Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a very common illness that affects about 60 percent of adults. It is caused when the contents of the stomach passively reflux up into the esophagus (the hollow tube that begins just past the back of the throat and extends down to the top of the stomach).
Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, acid regurgitation, indigestion, belching, hoarseness, cough and bad breath.
It's important to treat GERD because it can cause the cells that line the esophagus to undergo changes that may lead to cancer. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to prevent GERD, including many effective alternative treatments.
Prevention
The first step in addressing GERD is avoiding foods and activities that can exacerbate the condition. Since reclining can worsen symptoms, be sure to finish all meals and snacks at least two hours before lying down to allow time for complete digestion. Also, allow at least two hours after eating before exercising, since movements during exercise can aggravate GERD.
Obesity often worsens symptoms of GERD, so weight loss may be beneficial for those who are overweight. GERD is also worse during pregnancy so pregnant women will definitely want to take preventative measures.
Certain foods are known to aggravate GERD including coffee, tomatoes, milk, alcohol, chocolate, spicy foods, citrus and mint. High fat and large meals are more likely to cause GERD symptoms, so keep portions small and emphasize a low fat diet. Tobacco is also known to be aggravating to people with GERD.
Additionally, there is a long list of medications that can aggravate GERD. Ask a doctor to see if the medication(s) you are taking could be causing or worsening your GERD symptoms.
Herbal Remedies
There are a variety of effective natural and alternative remedies for GERD. Herbs can be helpful to soothe irritated esophageal tissue. They can be taken in the form of tinctures (liquid extracts), teas, or capsules.
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) is effective in soothing an irritated esophagus. Take 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. in water before meals, or find over-the-counter chewable DGL and take 1 to 2 before a meal. Slippery elm is another botanical that is soothing to the esophagus. It's best taken in the form of a gruel that can be made by mixing ½ tsp. slippery elm powder with ¼ cup cold water. Make a paste out of this mixture and then add one cup of boiling water. After it cools, you can drink the mixture one time per day.
Chamomile, marshmallow and calendula are all herbs that can be steeped and made into teas which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and soothe irritated tissue.
Diet
A diet high in antioxidants is helpful in preventing GERD from progressing to a more serious condition. Brightly colored fruits and veggies, green tea and antioxidant supplements can all be helpful. A great way to start your day with a high dose of antioxidants is to have a smoothie with your breakfast. Use 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, five fresh or frozen strawberries, one fresh banana, and 1.5 cups juice or milk of your choice. Remember that OJ and cow's milk may worsen GERD, so choose an alternative to those.
A high fiber diet is also know to alleviate symptoms of GERD, especially in pregnant women. Beans are a great source of fiber. Also, leave the skin on your veggies and fruits (like apples and potatoes) to up the fiber content.
Conclusion
GERD is a bothersome and potentially serious condition that affects millions of people. As always, ask your health care provider which treatment is best suited for you.
References
- Medical facts and stats about GERD
- "Medical Herbalism" by David Hoffman; Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT, 2003
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