By Kay Leaman, Health Architect
Acid Reflux happens occasionally to many of us and for many others it is a consistent problem and concern. So, what is it?
Acid Reflux happens when the sphincter muscle located at the lower end of the esophagus relaxes at the wrong time (fails to close), allowing stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. We can experience a burning in the chest (heartburn), belching, nausea, a bitter taste, discomfort in the upper abdomen or a dry cough. Complications that can arise from regular episodes such as ulcers (stomach lining is exposed to bacteria that damages the cells which create the ulcer), inflammation or difficulty swallowing.
Risk factors include obesity, Hiatal hernia (bulging at top of stomach above the diaphragm), connective tissue disorders like scleroderma or delayed stomach emptying. If you smoke, overeat (clean your plate syndrome), eat late at night, use aspirin on a regular basis or enjoy a frequent diet of coffee, alcohol or fried and fatty foods, you can aggravate this condition.
Rolaids/Tums, etc. are not the answer. These products neutralize stomach acid, which hampers the absorption of nutrients such as iron and B12. The same occurs with medications that coat the stomach. Taking these products on a regular basis can increase the chance of becoming anemic or developing osteoporosis. NOTE: If you’re experiencing the first signs of GERD, consuming these for a short period of time can give the esophagus time to heal.
From a holistic view, GERD is caused by low stomach acid. To determine if you have low stomach acid: On an empty stomach drink 1/4 tsp. baking soda in 1 cup cold water. If you burp within five minutes, your stomach acids are low. Some things you can do to increase stomach acids: never drink during a meal, relax and focus on breathing before eating, don’t overeat, only take medications/supplements with food unless the directions specifically say otherwise.
Natural medications:
Aloe: Decolorized and purified aloe vera juice may be a safe and effective treatment for reducing reflux symptoms. It also has gastro protective properties and can help us protect our esophagus from reflux. If the reflux has already caused damage the healing capacity of aloe vera will also come in handy to combat those small ulcers that may have resulted.
Digestive Enzymes with or without HCL or Pylori Plex (deglycyrrhizinated) and lastly,
Gaviscon-Advanced (alginate). If you consider the Gaviscon-Advanced, verify it has only this name. This product creates a physical barrier preventing the stomach acid from coming up. After taking this medication drink no more than one or two swallows of water to ensure the foam is not watered down.
Diet:
Less fatty food, alcohol, spicy foods, coffee :(.
More whole grains and fibers such as ginger, leafy greens, brown rice, coconut, celery, berries, melon bananas, fennel, avocado, apples and pears.
As we learn more we can become better advocates for our health. To your health.
HealthyDay HealthyLife
succeedhdhl@gmail.com
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