It’s Christmas time and we all know what that means don’t we! Christmas presents, parties, the food….. the reflux…. It’s not surprising that around Christmas and New Years, the number of people that come to our clinic with digestive issues and reflux goes through the roof. The only other time of year this happens is Easter. Chocolate eggs and plum puddings have a lot to answer for!

Reflux, though, is not something easily swallowed for a lot of people! Reflux and indigestion affects millions of people’s lives every day with one in ten adults experiencing reflux every single week. For some, the symptoms of reflux and indigestion may only be mild with only a slightly uncomfortable sensation in the stomach or the occasional regurgitation. For others the pain can be more severe and quite disruptive. Although the symptoms may be mild, your body may still be suffering damage.

Medically, the typical treatment for reflux is to prescribe antacids on the mistaken belief that the burning sensation of reflux indicates excess hydrochloric acid production in the stomach. In reality the opposite is true, and often the underproduction of hydrochloric acid may be a more accurate cause of reflux and other symptoms of indigestion (Wright).

In this article, we take a quick look at the common causes of reflux and look at some of the natural options that are available for treatment and more importantly prevention.

Simple Tips for Reducing Reflux

Tip 1: Watch The Coffee And Tea Intake

I know it’s getting near the end of the year and sometimes it is necessary for a little something to get through the day, however if you are one of those commonly affected by reflux, cutting back on the coffee and tea may improve your enjoyment of the Christmas season.

Caffeine is part of a group of stimulants known as Methylxanthines. While one of the functions of methylxanthines is to stimulate gastric production, something that may be beneficial for those with lower hydrochloric acid production, they are also known to result in a lowered muscle tone in the lower oesophageal sphincter (Fredholm BB), or put in another way, it leads to a slackening in the valve at the bottom of the oesophagus that can allow undigested food and stomach acid to come back up.

Unfortunately, energy drinks containing Guarana are also best off avoided, that includes the ones being marketed as healthy alternatives to coffee. Guarana has been quoted as having twice the amount of caffeine found in coffee beans, is it any wonder our kids are literally bouncing off the walls!

Tip 2: Restrict Alcohol Intake

Yes, I realise this may be a little harsh leading into the holiday season. But, it needs to be said! One of the best ways to reduce the burning of reflux, as well as the incidence of hangovers is to limit the intake of alcohol.

A number of studies have connected alcohol intake to an increased incidence of reflux. As with stimulants like coffee and Guarana, one reason this happens is due to the relaxation of the valve between the stomach and oesophagus. The consumption of alcohol also increases the length of time the reflux lasts (Pehl C, et. al.).

Alcohol also leads to reduced secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach (Kelly., G. ND). It is more commonly low hydrochloric acid production than excessive production that leads to reflux. One study, found inadequate hydrochloric acid production in over 65% of problem drinkers.

Tip 3: Increase Intake of Dietary Fibre

I strongly believe that most of us do not consume enough fibre in our diets. I’m not talking about the insoluble sort from grains, but rather the soluble, highly beneficial sort from green leafy vegetables and the skins / peel of fruit.

A cross-sectional study of over 300 respondents showed that a diet high in fibre showed a reduced incidence of reflux, regardless of BMI (El-Serag HB, Satia JA, Rabeneck L.). The fact BMI did not reduce the protective effect of high fibre intakes means that it is not likely to be a result of those with higher fibre diets leading an overall healthier lifestyle.

Boosting Hydrochloric Acid Production

We’ve touched on the important role of hydrochloric acid in this article a few times now. Our hydrochloric acid levels reduce as part of the ageing process, so how can we boost, or maintain this.

  • A number of herbs have been associated with improving hydrochloric acid production these include gentian, horseradish, meadow sweet and ginger. These are best used 10-15 minutes before meals and taken with as little water as possible;
  • Try swallowing a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a little warm water before a meal. It has been suggested that the vinegar helps to increase the acidity of the stomach;
  • Ensure some source of protein is consumed at each meal. Protein intake increases the production of hydrochloric acid.

Affected by Reflux and Want to Know More?

If you would like to know more about natural solutions to reflux and other digestive disorders contact our Naturopath today by email to info@www.passion4health.com.au.

We can help you to design a diet that will help repair and rebuild your digestive function and lead to a happier gustatory experience all round.

References

  • Kelly., G. ND. ‘Hydrochloric Acid: Physiological Functions and Clinical Implications.’ Alternative Medicine Review 2.2 (1997):116-127
  • El-Serag HB, Satia JA, Rabeneck L.. ‘Dietary intake and the risk of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a cross sectional study in volunteers.’ Gut 54(1) (2005):11-17
  • Fredholm BB. ‘Gastrointestinal and metabolic effects of methylxanthines.’ Prog Clin Biol Res 158 (1984):331-54
  • Pehl C, et. al.. ‘Effect of white wine on esophageal peristalsis and acid clearance..’ Scand J Gastroenterol 35(12) (2000):1255-9
  • Wright, J. V., MD. The Digestive Failure Theory of Aging II. Life Enhancement News. January 1998.
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