Acid Indigestion and GERD

As many as 30% of Americans suffer from acid indigestion and/or Gastric Esophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD). These are actually two distinct disorders although they are often confused and sometimes overlap with one another.

Acid indigestion is experienced as a burning sensation or pain in the abdomen, just below the ribs. People who have this discomfort after eating assume they are producing too much stomach acid and seek relief from over-the-counter medication designed to neutralize excess stomach acid. But in fact, very few people actually produce too much stomach acid. In most cases, the problem is a deficiency in the protective mucous lining of the stomach. Without the proper protection, the underlying stomach tissue is exposed to stomach acid which causes discomfort or possibly the formation of an ulcer in extreme cases.

On the other hand, GERD (also known as acid reflux or heartburn) is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, creating a burning sensation higher up, in the pit of the stomach, under the ribs or in the chest. Left untreated, GERD can lead to serious and potentially life threatening complications.

Some people develop GERD because they have a weakened lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES) due to age or because of a hiatal hernia, which occurs when part of the stomach gets caught above the diaphragm. Specific foods can exacerbate GERD by weakening the LES or by stimulating acid production (see list below). Smoking and stress can also contribute to the problem.

Whether you suffer from acid indigestion or GERD, acupuncture can be extremely helpful in reducing or eliminating symptoms. In addition, the following dietary and lifestyle recommendations will be helpful in most cases.

Acid Indigestion

One or two ounces of pure Aloe Vera juice, taken several times a day, will help to heal the stomach lining and reduce inflammation.
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) tablets. Whole Licorice root is a wonderful herb but it has one component (glycyrrhizin) which increases blood pressure. This component has been removed from DGL tablets which can be found in most health food stores or natural groceries. Chewing one or two tablets 15 minutes before a meal will help to increase the mucous protection in the stomach lining and regulate the stomach acid production.
Avoid or reduce chocolate, coffee, alcohol, fried or greasy foods, hot or spicy foods, citrus fruit (unless ripe and sweet), tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, chili sauce, vinegar, ibuprofen, aspirin and tobacco.
Drink plenty of room temperature water throughout the day.

Gastric Esophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD)

Eat slowly and chew your food well. Avoid over eating and never eat when tense or hurried. Better to eat smaller, more frequent meals. The saliva is alkaline and will help to neutralize any excess stomach acid. Also, eating slowly allows the stomach an opportunity to begin the digestive process and move the food into the duodenum. This one recommendation will do a great deal to alleviate painful symptoms for many people.
Avoid or dramatically reduce chocolate, coffee, alcohol, fried foods, hot or spicy foods, carbonated beverages, citrus fruit, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, chili sauce, vinegar, peppermint, spearmint, ibuprofen, aspirin and tobacco. Not everyone responds to these foods in the same way. Keep a daily journal. By documenting your food intake and symptoms, you can identify which foods are a problem for you.
Avoid lying down immediately after eating. Allow at least two to three hours for food to digest before bedtime. Many people find it helpful to elevate the head of the bed four to six inches.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight is a key factor for GERD.
Avoid lifting, bending, or stooping after eating.
An ounce or two of Aloe Vera juice, with a pinch of baking soda, after meals can be a good home remedy for GERD.
Papayas or papaya juice with 2 pinches of cardamom is another helpful preventative for GERD.

Precautionary Note
If you experience GERD more than twice a week, it is important to seek treatment. Consult with your health care professional before using home remedies alone to control symptoms.