Whether you prefer to call it acid reflux, GERD or simply indigestion; the problem is quite uncomfortable, potentially harmful to health, and growing. Chronic We’re finding that even children and babies can be chronically affected these days.
Virtually all the reflux medications on the market either work to reduce or neutralize hydrochloric acid in the stomach, or they turn off the pumps that produce it altogether. The problem is that we cannot digest our food properly once this happens, no matter how fresh and healthy that food is.
You see, hydrochloric acid is produced so that when our well-chewed, liquefied food reaches the stomach, the proteins can be separated from the rest of the contents, to allow for proper absorption of all nutrients in the intestinal tract.
Hydrochloric acid also acts as a protective barrier to kill dozens of potentially harmful microorganisms that ride in with our food and water. When we turn off the acid production, we’ve opened the doors to a profusion of characters that may do us harm.
And here is a little known fact, the majority of indigestion sufferers may have insufficient stomach acid, rather than excess stomach acid. When doctors perform the Heidelberg capsule test on reflux sufferers to check for excess hydrochloric acid, the results show that as many as 90% actually have an insufficient quantity to properly digest the proteins contained in a typical meal. Few are shown to have too much stomach acid.
It can be very confusing for the layperson, and doctors rarely do any testing before writing a prescription for the latest version of reflux medication. This is unfortunate, since the symptoms of excess hydrochloric acid production and insufficient production are virtually identical. It is therefore essential for our ability to properly absorb nutrients, to be tested properly before taking your next step. Please contact me if you’d like to understand more about these tests, and what to do to optimize your digestive health.
There is a simple home test that any of us may safely perform when we are feeling symptoms of indigestion. (Please note that those who suffer with a hiatal hernia may not experience the same results from these home tests as others will.)
We can mix a teaspoon or two of baking soda (bicarbonate) into a small glass of water and drink it down the next time we feel indigestion coming on. If the baking soda neutralizes the excess acid, then you will know that you experience excess hydrochloric acid. If you don’t experience significant relief right away, or you feel even worse, then you will realize that you have insufficient hydrochloric acid.
You may then want to test for insufficient acid with another simple test. Purchase a bottle of organic apple cider vinegar, and when indigestion begins, mix 1-2 TBSP into a glass of water and sip. Nearly everyone will find relief with this test, so you may actually want to do this one first!
More helpful strategies:
- Don’t drink water, milk, alcohol or soda with your meal, unless the food is very dry or charred. This can dilute the hydrochloric acid and enzymes necessary for proper digestion. To prevent thirst while eating, drink a refreshing glass of water 15-30 minutes before your meals. Wait one hour after eating to enjoy another beverage.
- Eat properly fermented whole foods daily, such as whole milk organic yogurt or kefir, sauerkraut, pickled beets or daikon, miso, tempeh, kimchee, or a variety of others.
- Reduce your overall sugar and flour intake. Flour and sugar may be significant contributors to the discomforts of indigestion.
- Eat your vegetables! More roots, sea vegetables and dark leafy greens help to alkalize the body, and an alkaline body experiences better digestion.
- Chew your food well. Our food should be a fine liquid with no chunks before we swallow. This usually takes upwards of 50 or 60 chews per bite. Most Americans, however, chew between six and ten times per bite, and swallow their food with larger pieces intact. This makes it impossible for your digestive tract to break it down completely.
- Sit down, with your feet in front of you, when you eat. Sitting encourages the digestive processes.
- Relax. Don’t eat on the run, or while angry or upset. Before eating, try taking a few deep breaths. The difference will likely impress you.
Next, let’s discuss the herbs and nutritional supplements that may provide significant digestive relief without dangerous side effects, according to dozens of studies and billions of users throughout the world.
Ginger, preferably certified organic, is well known for its effect on virtually all aspects of digestive health. It can be taken before, during or after meals. Ginger, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, also helps prevent gas, soothes intestinal discomfort and supports eliminative regularity. I suggest choosing organic ginger whenever possible because commercially grown ginger is treated with dozens of chemicals.
Using a little fresh ginger with each meal works wonders. If you prefer a supplement, look for Herb Pharm’s tincture or New Chapter’s Ginger Force, a tiny softgel. When I travel, I always bring ginger capsules. They serve triple duty, helping me with digestion, inflammation and motion sickness.
Bitters, served at most fine restaurants throughout Europe, may be sipped after eating to improve digestion. My favorite bitters are made here in Vermont by Urban Moonshine. Swedish bitters can also be helpful.
Enzymes – Good digestive function relies on the body’s ability to produce digestive enzymes. Enzymes are used to release specific nutrients. Protease enzymes prepare proteins for absorption; lipase works on fatty acids (good fats), lactase breaks down milk sugars, etc. Taking digestive enzymes with meals assists digestion when we’re compromised.
Although there are hundreds of enzyme products on the market, there are few of excellent quality. My favorites are made by Enzymedica and Renew Life.
Peppermint and other mint varieties, help settle the tummy when indigestion rears its ugly head. If you have only occasional, mild discomfort, using peppermint may fit your needs. It’s soothing for children, too.
Probiotics are very important for digestive health. The problem is that most probiotics on the market are of poor quality, including most of the best-sellers and the very expensive ones. If you want long lasting, optimal benefits, look for any of the probiotics produced by Natren, New Chapter, Bio-K Plus, or the Udo’s Choice line made by Flora Health.
As you can see, there are lots of ways to experience natural relief for your family’s tummy discomfort. Since all of these options are very safe and provide other health benefits too, see what works best for your needs!
