GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease), also known as acid reflux, affects many people worldwide. Antacids, over-the-counter remedies, and doctor-prescribed medications are known to be effective and have proven beneficial to many. However, there are those who prefer to use a more natural solution and many have turned to apple cider vinegar.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux disease occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, known as the LES, malfunctions, causing stomach contents and other liquids to climb back up the esophagus. Stomach contents contain hydrochloric acid and the liquids contain pepsin, which is an enzyme produced in the stomach. Hydrochloric acid burns the esophagus, and pepsin digests the proteins in the esophagus, all of which results in heartburn, or acid reflux.
Many people experience occasional heartburn, but others are plagued weekly, even daily, by it. Acid reflux disease can become harmful to one's health if the esophageal lining is destroyed, which can occur if acid reflux persists and is not treated. If symptoms of acid reflux persist or becomes more frequent, it is time to see a doctor.
Treatment for Symptoms of GERD
Antacids are a common treatment for acid reflux. However, because antacids neutralize the acid in the body, the body must then produce more acid. Once the antacids wear off, the excess acid in the body results in worsening acid reflux.
Prescription medications vary, and treat certain aspects of acid reflux. Proton pump inhibitors and histamine receptor blockers aid in reducing acid production in the stomach, which help to control reflux of acid into the esophagus, and also reduce stomach acid. Prokinetic or motility drugs, and Omepraxole and lansoprazole help in closing the esophageal sphincter muscle and heal inflammation in the esophagus which is caused by acid reflux.
In a December 27, 2006 The Journal of the American Medical Association article "Long-Term Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy and Risk of Hip Fracture", Drs. Yang, Lewis, and Metz conclude that "long- term PPI therapy (Proton Pump Inhibitor), particularly at high doses, is associated with an increased risk of hip fracture."
Studies such as these causes concern that prolonged used of prescription medications may cause side effects, and raise the risk of developing other health-related problems.
Apple Cider Vinegar a Natural Alternative
Vinegar is produced through a process called fermentation, and apple cider vinegar comes from crushed apples. Its components include acetic acid, other acids, vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
It seems odd that apple cider vinegar, which contains acetic acid, can successfully fight reflux-producing hydrochoric acid; however, according to Suzy Cohen in the December 2008 The Best of Times article "Medical Myths Unveiled", some people who experience heartburn may not have enough digestive acid. This is why apple cider vinegar helps. Because it is acidic, when the esophagael sphincter senses the acid, it closes the LES to protect the esophagus from the acid reflux. If there is too little acid. the LES will open periodically.
It is best to use raw organic apple cider vinegar. To use, take two tablespoons before each meal. Apple cider vinegar should always be diluted with eight ounces of water. Along with apple cider vinegar, it is also beneficial to modify one's diet. Avoiding spicy and fatty foods, eating five or six smaller meals each day instead of three large meals, and refraining from lying down right after eating are only a few steps one can take to minimize acid reflux.
Apple cider vinegar can be found in supermarkets and health food stores. The cost is minimal, around $4 or $5 a bottle.
As with many natural medications, apple cider vinegar works best when used over time, so one must be patient and not expect this alternative to work the very first time used. Over a period of time, the effects of apple cider vinegar will become apparent.
What are the Risks of Using Apple Cider Vinegar?
The acetic acid ingredient in apple cider vinegar causes a harsh taste, and drinking pure apple cider vinegar may damage tooth enamel as well as the tissues in your mouth. For these reasons, it is important to always dilute apple cider vinegar with water or juice before ingesting.
Acid reflux, or GERD, can be a serious ailment. If symptoms of acid reflux present itself more than twice a week, consult a healthcare professional who will be able to help with treatment options. Be sure to consult a healthcare professional before using alternative treatment options as some natural medicines may interfere with prescription medications or affect other health conditions.
Sources:webmd.com, "Healthy Eating & Diet: Apple Cider Vinegar" (Accessed April 27, 2010)
jama.org (Accessed April 27, 2010)
mandarinconsulting.com "Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Reflux Cure" (Accessed April 27, 2010)
issuu.com, "Medical Myths Unveiled" (Accessed April 27, 2010)
Valerie Williams - Valerie Williams resides in the Metro-Atlanta area. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management, and has spent much ...
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