Scared to Stop PPIs: Can I Still Use the Heartburn Relief Kit?

We get it: it can feel scary as heck to come off a PPI when it’s the only thing keeping your heartburn at bay. If the thought of ditching it fills you with dread, you’re not alone (just check out our comments section!). And no, it doesn’t mean you can’t start using the Heartburn Relief Kit.

Here’s the truth - yes, we ideally recommend stopping your PPI on day 8 of the Heartburn Relief Kit and then move on to the Reflux Inhibitor. That’s because the plan is designed to retrain your stomach to produce the acid it actually needs, and PPIs get in the way of that process.

But guess what? If you’re not ready to stop just yet, that’s okay. It won’t cause any harm, and it won’t stop the kit from working, it will just slow things down a bit. And we’re totally fine with that if it means you feel more confident and in control.

Some Clients Stay On Their PPI Initially And Still Do Great

We’ve had people with Barrett’s, ulcers, or just long-term reflux trauma start the Heartburn Relief Kit while still taking their PPI under doctor supervision. They just begin with the Acid Relief (AR) first alongside their PPI and then gradually work toward coming off the PPI when they’re ready (if simply wary of the transition) or when their Barrett’s Esophagus/ulcers have resolved. Bear in mind that if you’re in the BE/ulcer category, this isn’t an option - it’s a necessity. You must stay on your PPI until the erosion has healed and then you can move on to the RI. But if you’re just nervous about switching over and need a little more time to wean off your PPI? That’s cool too.

So, if you want to ease in super gently, here’s what that could look like:

• Start with Acid Relief (2 capsules daily) to begin repairing and calming the lining of your gut.
• Stay on your PPI for now if that feels safer to you.
• When you’re ready, start to wean off the PPI and bring in the Reflux Inhibitor (RI). That’s when you begin rebuilding your stomach acid, which is the key to preventing acid reflux. Remember, the AR is managing symptoms and healing your gut but the RI is what actually stops the reflux.

But What If I Stop My PPI And all Hell Breaks Loose?

Fair question. A lot of people panic about “rebound reflux,” which is that nasty flare-up that can happen when you come off acid blockers. The good news? That’s not a permanent thing and it doesn’t always happen. If it does, it’s way easier to deal with and doesn’t last half as long once you’re on the Reflux Inhibitor and getting those acid levels balanced again. What you’re feeling isn’t worse acid reflux, it’s your body adjusting and getting your acidity to where it needs to be to trigger your LES to close (the little muscle stopping acid going back up into your esophagus) and prevent reflux from happening. 

This phase is actually more about getting your RI dose right. Too low, and your stomach doesn’t have enough acid to signal your LES to close, which means acid still escape, regardless of how little is there. And if it’s too high? You might feel a bit of burning or bloating. So finding that sweet spot is key. And we’re here to help you tweak it until it clicks.

Don’t Panic If You’re Not Seeing Results Right Away

We usually see small improvements in clients after a few weeks on the RI. And most people hit their real turning point around the 6-week mark. That’s when confidence builds and symptoms ease up.

Just don’t let a temporary flare-up make you doubt the plan. A flare doesn’t mean it’s not working; it just means something needs adjusting. And it’s usually your dosage.

The same rules apply if you're still on your PPI when you start. The process hasn’t failed; you’re just taking a slower route. Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Your Pace Is Perfect If It Works For You

Whether you jump right in or need to take a slower path, we’re right here with you. The only downside of staying on your PPI a little longer is that it will delay your progress a bit until you start the RI. But if that helps you feel safe and supported, it’s worth it. Peace of mind helps to reduce stress which also helps to reduce acid reflux so it’s a win-win.

Once you’re ready to start tapering off, we’re here. You can message us, email us, or jump into our Facebook client group and chat with others who’ve done the exact same thing.

This Is About Long Term Healing, Not A Quick Fix

You don’t need to white-knuckle your way through this. You can go at your pace, check in often, ask questions, and make changes as needed. That’s what we’re here for.

The Heartburn Relief Kit isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about long-term healing and resolving your acid reflux for good. Whether you’re on a PPI now or not, you can still start supporting your gut today in the way that works best for you.

Questions? Reach us anytime at support@terrahealthessentials.com or shoot us a DM on Facebook Messenger. We’ve helped thousands of people just like you, and you are not doing this alone.

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