Why do we regurgitate?
- Fysiobasen
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Regurgitating small amounts of stomach contents is a common experience, especially in infants, but adults may also experience it in certain situations. Regurgitation occurs when stomach contents involuntarily move up into the esophagus and sometimes into the mouth. While often harmless, frequent regurgitation may signal an underlying condition. This article explains why regurgitation occurs, what happens in the body, and when it may be necessary to seek medical advice.
What happens in the body during regurgitation?
Regurgitation occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter—the muscle that separates the esophagus and the stomach—fails to stay closed. Normally, this sphincter functions as a valve that prevents stomach contents from moving upward. If the sphincter weakens, acid, fluid, or food may flow back into the esophagus¹.
In infants, this muscle is still immature, which explains why regurgitation is so common in the first months of life². In adults, other mechanisms are often involved.
Common causes of regurgitation in adults
1. Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD)
When stomach acid regularly leaks into the esophagus, it can cause regurgitation, heartburn, and discomfort³.
2. Overfilled stomach
Eating large meals or drinking fluids too quickly increases stomach pressure, which may push contents upward.
3. Pregnancy
Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure can weaken the sphincter.
4. Obesity
Excess abdominal pressure may prevent the sphincter from staying closed.
5. Certain medications
Drugs such as blood pressure medications and asthma treatments can weaken sphincter function⁴.
What does regurgitation feel like?
Regurgitation may cause a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, the sensation of liquid in the throat, mild burning in the chest, or belching after meals. In some cases, it may be accompanied by nausea or bloating.
When should you see a doctor?
While regurgitation is not always dangerous, medical attention is advised if you experience:
Frequent or painful acid reflux
Difficulty swallowing
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent cough or hoarseness
These symptoms may indicate more serious conditions such as GERD, esophagitis, or peptic ulcers⁵.
How to reduce regurgitation
Eat smaller meals and avoid eating right before bedtime
Elevate the head of the bed to prevent reflux during sleep
Avoid foods and drinks that weaken the sphincter, such as alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, and peppermint
Maintain a healthy body weight
Avoid tight clothing around the abdomen
In some cases, medical treatment such as acid-reducing medications or surgery may be necessary, but this should be evaluated individually.
Summary
Regurgitation is common, especially in infants, but also occurs in adults for various reasons. Most cases are harmless, but frequent or bothersome regurgitation may require medical evaluation. Understanding the causes and making simple lifestyle adjustments can often provide effective relief.
References
Fass R, Ofman JJ. Gastroesophageal reflux disease — should we adopt a new conceptual framework? Am J Gastroenterol. 2002.
Vandenplas Y, Rudolph CD, et al. Pediatric gastroesophageal reflux clinical practice guidelines. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2009.
El-Serag HB, et al. Update on the epidemiology of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review. Gut. 2014.
Kahrilas PJ, Shaheen NJ, Vaezi MF. American Gastroenterological Association Medical Position Statement on the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Gastroenterology. 2008.
Vakil N, et al. The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a global evidence-based consensus. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006.
