Acid Reflux

acid-reflux Q: I suffer from terrible acid reflux - any advice?

A: Acid reflux is caused by a weakness in the musculature at the lower end of the food pipe and in the stomach being weak. It is usually due to either a hiatus hernia, an over-filling of the stomach or intra-abdominal fat putting pressure on the stomach.

If you are over weight then try to get your weight down.

If you have a hiatus hernia toning of the diaphragm is vitally important. Specific Yoga breathing techniques helps to tone the diaphragm.
Alcohol, smoking, caffeine and refined sugars all increase stomach acid production try to avoid them.

Food allergies also weaken musculature get yourself checked out.
Herbs : Slippery elm and Aloe vera provide a soothing action. Goldenseal, Peppermint and Ginger provide relief for heartburn and indigestion.

Digestive enzymes but must be supervised if you have had a history of Peptic ulcers.

Homoeopathic remedies: taken 3 x daily in a 3c potency : Nux Vom for sour, bitter belchings with flatulence; Carbo veg for rancid and sour belching, heaviness, fullness and sleepiness; Lycopodium for belching that rises to the pharynx with bloating and noisy flatulence.

For further information on acid reflux please visit the ICIM Medics on www.icim.ie or tel. 045 844 819.