been told that your "other" symptoms, such as heart palpitations, chest tightness, shortness of breath or anxiety are not related. This can be confusing.
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice. In this video Dr Vikki Petersen, DC, IFMCP explains why this confusion occurs.
Large hiatal hernias cause direct pressure on the heart and/or lungs due to their sheer size. Due to that direct pressure, the symptoms of chest pressure, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and anxiety can occur. When your doctor has told you that your small hiatal hernia cannot cause those symptoms it's because he or she is thinking with direct pressure.
What they're missing is that small hiatal hernias can cause those symptoms via a different mechanism. The pressure on the stomach causes your body's anti-reflux barriers to be overcome. The result is reflux. The reflux triggers vagal nerve reflexes leading to the symptoms I just mentioned.
These are nerve reflex responses but the symptoms are no less real.
The key is to identify the root cause of the pressure. There are a few potential causes. Some that you can address on your own are: Not overeating Changing your diet to include real vs ultraprocessed foods Chew your food well Don't lie down after you eat
Other factors you'll need some help to address: Losing weight around your mid-section Balance your gut microbiome - good bugs vs bad bugs Assess any toxic load Hormonal imbalance
References: Hyun JJ, 2011 — Clinical Significance of Hiatal Hernia — Gut and Liver.
Kahrilas PJ, 2008 — Approaches to the Diagnosis and Grading of Hiatal Hernia — Gastroenterology & Hepatology.
Andrews WG, 2021 — The relationship of hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux — Annals of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery.
Cleveland Clinic, n.d. (review page current) — Hiatal Hernia: What It Is, Symptoms, Treatment & Surgery — Cleveland Clinic.
Franzén T, 2014 — Is the severity of gastroesophageal reflux dependent on hiatus hernia size? — World J Gastroenterol.
Weitzendorfer M, 2017 — Preoperative diagnosis of hiatal hernia: barium swallow X-ray, high-resolution manometry, or endoscopy? — World J Surg.
Tolone S, 2018 — High-resolution manometry is superior to endoscopy and radiology for hiatus hernia diagnosis — World J Gastroenterol.
Goodwin ML, 2021 — Atypical and typical manifestations of the hiatal hernia — Ann Laparosc Endosc Surg.
Naoum C, 2011 — Left Atrial Compression and the Mechanism of Exercise Impairment in Large Hiatal Hernia — J Am Coll Cardiol. (Large HH → cardiac compression).
Malik A, 2021 — Hiatal Hernia: A Possible Trigger for Atrial Fibrillation — Cureus (case report; association, not proof).
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400 or ➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-nat
Reflux? The Hidden Pressure Causing It
18 oct. 2025
00:03:34
If you have acid reflux you're told the cause is too much acid. That's not necessarily true.
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly: 727-335-0400
Let's look at the science. Hiatal hernia and acid reflux have a 70 to 100% correlation. Where you find one you're likely to find the other.
There is a normal pressure gradient that pushes downwards to keep food moving in the right direction. The pressure is from top down throughout your entire digestive tract.
When pressure builds in your belly - where it shouldn't be - pressure is now pushing in the wrong direction. It's pushing up on your stomach and up on the underside of your diaphragm. This pressure creates acid reflux and hiatal hernia.
This pressure from the abdomen also breaches the 3 natural anti-reflux barriers inherent in your digestive tract. They are located in the bottom of your esophagus, the inner circle of your diaphragm (crura) where the esophagus passes through, and on the underside of your diaphragm. The natural barriers that ensure reflux doesn't occur cannot function with increased abdominal pressure.
To fix this you simply have to identify and handle the source(s) of the abdominal pressure. It can be: bad bugs in your gut poor diet causing inflammation food sensitivities toxicity large meals tight clothes abdominal fat
It's a matter of getting assistance to assess what's happening for you and addressing it naturally. The natural approach works very well.
I'm not giving you medical advice; the purpose of this video is education.
If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.
#acidreflux #hiatalhernia #guthealth #rootcausemedicine References: Fossmark R., Olaisen O. (2024). Changes in the Gastrointestinal Microbiota Induced by Proton Pump Inhibitors — A Review of Findings from Experimental Trials. Journal of Clinical Medicine.
Wu J., et al. (2024). Abdominal Obesity Increases Intragastric Pressure and Disrupts the Esophagogastric Junction in GERD. BMC Gastroenterology.
Pandolfino J.E., et al. (2013). High-Resolution Manometry of the Esophagogastric Junction: Pressure Topography and Relationship to Hiatal Hernia. Neurogastroenterology & Motility.
Gyawali C.P., et al. (2018). Physiologic Evaluation of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Clinician’s Guide. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America.
Lee J.S., et al. (2022). Effect of Increased Intra-abdominal Pressure on Gastroesophageal Reflux: Insights from High-Resolution Impedance Manometry. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility.
