Ep. 9: Is Histamine Causing Your Acid Reflux? | GERD, MCAS & Low Stomach Acid Explained
The Reflux Revolution Podcast by Molly PelletierShow Notes
If you’ve been told reflux is just “too much acid” or feel like you’ve tried everything without relief, this episode is for you.
We’re joined by Dr. Zachary Spiritos, a Duke-trained gastroenterologist who specializes in neurogastroenterology and functional GI care, to unpack the real root causes of reflux—from structural issues to overlooked contributors like POTS, MCAS, and hypermobility.
🎙 About Dr. Spiritos: Originally from Philadelphia, Dr. Spiritos now practices in North Carolina. He completed his gastroenterology fellowship at Duke University and focuses on IBS, dysautonomia, functional GI disorders, and complex motility issues. He integrates nutrition, stress management, and gut-brain therapies to support whole-person healing.
🎯 What You’ll Learn in Episode 9: • Why abdominal pressure—not just acid—is a major reflux driver • The truth about low stomach acid (and what testing actually shows) • The impact of hiatal hernias, POTS, MCAS, and hypermobility • Why diet-only approaches often fall short • A full-body approach to healing reflux symptoms
💛 If this episode opened your eyes, leave a review, follow the show, and share it with someone who needs real answers. Healing starts with understanding.
🌿 Resources & Support: • Dr. Zachary Spiritos: Instagram: @drzacspiritos • Explore coaching & resources: www.flora-nutrition.com • Follow on Instagram: @mollypelletier.rd • Watch on YouTube: Molly Pelletier, RD • Follow on TikTok: @mollypelletier.RD • Apply for 1-on-1 coaching with FLORA Nutrition → https://www.mollypelletier.com/nutritioncounselingapplication
FREE 14 Day Reflux Reset Program: https://calm-queen-816.myflodesk.com/wffw6xiefw FREE 3 day Acid Reflux Meal Plan : https://calm-queen-816.myflodesk.com/js99xqtzdn
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes to your routine.
More from The Reflux Revolution Podcast by Molly Pelletier
If you think that you'll never be able to heal from LPR, GERD, or chronic reflux, this episode will change your mind!
Think your acid reflux or GERD is caused by low stomach acid? In this episode, Molly breaks down the low stomach acid myth, what stomach acid actually does, and why reflux is more often connected to motility and the reflux barrier, not too little acid.
Struggling with difficulty swallowing, dysphagia, or reflux? In this episode, we’re breaking down the connection between dysphagia, GERD, and LPR—including what causes swallowing problems, how reflux can impact your ability to swallow, and how dietitians and speech-language pathologists work together to support healing. 😇
Why do PPIs fail for some people with LPR and GERD and even after doing everything "right"? In this episode, I'm joined by reflux researcher Dr. Nikki Johnston to break down the role of pepsin and non-acid reflux, the latest research on pepsin-targeted treatments, and practical ways to reduce pepsin exposure. 🙌
Normal endoscopy but still dealing with a lump in your throat, chronic hoarseness, or constant throat clearing? You're not imagining it and your test results aren't the whole story.