GERD, which is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic illness characterized by frequent acid reflux -- a condition in which your esophagus opens spontaneously or fails to close properly. Symptoms of GERD may include belching, gas, nausea, vomiting, chronic cough, sore throat or chest pain. Curcumin, the active ingredient in the herb turmeric, provides potent antioxidant benefits and may help reduce symptoms of GERD. Discuss use of natural remedies with your doctor before altering your lifestyle.
Function
While not considered a cure or sole effective treatment form for GERD, you may add curcumin to your diet to reduce symptoms. Curcumin has the ability to reduce inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and may ease digestion and reduce digestive symptoms such as gas and bloating. Curcumin is also used for its antioxidant, or toxin and disease-fighting effects.
Effectiveness
Though research is limited regarding the effectiveness of curcumin for GERD treatment, it may provide benefits. Most studies that support the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin have been conducted on animals, according to the Linus Pauling Institute, or LPI, at Oregon State University, which makes it difficult to determine whether humans reap similar results. LPI also suggests that though consuming turmeric on a daily basis can effectively reduce toxic substances in your body and strengthen your immune system, antioxidants such as vitamin E are more potent. Research published in "Gastroenterology" in May 2010 involving 14 patients with GERD, showed a positive correlation between daily curcumin intake and reduced need for GERD medications. After consuming 2g of curcumin per day in place of medications for 2 weeks, 11 of 14 patients demonstrated improved symptoms.
Available Forms
The potential benefits of curcumin can be reaped by incorporating dried or fresh turmeric into your dishes, drinking turmeric-enhanced tea or by use of dietary supplements. Indian and Thai curry dishes often contain curcumin. If you find that hot or spicy foods trigger reflux or other GERD symptoms, request that dishes be prepared with mild spiciness. You may also incorporate curcumin into soups, stews, omelets, stir fries and other dishes in your home. Since curry powder contains substantially less turmeric than dried turmeric, according to the LPI, use fresh turmeric most often. Curcumin supplements contain extracts of the herb and, in some cases, additional herbs or ingredients used to enhance absorption.
Precautions
Curcumin should not replace doctor-recommended treatment forms. Since dietary supplements are not upheld to the same safety and effectiveness standards as drugs in the United States, seek guidance from your doctor before taking curcumin extract. The spice form of curcumin has not been tested for safety in pregnant women, according to the LPI. Curcumin supplements may interact with medications, such as apsirin, and may increase your risk for gallstones if you have personal history of the condition.
