Many people experience concerns about eating, body image, or weight at some point in their lives. But for some, these concerns can develop into bulimia nervosa, a condition often characterized by repeated episodes of vomiting, usually driven by the desire to control or lose weight.
Over time, behaviors associated with bulimia, such as binge eating, cycles of restriction, and frequent vomiting, can contribute to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Not everyone with bulimia will develop these conditions, but understanding the connection is an important step toward protecting your health long-term.
How is acid reflux related to bulimia?
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. This backflow can irritate the esophageal lining and cause discomfort. When acid reflux occurs frequently, it may develop into GERD, which is essentially chronic acid reflux.
In bulimia nervosa, repeated vomiting is a common behavior, though it does not occur in every case. Frequent vomiting can put extra strain on the digestive system and impair the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle responsible for keeping stomach acid from moving upward into the esophagus. As this muscle weakens, the likelihood of acid reflux increases, potentially leading to ongoing irritation and inflammation.
Some people wonder whether throwing up will help relieve acid reflux. While it may temporarily reduce pressure or discomfort, vomiting doesn’t treat reflux or heartburn. On the contrary, it exposes the esophagus to even more stomach acid, which can further damage the lining and worsen reflux over time.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD?
Common symptoms of acid reflux and GERD include:
- Heartburn
- A burning or tight sensation in the chest
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- General chest discomfort
Although these symptoms can be distressing, the good news is that they are often treatable. With proper medical care and support for eating disorder recovery, many people are able to manage reflux symptoms effectively and reduce their impact on daily life.
Long-term health risks of acid reflux from frequent vomiting
While acid reflux from vomiting may cause only mild discomfort when experienced occasionally, untreated or recurrent episodes can lead to more serious health complications.
Esophagitis
Repeated exposure to stomach acid can inflame and damage the lining of the esophagus, a condition called esophagitis. This inflammation often causes pain, a burning sensation, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. If left unaddressed, persistent irritation can increase the risk of developing ulcers in the esophagus. Over time, chronic inflammation and scarring can also result in strictures or narrowing of the esophagus that make swallowing more difficult.
Barrett’s esophagus
In some individuals, prolonged exposure to stomach acid can prompt the esophageal lining to change. Normally, the esophagus is protected by a tough lining, but ongoing irritation may cause it to transform into tissue resembling the thinner, more fragile lining of the intestines. This condition, known as Barrett’s esophagus, is relatively uncommon but significant, as it increases the long-term risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Chronic heartburn
Does puking help or worsen heartburn? All signs lead to the latter, and in fact, repeated vomiting may even cause heartburn to become chronic. While it’s usually not immediately dangerous, chronic heartburn can significantly disrupt daily life by interfering with eating, sleeping, and concentration. Taking early steps to manage reflux can help ease symptoms and improve overall comfort and quality of life.
Dental problems
Vomiting exposes teeth to strong stomach acid, which can erode tooth enamel. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, discoloration, and even halitosis (bad breath). Early dental care and preventive measures are essential to protecting oral health.
These potential complications may seem overwhelming, but most of them are preventable or manageable with appropriate care. Working with healthcare providers to address both acid reflux and underlying conditions, such as bulimia, can greatly improve physical health, protect the esophagus, and support long-term recovery.
Treatment options for acid reflux from repeated vomiting
Managing acid reflux in individuals with bulimia is most effective when both physical and emotional health are addressed together.
Therapy plays a central role in treating bulimia. Counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals understand and manage the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with disordered eating, while developing healthier coping strategies. However, CBT doesn’t work the same for everyone. Research shows that some patients may not complete treatment or fully respond to it, and may require adjustments to therapy or additional support to see meaningful improvements.
One useful approach that can complement CBT is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which focuses on building skills to manage intense emotions and respond to difficult situations in healthier ways. Because bingeing and purging are often linked to emotion regulation, DBT helps individuals recognize emotional triggers, stay grounded in the moment, and replace harmful behaviors with safer coping tools. Early research suggests DBT can reduce bingeing and purging behaviors, especially for people who struggle with strong emotional swings or feel overwhelmed by stress.
In addition to therapy, nutritional support and medical care are essential components of recovery. Working with a registered dietitian can help restore balance to eating habits, ensure that the body gets essential nutrients, and support digestive health. At the same time, healthcare providers may recommend medications for acid reflux, such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. These treatments heal the esophagus by reducing stomach acid and alleviating symptoms.
When taken together, these approaches support both the psychological and physical aspects of recovery. With the right guidance, it’s possible to manage discomfort, strengthen overall health, and begin rebuilding a healthier relationship with food.
Lifestyle changes to reduce acid reflux in bulimia
There are several gentle, supportive ways to reduce acid reflux symptoms and support your digestive system.
- Notice patterns: Certain foods or drinks may trigger reflux in some people, such as very spicy meals, rich or fatty foods, or carbonated beverages. Paying attention to what affects your body can help you make choices that reduce discomfort without feeling restrictive.
- Give your body time after eating: Remaining upright for a while after meals, whether sitting, standing, or going for a short walk, can prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Simple adjustments like this ease symptoms and make meals more comfortable.
- Include nourishing foods: A variety of foods that feel good for your body can aid digestion and overall well-being. When you’re ready, gradually adding options like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or proteins can help your body recover and feel stronger.
Remember, these changes don’t need to happen all at once. Even trying one or two small changes can have a positive impact. The goal is to find what works for your body and to care for yourself in ways that feel kind and manageable.
Work toward digestive comfort and recovery that lasts with Health Loft
Now that you know how repeated vomiting affects acid reflux and places strain on the digestive system, potentially leading to complications like GERD, it’s important to keep in mind that recovery and effective treatment are possible. With proper support and treatment, both reflux and vomiting-related digestive symptoms can improve. Working with a nutritionist who specializes in eating disorder recovery can help rebuild trust with food, support digestive healing, and create nourishment plans that prioritize health rather than weight or restriction.
At Health Loft, our nutritionists offer compassionate, evidence-based care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. We understand that recovery is not just about managing symptoms, but also supporting long-term healing, stability, and self-compassion. If you or someone you care about is struggling, know that you are not alone.
Partner with a Health Loft nutritionist to take the next step toward a healthier, more supported future.
This article was reviewed by Katie Whitson, RD, LD. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace personalized nutritional advice.
