ACID REFLUX
Description
Body System
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Dietary & Other Supplements
1. Vitamin D3/K2: Vitamin D3/K2 supports proper muscle function and helps the body absorb calcium and magnesium for effective muscle contraction. It also plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal inflammation, and a deficiency may contribute to acid reflux.
2. Betaine HCI: Betaine HCI increases stomach acidity in individuals with low stomach acid, reducing symptoms of acid reflux.
3. Omega 3: Omega-3, commonly obtained through fish oil or certain seeds, is a popular supplement known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce inflammation in the body, contributing to overall health and well-being.
4. Methylsulfonylmethane [MSM]: MSM decreases the severity of gastric mucosal injury induced by ethanol or HCL by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation.
5. Melatonin: Melatonin plays a dual role by reducing gastric acid production and activating gastrin, which, in turn, closes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and offers protection to the esophageal mucosa (the protective lining of the esophagus).
6. Tryptophan: Tryptophan demonstrates a protective effect on the mucosal barrier (the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract), promoting the healing of damaged mucosal cells. Additionally, it contributes to increased melatonin levels, enhancing the overall gastroesophageal protective mechanisms.
7. Probiotics: Probiotics promote digestive health and may aid in managing acid reflux by reducing regurgitation and improving heartburn.
Plant Extracts
1. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice [DGL]: DGL promotes mucus activity, potentially acting as a protective barrier against stomach and esophageal acid, offering relief from symptoms of acid reflux.
2. Slippery Elm: The mucilage in slippery elm acts as a barrier against the damaging effects of acid on the esophagus. It may also have a local anti-inflammatory effect in the stomach.
3. Cumin Oil: In moderate amounts, cumin oil can prevent indigestion and stimulate the production of stomach juices, promoting digestive health.
4. Peppermint Oil: Inhaling peppermint oil can ease heartburn, but it may also relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), potentially allowing stomach contents to leak up into the esophagus.
5. Ginger Extract: Ginger extract, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, may contribute to reducing inflammation in the esophagus. Additionally, it has the potential to relax the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), thus aiding in preventing the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
6. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera soothes acid reflux symptoms by reducing inflammation and forming a protective coating in the esophagus, providing relief and comfort to the digestive tract.
Natural Compounds
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Anecdotal evidence suggests that unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) may alleviate acid reflux by influencing stomach acidity. While some people believe it may have an impact on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), scientific support for this is not conclusive. To protect tooth enamel, ACV consumption is recommended through a straw.
Complementary & Alternative Treatments
1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture, suggested for alleviating symptoms like acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting, targets specific points such as PC6 (neiguan) and ST36 (zusanli) (associated with relief from acid reflux).
2. Acupressure: Acupressure, focusing on points like the Pericardium-6 (P6) (located above the wrist), may contribute to relieving acid reflux symptoms.
3. Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care focuses on resolving spine issues that may lead to nerve interference, impacting organ function, including the digestive system. By correcting spinal misalignments through chiropractic techniques, there is a potential to enhance nerve communication and improve lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function.
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Age, Poor Diet, Stress, Medications, Bacterial Infections, Zinc Deficiency
Books That You May Want To Read
How Nutrients Function
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components aid in tissue repair and maintenance, ensuring optimal bodily function. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
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Lectures To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
A variety of natural remedies and lifestyle changes can help reduce acid reflux and its side effects quickly. Dietary modifications include:
Eat your largest meal at midday. This will give your body plenty of time to digest the food properly.
Make your breakfast and supper small and nutrient-dense to avoid hunger.
Eat easily digestible, light, boiled, or steamed foods. Include vegetables, quality natural yogurts, rice, whole grains, cottage cheese, and vegetable juices.
Eat your last meal of the day no later than 6 P.M. Give your body enough time to process it before going to bed.
Use mild spices.
Eat digestive enzyme-rich fruits such as pineapples, kiwis, and mangoes.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but not at mealtime.
Vegetable juices: If your acid reflux is severe, you might want to try a vegetable-juice-only diet for a couple of days. Include some cabbage juice, which helps relieve the symptoms. However, before you start, make sure that there are no medical contradictions to such a restrictive diet. Consult a medical professional.
Furthermore, also consider:
Losing excess weight,
Reducing stress,
Sleeping with your head raised at night,
Visiting a chiropractor.
Things To Avoid
If you suffer from acid reflux, pay attention to the circumstances surrounding its occurrence.
Coffee, alcohol, fruit juices, chocolate, citrus fruits, fried foods, and even tomatoes are some of the foods and beverages that can cause acid reflux. If any food or drink in your diet is associated with this condition, eliminate it immediately.
Stress, smoking, and excess weight can also contribute to acid reflux.
Additionally, there are multiple dietary aspects that you should avoid to diminish the risk of its occurrence:
Don't eat large meals close to bedtime.
Don't overeat. Large meals take a lot of time to digest.
Avoid eating and snacking after 6 P.M.
Don't drink water or any beverages [especially carbonated] prior to, with, or right after your meal. Water dilutes and weakens stomach acid.
Avoid greasy, fatty, and fried foods.
Do not eat spicy foods.
Do not consume highly processed and sugary foods.
Try reducing or eliminating meat completely. Especially during acid reflux attacks. Cold-cut meats are some of the worst to consume.