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Recommendations for GERD
It is essential to recognize that GERD is not caused by excessive stomach acid; this is a common misnomer and the opposite of the truth. People who have GERD in fact typically have too little stomach acid. While stomach acid in the esophagus is the cause of the symptoms and damage associated with GERD, the underlying problem is caused by too little acid (HCL) in the stomach. Because of a deficiency of stomach acid, the esophageal sphincter which normally keeps the acid contained in the stomach becomes “lazy” and/or “confused” and allows a backflow of acid into the esophagus, causing irritation.
To best treat your individual condition, we recommend having your stomach function tested to measure stomach acid. If it is in fact low (which is very common), you will want to supplement with Betaine hydrochloric acid. You will want to work up your dose gradually to let your system become accustomed to more acid slowly. In addition to HCL, you will also want to take probiotics, DGL, and make some nutritional adjustments. Please see our complete recommendation list below.
Please note- we do recommend you are monitored by a physician, and do not take hydrochloric acid you are also taking any anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin, Butazolidin, Inodicin, or Motrin.
Also, to learn more about this common problem and its treatment, you may want to read, Why Stomach Acid Is Good for You: Natural Cures for Heartburn and Indigestion, by William Campbell Douglas, M.D. (coauthored).
Supplement Recommendations for GERD:
1. HLC Probiotics, by Pharmax- use HLC High Potency powder, ¼- ½ tsp with meals and large snacks. Probiotics, particularly, L. Acidophilus restores acidity needed for reversing GERD.
2. Digestzymes, by DFH or pure Betaine HCL by DFH or Pharmax- start with 1 cap (750 mg Betaine HCL) with meals for 3 days, then increase by 1 or more caps gradually to a maximum dose of 3-4 grams with each meal. Cautionary note: Betaine HLC is contraindicated by ulcerative conditions.
3. Gastrosoothe by DFH- this excellent healing supplement contains licorice root (DGL), vitamin “u” from raw cabbage, and several other key nutrients. Licorice root and raw cabbage juice in particular have been utilized successfully by physicians and patients to treat GERD. This special supplement combines them into capsule form so you can benefit! Take 2 caps twice daily on an empty stomach. Cautionary Note: Licorice root is contraindicated by high blood pressure (HTN.)
4. Chew Xylitol Fruit gum- chewing gum causes a significant increase in salivary volume. Saliva is rich in esophago-protective factors, including epidermal growth factor, mucin, proteins and prostaglandin E2. Don’t chew gum which contains sugar, aspartame, or mint flavors- all of these can worsen GERD.
Other Lifestyle Recommendations:
1. Reduce all forms of sugar and processed starch.
2. Eliminate caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee- both can aggravate GERD.
3. Drink Chamomile or licorice tea to replace coffee. Don’t drink peppermint tea.
4. Reduce or eliminate alcohol. If you do drink, be sure to eat something beforehand.
5. If you smoke, stop.
6. Reduce or eliminate any foods which you are sensitive or allergic to, such as dairy, soy, etc.
7. Stop drinking soda.
8. Stop taking acid blockers/ antacids since these stop essential acid production and is often at the root of worsened cases of GERD. Drugs that reduce the risk of esophageal damage by blocking histamine, which helps trigger stomach acid secretion, are very effective but aren't recommended for long term use. These include Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet and Axid. Prilosec and Prevacid work by blocking the final pathway of acid secretion but shouldn't be used long-term either. Consult with your doctor before making changes to your medications.
9. Increase non starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and organic protein. Each plays a vital role in promoting healing. |
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