Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder that occurs when hydrochloric acid, which is used by the stomach to digest food, repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time, while some experience it regularly.

Chronic GERD is a condition thought to be a result of improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Normally, the esophageal sphincter muscle pinches itself shut, preventing stomach acid from surging upward. However, if the LES is not functioning properly, the acid can slip past it and enter the esophagus. Left untreated, GERD may worsen and can develop into Barrett’s Esophagus, which is a condition associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. 

In the past, doctors have treated GERD with histamine (H2) blockers, such as ranitidine However, because of the potential for increased cancer risk, the FDA does not think it’s safe to continue taking ranitidine products, and in 2020, it requested that manufacturers withdraw all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) ranitidine drugs from the market.

The medications doctors frequently recommend to treat GERD are proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s). However, these medications are not meant for long term use and may worsen GERD symptoms over time, due to rebound acid secretion. Rebound acid secretion occurs when your body produces more stomach acid than before treatment. There is also emerging evidence of long-term adverse effects, including increased risk of kidney, liver, and cardiovascular disease, dementia, enteroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, susceptibility to respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, and impaired absorption of nutrients. 

Additionally, a decrease in serum magnesium (hypomagnesemia) has been reported as a side effect of PPI’s. It seems that PPI’s affect the gastrointestinal absorption of magnesium. Low magnesium levels may cause symptoms from several systems, some of which being potentially serious, such as tetany, seizures, and arrhythmias.

The good news is there are alternative safe and natural treatments for GERD. These include:

Lifestyle Changes

The first step in reducing GERD is often to avoid or at least limit foods that set off reflux. Trigger foods differ from person to person but often include chocolate, citrus foods, tomato-based foods, coffee, fried and fatty foods, peppermint, spicy foods, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.

Other lifestyle changes include avoiding lying down for at least two hours after a meal. This can help to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. Also, keep your head elevated while you sleep. Using an extra pillow or two can also help to prevent reflux.

Eat smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day instead of a few large meals. This promotes digestion and can aid in preventing acid reflux. Wear loose-fitting clothing to ease pressure on the stomach, which can worsen acid reflux. If you’re overweight, reducing excess weight around the midsection can ease pressure on the stomach. Such pressure can force some stomach contents back up the esophagus. Don’t smoke.

Licorice Root (DGL)

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a soothing, anti-inflammatory herb belonging to the Leguminosae (legume) family. It is often used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, acid reflux, and upset stomach. In a study involving 50 adults with GERD, a low dose of glycyrrhetinic acid resulted in significant improvements in symptoms.

Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe juice is soothing to the digestive tract due to its anti-inflammatory properties.. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Because of this, the juice is said to detoxify the body when taken internally. It also boosts digestion and eliminates waste.

Nature’s Way Acid-Ease

Nature’s Way Acid-Ease was specifically designed for individuals with digestive sensitivity. Taken with or between meals as needed, Acid-Ease combines active digestive enzymes with gamma oryzanol (found in rice bran), slippery elm bark, and marshmallow root extract to ease the affects of GERD by providing digestive support.

Do not take Acid Ease if you are currently taking a product containing slippery elm and marshmallow root extract. Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking this product.

Papaya

Consuming papaya can help reduce the occurrence of acid reflux. Papaya contains enzymes such as papain that aid digestion and help break down proteins. Eating ripe papaya or drinking papaya juice can support healthy digestion and reduce symptoms of GERD. Papaya can also be purchased in supplement form.

From my own personal experience, regular consumption of DGL and aloe vera juice twice daily seems to be the most effective treatment for symptoms of GERD. However, everyone is different, and it may take some experimentation to see what works.

Looking at the Big Picture

Research suggests chronic constipation occurs in about 29% of people with GERD, although from my experience, that number may be much higher. A 2015 study noted that GERD occurs along with other gastrointestinal motility disorders which affect the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract, including constipation. The study authors suggested that treating constipation may also help clear GERD symptoms. Gastroparesis can be another contributing factor, as it is estimated that 53% of patients with gastroparesis also have constipation. When you view the entire digestive system as one would think about household plumbing, it’s easy to understand how sluggish areas could disrupt the entire sytem.

Do not take supplements while pregnant or nursing. Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement to determine any potential drug interactions.