Treating Acid Reflux Using Alternative Methods

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux disease, is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up or refluxes) into the esophagus. The liquid that is backed up is very acidic and contains an enzyme, called pepsin, which is produced by the stomach for digestion of proteins. It can also contain bile that has been regurgitated from the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The product that is regurgitated can damage the lining of the esophagus, causing a condition known as esophagitis.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent GERD

Making changes in your lifestyle and diet can be very helpful in preventing future attacks of GERD. Dr. Eric Esrailian, the head of the Department of Gastroenterology at the University of California at Los Angeles, has been quoted as stating, "By modifying their lifestyle, some of my patients are able to stop taking their GERD medication."

Obesity & Weight Loss

Being overweight or obese is a major contributor to the cause of symptoms associated with acid reflux. The heavier a person is the likelier they are to have recurrent heartburn. Excessive weight can put pressure on your stomach and can cause acid to regurgitate into the esophagus. Losing weight can decrease this pressure. Even losing just 5% - 10% of body weight can significantly reduce the symptoms of GERD.

Avoiding Dietary Triggers

There are some foods that can trigger the symptoms of GERD. The best way to figure out your trigger foods is to keep a food diary. A food diary should include the date, what foods were eaten, what time these foods were eaten, and what, if any, symptoms these foods caused. Once you've learned what your trigger foods are you can more effectively learn to adjust your diet and avoid foods that cause you pain. It has also been shown that if you eat smaller meals more frequently you can avoid over-production of the acids that cause acid indigestion.

Although trigger foods are different for everyone there are some common foods that seem to bring about symptoms of GERD. Spicy foods and foods that are high in protein can trigger heartburn or make it worse. Other common foods include citrus fruits, such as oranges, tomatoes and tomato products, chocolate, onions, garlic, and fatty foods. Common beverages that can cause GERD include carbonated drinks and drinks that contain caffeine, such as coffee and tea.

Avoiding Alcohol and Cigarettes

Alcohol can trigger the reflux of acid because it has a tendency to relax the lower esophageal sphincter and should be avoided. Alcohol has been known to lower one's inhibitions and can lead to the consumption of trigger foods that could cause symptoms of GERD.

Studies have also shown nicotine to be a drug that relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. In addition it has the ability to change the composition of saliva and can cause buildup of acid in the esophagus. The risk of heartburn is increased because the amount of acid secreted by the stomach is also increased by the use of nicotine.

Medications Used to Treat GERD

Acid Reflux Disease is usually treated with medications that alkalize the contents of the stomach and intestines. Medications such as Tums, Mylanta, and Zantac reduce the production of stomach acid, treat ulcers, and prevent future ulcers from developing. There are ways to treat acid reflux without the use of medications.

Sources

Wright, Jonathon. Why Stomach Acid Is Good for You: Natural Relief from Heartburn, Indigestion, Reflux and GERD. New York, NY: M. Evans and Company, Inc., 2001.

Whitteken, Martie. Natural Alternatives to Nexium, Maalox, Tagamet, Prilosec & Other Acid Blockers: What to Use to Relieve Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and Gastric Ailments. Garden City Park, NY: Square One Publishers, 2008.

Jean Rothman. "Self-Help for GERD."
Everyday Health: Today's the Day.
Web. Accessed 08/31/10.

"Treating Acid Reflux Disease With Diet and Lifestyle Changes."
WebMD: Better Information, Better Health.
Web. Accessed 08/31/10.

Daniel J. DeNoon. "Weight Loss Helps GERD."
WebMD: Better Information, Better Health.
Web. Accessed 08/31/10.