Acid reflux, commonly called heartburn, occurs when stomach acid rises up into the esophagus, causing discomfort, a burning sensation or pain in the chest or throat. If you experience acid reflux, you know firsthand how aggravating it can be. One form of calcium is good for stopping acid reflux, and several antacid products contain it. Consult a qualified health care provider before taking antacids.
Acid Reflux
Technically called gastroesophageal reflux, acid reflux occurring on an occasional basis is common, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. It happens when the lower esophageal sphincter opens for no functional reason or does not close properly, allowing stomach acid to wash upward. Calcium carbonate absorbs and neutralizes stomach acid and can help with infrequent acid reflux.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is available as a capsule, tablet, chewable tablet and liquid. Some antacid brands include Alka-2, Maalox, Mylanta and Tums. Calcium carbonate generally has a protective effect for two or three hours when taken with food or for 30 to 60 minutes when taken on an empty stomach, reports Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. You can take calcium carbonate before going to bed if you're having acid reflux problems during the night. Check the product label, as some antacids contain magnesium or aluminum in addition to calcium.
Calcium as Essential Mineral
Calcium carbonate not only is a good antacid but functions as a calcium supplement as well. That's important because many people don't get enough calcium from their diets, comments Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Adequate calcium intake is necessary for a healthy heart and nervous system and for healthy bones, teeth and muscles. Adults generally need 1,000 mg to 1,200 mg of calcium per day, as established by the Food and Nutrition Board.
Considerations
Acid reflux occurring more than twice a week is considered to be gastroesophageal reflux disease, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. If you have frequent acid reflux, consult your doctor rather than taking calcium carbonate antacids on a regular basis. Frequent acid reflux can eventually lead to serious health problems, such as erosion of the esophagus. Your doctor can prescribe medication that you take only once or twice a day and that more effectively reduces stomach acid. Also, consuming too much calcium can cause negative effects, some serious. The tolerable upper intake level set by the Food and Nutrition Board for people 19 to 50 years old is 2,500 mg per day, and for those over 50, 2,000 mg per day.
