Heartburn (acid reflux)

Description

A burning pain or discomfort that is often felt in the upper/mid-chest/stomach area behind the breastbone. The burning sensation can often be felt rising up the throat. The discomfort may worsen when lying down.

Heartburn is often brought on when hydrochloric acid (the acid used by the stomach to digest food) enters the esophagus. The sensitive tissue of the esophagus is burned and irritated by the acid causing burning, pain, and discomfort.

Symptoms

1. A burning pain or discomfort in the chest behind the breastbone or throat after eating.
2. A sour or salty taste in the back of the throat.
3. Difficulty swallowing.
4. Feeling bloated, or needing to burp.
5. Nausea.

Treatments

The following may assist with heartburn symptoms:

1. Drinking a large glass of water immediately after feeling an attack come on may help.
2. Mix 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and sip during meals (do not drink other beverages during meal times).
3. Have your meals at least 3 hours before bedtime.
4. Lying on the left side may relieve heartburn as the stomach is below the esophagus, also elevating the upper body on pillows may assist.
5. Dietary changes

NOTE: Over-the-counter antacids may provide quick relief however prolonged use may be masking an underlying condition. Since many antacids contain large amounts of sodium, aluminum, calcium, and magnesium taking these every day can lead to dangerous mineral imbalances. If you are taking antacids more than three times a week consult a medical professional.

Nutrients and supplements:

1. Acid formula – We have formulated Acid Remedy using all-natural herbs that help to balance your pH so that you will be in a position of better health. Not only does it assist with acid reflux and the consequent heartburn but it also helps to balance your bodily pH.
2. Bicarbonate of soda – helps neutralize the stomach acid that is generated during the digestive process and helps in the breakdown of certain enzymes.
3. MSM – helps to relieve hyperacidity without disrupting the acid-alkaline balance. MSM is able to decrease the severity of ethanol/HCl-induced gastric mucosal injury through the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation.
4. Digestive enzymes – are required for the proper digestion of food.
5. Probiotics – probiotic use can be beneficial for GERD and heartburn symptoms and to replace friendly bacteria in the stomach.
6. Vitamin B Complex – is required for proper digestion
7. Coral calcium – calcium magnesium has an alkalising effect that aids in binding up stomach acid.

Causes

Several factors may be implicated with heartburn:

1. A defective esophageal sphincter muscle can cause stomach acid to slip into the esophagus.
2. When the esophageal sphincter muscle pressure is reduced as a result of alcohol, drugs, and smoking.
3. The volume of the stomach is increased after large meals.
4. Laying down or bending over after a meal thus allowing stomach acid into the esophagus.
5. Having a hiatal hernia.
6. Pregnancy and obesity may increase gastric pressure
7. Diet: eating certain foods may cause heartburn
8. Asprin and ibuprofen may cause heatburn
9. Pregnant women or women who are on birth control pills are more likely to suffer from heartburn since estrogens can weaken the esophageal hiatus muscle

Underlying Emotions

There may be feelings of fear, dread, prolonged uncertainty, and anxiety when suffering from heartburn

Those suffering from stomach problems may lack the capacity to cope consciously with annoyances or their own aggressive urges.

Diet

1. Eating fresh pineapple or papaya with meals will assist with digestion
2. Avoid meat, alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods, fatty foods, salty foods, coffee, caffeine, sugar, carbonated drinks, peppermint, spearmint, onions, chocolate, processed food, citrus fruits, acidic fruit juices, and tomato
3. Eat smaller meals, chew the food well, and eat more slowly.

Remedies