happens when acid from the stomach leaks back up through the oesophagus
(gullet), irritating the delicate lining of the oesophagus, resulting in
a burning pain across the front of the chest (acid reflux).
Normally the sphincter, a muscle between the oesophagus and stomach,
tightens up to stop food and stomach acid coming back up out of the
stomach. Acid reflux happens when the sphincter does not work
effectively, or when the stomach is very full (for example, after a
large meal). Note that because your stomach empties into your duodenum
(the top part of your small intestine), fluids from your duodenum can
also become part of reflux. DGER, or duodenogastro-oesophageal reflux,
involves these intestinal fluids, including bile salts; "alkaline
reflux" or "bile reflux" are the older names for this condition.
When reflux occurs frequently the lining of the oesophagus can become
damaged, a condition known as Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
has developed. A number of circumstances can result in acid reflux.
Smoking relaxes the sphincter, increasing the risk of getting heartburn.
Similarly certain foods, in susceptible individuals, can relax the
sphincter; the most common culprits are oranges and other citrus fruits,
chocolate and fatty foods, while coffee and tomatoes can directly
irritate the oesophagus.
Acid reflux can also happen when there is a lot of pressure on your
stomach forcing the stomach contents out and back up into the
oesophagus; constipation, pregnancy, obesity, tight clothing and bending
all cause such pressure. Some medications, including aspirin and
ibuprofen, can cause heartburn.
Treatment of Heartburn
There are several different types of medications used for heartburn,
each works in a different way. Over-the-counter antacids (e.g. Rennie)
neutralise the stomach acids, histamine H2 blockers (e.g. Zantac 75)
interfere with the production of acid, and proton pump inhibitors (PPI)
suppress molecules in the glands responsible for the release of acid.
Calcium and magnesium are natural antacids and form the basis of the
Rennie formula.
Recent research indicates that prolonged use of PPI medication can
deplete vitamin B12 levels regardless of whether an RDA level supplement
is also used.
Natural Prevention and Management
The easiest way to prevent heartburn is to avoid foods that trigger it
off, which varies with the individual. Eat slowly, eat smaller, more
regular meals if you are susceptible. Do not lie down or exercise soon
after food and try not to eat or drink within 2-3 hours of going to bed.
Some more difficult preventative measures include losing weight and
avoiding stress.
Some people may find reducing acid forming foods helps; these include
eggs, meat, fish, coffee, yoghurt, cranberries, plums and prunes. Some
foods associated with heartburn (notably oranges and chocolate) are in
fact alkaline forming. It is important to remember that there are two
types of reflux, where the stomach contents are too acidic you get acid
reflux, where stomach contents are not acidic enough (too alkaline) you
get alkaline reflux.
For a natural alternative to antacids try a calcium and magnesium
supplement. Liquorice with the glycyrrhizin removed is famed for its
ability to prevent and help heal gastric ulcers, a potential
complication of acid reflux; try 250-500mg 3 times daily.
From the Nutri Newsletter
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