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Heartburn: How is it treated?

 Heartburn: How is it treated?

Heartburn occasionally affects approximately 30% of the population. The pain that occurs during GERD can interfere with daily activities. Here are some tips to help you calm them down.


Heartburn: How is it treated? : Understand everything in two minutes

What is it ?

Heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease) occurs when acid produced by the stomach backs up into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). But the gastric juices coming from the stomach are too acidic for the walls of the esophagus, causing pain, burning or irritation.


The lower esophageal sphincter is usually the cause of acidity. This is a muscle located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. Its function is to retain the gastric juice produced by the stomach. GERD can also be linked to a hiatal hernia. The part of the stomach near the esophagus then travels to the rib cage through the diaphragm, producing a sensation of pain.


The main symptoms appear especially after meals or when lying down:

A burning sensation "rising" behind the sternum. Doctors talk about a "burning sensation".

Acid regurgitation, which gives a bitter taste in the mouth.

Reflux can also lead to less frequent and more general symptoms:

Hoarse voice, especially in the morning

Chronic sore throat

Asthma occurs at night and has nothing to do with allergies

Chronic cough or frequent hiccups

nausea

Persistent bad breath

Dental problems (loss of tooth enamel).


What foods to choose and which ones to avoid?

Although there are no serious studies that prove a clear link between consumption of certain foods and heartburn, many people with these diseases have noticed worsening of symptoms after eating these foods.


Foods containing caffeine should be avoided, as they promote relaxation of the sphincter muscle. Therefore, you should refrain from consuming coffee, chocolate, tea and cola drinks. Other types of soft drinks should also be avoided, as they increase the risk of bloating and damage the sphincter. You should also limit the consumption of products rich in fats, since fats slow down the digestion process. Thus, food that remains in the stomach for a long time will have an effect in increasing the secretion of gastric juices. Avoid fatty meats, whole cheeses, pastries, cold cuts, etc.


Acidic and/or spicy foods should also be eaten in moderation. It tends to increase the acid already produced by the stomach and further inflames the walls of the esophagus. Citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit, orange, lemon) as well as mint, mint, and tomatoes are acidic foods and should be avoided.


Despite these many limitations, some foods and products can help you reduce heartburn. Plain water is one of them. Activates the secretion of saliva, which prepares the stomach for digestion.


Fibers found mainly in whole grains (wheat, oat bran, etc.) and fruits and vegetables (pears, pumpkin, potatoes, etc.) should be added to the menu. They protect the intestines and improve digestion. Foods rich in antioxidants also help fight heartburn.


Stop bad habits, and follow a healthy lifestyle

Say "no" to tobacco

Certain lifestyle habits increase the risk of heartburn, including smoking. Daily cigarette smoking significantly increases the risk of heartburn. In the smoker, the healing of lesions in the esophagus is slowed down by tobacco. The action of the sphincter is also affected.


Say "no" to alcohol

It is also necessary to limit the consumption of alcohol, which has the effect of increasing acid production in the stomach. If you want to drink an alcoholic drink, it is preferable to take an alcoholic drink during meals, in order to reduce the secretion of gastric juices.


Fighting overweight and obesity

Overweight and obesity are also risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Several studies have shown that losing weight if you are overweight or obese helps permanently reduce heartburn symptoms 1 .


Fight stress and tension

It might be easier said than done! In the case of heartburn, it is desirable to relieve stress and tension that aggravate the pain. If you're going through a particularly stressful situation, try relaxing with soothing music, a relaxation session, or a walk outside.


Herbs and herbs to fight heartburn

Various plants and herbs such as licorice, turmeric, or marshmallow can help reduce the pain associated with GERD.


Licorice

Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which has therapeutic effects. The effectiveness of this plant in treating digestive disorders and stomach ulcers has been proven by scientific research 2-3.


Simple measures to reduce symptoms

Small gestures applied daily can help reduce the pain associated with GERD.

During meals, avoid fatty dishes and fatty foods and focus on light foods. According to some studies, foods high in fat increase heartburn 1 . It is best to eat smaller meals more frequently. It is also necessary to take the time to chew the food well, so as not to overload the stomach and promote digestion.


Plan your last meal 3-4 hours before bedtime. Lying down helps with gastroesophageal reflux disease. By allowing your stomach enough time to start the digestion process, you will avoid these inconveniences.


If the pain persists during the night despite these precautions, raise your head about 15 cm during sleep. You can use multiple pillows or use a foam block depending on what gives you the most comfort.


Dosage:

Dried roots: 5 g to 15 g per day 3 times daily, to be taken after each meal as a powder, infusion or decoction (2 g to 5 g in 150 ml of water).

Total liquid extract 1 g/ml: 2ml to 4ml, 3 times a day, after eating.

Total dry extract 6 g/g: 330 mg to 800 mg 3 times a day after meals.


Diglycyrrhizinide-DGL Extract: This extract, from which glycyrrhizin has been removed, is primarily used to treat gastric or duodenal ulcers as well as enteritis. Chew 1-2 tablets 3 times a day, 20 minutes before meals. In the event of an acute attack of a stomach or duodenal ulcer, take 2 to 4 tablets, 3 times a day, 20 minutes before meals.


Turmeric

Turmeric also helps fight digestive disorders. Some of the substances in turmeric, curcuminoids, have a powerful antioxidant effect. Among these antioxidants benefits attributed to turmeric.


Dosage:

Dried dried rhizome. Take 1.5 g to 3 g (1 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon) daily, which is equivalent to about 60 mg to 200 mg of curcuminoids.


a leak. Pour 1 gram to 1.5 grams of rhizome powder in 150 ml of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink two cups a day.


Fluid extract: Take 1.5ml to 3ml daily.

Tincture: Take 10 ml daily.

marshmallow

Marshmallow is known for its laxative properties that help treat various types of inflammation and irritation, and it is a plant that is high in pectin and mucilage. These compounds clear the mucous membrane of the digestive tract by protecting the tissues from acidity.


Dosage:

Consume a cup of boiling water (200 ml) containing 2 g of dried marshmallow root.

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