Lidor A.O., et al. (2005). Pressure Characteristics of the Esophagogastric Junction Before and After Hiatal Hernia Repair. JAMA Surgery.
Kahrilas P.J., et al. (2014). The Role of the Diaphragm and Lower Esophageal Sphincter in the Pathophysiology of GERD. American Journal of Physiology – Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
Acid Attacks After Meals? Acid Pocket Explained
17 oct. 2025
00:04:50
After meals do you feel burning, pressure, chest tightness, heart palpitations or even anxiety?
Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice.
Your acid pocket could be to blame. What is it? The acid pocket is a layer eof highly acidic stomach "juice" that floats just above the meal you just ate. It sits at the very top of your stomach.
If you have too much pressure in your belly squeezing your stomach, the pocket can get pushed upwards past your anti-reflux barriers located in the bottom of your esophagus, your diaphragm (crura) and a ligement under your diaphragm. This allows reflux to occur.
The acid exposure to your esophagus can trigger nerve reflxes, via your vagus nerve, causing sensations like chest pressure, palpitations and shortness of breath. This can happen even with a small hiatal hernia.
Addressing the root cause of the excess pressure can address the problem. I explain all the causes in the video.
If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.
References: Kahrilas PJ, McColl K, Fox M, O’Rourke L, Sifrim D, Smout AJPM, Boeckxstaens G. The acid pocket: a target for treatment in reflux disease. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2013;108(7):1058–1064.
Beaumont H, Bennink RJ, de Jong J, et al. The position of the acid pocket as a major risk factor for acidic reflux in healthy subjects and patients with GORD. Gut. 2010;59(4):441–451.
Sifrim D, et al. “Capping the Gastric Acid Pocket to Reduce Postprandial Reflux.” Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2013.
Rohof WO, et al. Proton Pump Inhibitors Reduce the Size and Acidity of the Acid Pocket in GERD Patients. CGH Journal. 2014.
“The Role of the Acid Pocket in Gastroesophageal Reflux.” Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. 2016 (review).
Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ Call us directly: 727-335-0400
About this channel: Dr. Vikki Petersen, DC, CFMP, is founder of Root Cause Medical Clinic. Our multidisciplinary team of licensed APRNs and clinicians provides functional medicine care focusing on gut, hormone, and metabolic health. Educational videos are reviewed by licensed medical staff and based on current scientific research.
Do you suffer from acid reflux? Are you taking a PPI medication? Do you still have symptoms or are you troubled with night time reflux?
➡️ Click HERE to Book a Consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/locations/telemedicine/ Call us directly: 727-335-0400
There is a new antacid drug on the market called Vonoprazan. It was created in Japan where they have been using it for 10 years. Here in the U.S. it's been on the market for just a few years - 2022 and 2023. It was approved for patients with an H. pylori infection and those with erosive esophagitis respectively. It is also utilized for those patients who are non-responders to a PPI.
Pros: it's stronger, lasts longer and acts faster than PPIs. And it seems to be more effective for H. pylori infections and erosive esophagitis.
Cons: it's more expensive, insurance may not cover it, and it suffers many of the same side effects as PPIs. Chief amongst them is shifting your microbiome to favor "bad bacteria" grwoth which in fact sets you up to continue to have acid reflux.
Further it reduces beneficial bacteria that can create obesity, hiatal hernia, and chronic reflux.
In addition, it increases your risk for C. diff infections, a dangerous form of diarrhea that can be life-threatening, causes bloat, nausea, loss of taste, headaches, fluid retention, kidney injury and skin rashes, along with osteoporosis, deficiency of vitamin B12, calcium and magnesium.
To determine what most makes sense for you, find a clinician who understands the drug options, side effects, along with natural options for treatment. As an example, H. pylori can be treated naturally very effectively.
Finding a clinician who can help address the root cause of acid reflux could lessen the duration either antacid drug.
If you'd like help we're here for you. The best next step is to contact us for a consultation and then we can determine if what we do is a good fit for you. Call 727-335-0400.
References: 1. Kato M, Suzuki M, Nagahara A, et al. "Vonoprazan Versus Lansoprazole for Healing and Maintenance of Erosive Esophagitis", 2022, Gastroenterology
2. Hori K, Matsukawa J, Umeno M, et al. "Seven-day vonoprazan and low-dose amoxicillin dual therapy as first-line Helicobacter pylori treatment: a multicentre randomised trial in Japan" 2020, Gut
3. Take S, Mizuno M, Ishiki K, et al. "Eradication efficacy and the effect of vonoprazan–amoxicillin dual therapy" 2025, The Lancet Microbe
4. Wang X, Chen Y, Li X, et al. "Effect of Potassium-Competitive Acid Blockers on Human Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" 2023, Frontiers in Pharmacology
5. Takayuki Taketo, et al. "Long-term potassium-competitive acid blockers administration changes gut microbiota: insights from a 2.2-year cohort study" 2023, Helicobacter
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary.