heartburn Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Heartburn Drugs Linked to Kidney Damage in 50% of Patients with No Warning Signs

The AHA! Team — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:23:04 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Major warning about heartburn drugs: The problems can develop “silently” Heartburn medications like Prevacid, Nexium, and Prilosec are widely used by Americans with acid reflux. Up to 50 percent of sufferers turn to these drugs. With the backing of big pharma, these brand names have become synonymous with relief for many. Currently, around 7% to 15% of the U.S. population, regardless of age or gender, regularly uses proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs are commonly prescribed to treat reflux and heartburn by reducing stomach acid, and millions more buy them over the counter. However, emerging research links long-term PPI use to potential kidney damage, a serious condition that can develop quietly, often without noticeable symptoms. Major warning about heartburn drugs: The problems can develop “silently” In a five-year study of 125,000 patients published in Kidney International, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found that more than half of the cases of chronic kidney damage and end-stage renal damage occurred in people without any previous record of kidney problems. According to senior study author Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, assistant professor of medicine at Washington University School of Medicine, the study showed that kidney problems in patients taking PPIs could develop silently and gradually over time, eroding kidney function and leading to long-term kidney damage or even renal failure. End-stage renal disease is the failure of kidneys to remove waste from the body, necessitating either dialysis or a kidney transplant. Dr. Al-Aly warned that doctors must carefully monitor kidney function in patients taking PPIs – including lansoprazole, omeprazole, and esomeprazole – even when there are no signs or symptoms of damage. The study also evaluated 18,436 new users of another type of heartburn medication: histamine H2 receptor antagonists, or H2 blockers. While H2 blockers don’t work as well on heartburn, researchers found they are less likely to cause kidney problems. Additional studies confirm researchers’ disturbing findings An earlier study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology also showed that long-term use of heartburn medications is associated with kidney damage, with PPI users 28 percent more likely to experience chronic kidney disease and a shocking 96 percent more likely to develop kidney failure. The longer the drugs were taken, the higher the risk. The daily dosage also affects risk. In a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the team found that twice-a-day users of PPIs tripled their risk over people who took a single daily dose. The research team called for using PPIs only when “medically necessary” and limiting the duration of the treatment as well. Lead author Dr. Morgan Grams, assistant professor of epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University, pointed out that up to 70 percent of acid reflux prescriptions are handed out “inappropriately” – and he estimated that a full 25 percent of long-term users could stop taking the medication without suffering increased heartburn or acid reflux. Of course, stemming the flow of prescribed PPIs will do nothing to reduce the number of people buying – and taking – these medications over the counter. And, the damage from PPIs isn’t limited to the kidneys. PPIs affect the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals PPIs interfere with the body’s ability to extract vitamin B12, an essential nutrient, from foods. Studies have shown that 75 percent of PPI users are deficient in vitamin B12 – compared to 11 percent among the general non-using population. PPIs can cause dramatic declines in blood magnesium levels, characterized by symptoms of fatigue, unsteadiness, numbness and tingling, seizures, and heart arrhythmias. As if that weren’t enough, PPIs can also lead to poor calcium absorption, raising the risk of bone fracture – especially in older patients. In addition, PPI users are more likely to be obese and have high blood pressure. PPIs are also associated with higher rates of pneumonia and C. difficile, a potentially dangerous bacterial infection. And finally, a German study showed that older adults who take proton pump inhibitors have a 44 percent increased chance of developing dementia. Natural solutions exist for acid reflux Many natural health experts point out that heartburn typically results from too little stomach acid rather than too much – and that PPIs can actually worsen the problem. You may be able to ease heartburn and acid reflux with simple dietary and lifestyle changes – such as avoiding fried, fatty, and processed foods, eating smaller meals, chewing food well, and avoiding smoking and excessive drinking. Eating healthy amounts of vegetables and high-quality organic, unprocessed foods can help restore natural gastric balance, while consuming fermented foods – such as sauerkraut, miso soup, and kimchi – can help eliminate the H. pylori bacterium that can contribute to reflux. Natural, time-honored remedies for heartburn include unfiltered apple cider vinegar, baking soda, ginger root tea, chamomile tea, and slippery elm. Of course, you shouldn’t stop or substitute any prescribed medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider. The best advice on PPIs comes from Dr. Kenneth DeVault, president of the American College of Gastroenterology, “If you don’t need these medications, you shouldn’t take them,” advises DeVault. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to take better care of your liver, kidneys and metabolic health, own the “Best Value” package of the Fatty Liver Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Pharmacytimes.com Medicine.washu.edu Kidney-international.org Sciencedaily.com Sciencedaily.com To read the original article click here.

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“Calm Down” Heartburn with this Natural Plant-Based Compound

The AHA! Team — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:57:11 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – With its spiky purple flowers and dull green leaves, milk thistle may appear to be nothing more than an ordinary weed growing wild in vacant lots and fields. Featuring ridged gray bark and deep green leaves, the slippery elm tree is a common presence in the hardwood forests of North America. But in its inner bark lies a secret. Holistic doctors believe that compounds from this ordinary-looking tree may offer an extraordinary gift – the ability to relieve the digestive complaint known as acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Slippery elm, treasured in indigenous American healing systems as a remedy for digestive upsets, has also attracted the attention of contemporary scientists. In a new report from the National Institutes of Health, researchers gave slippery elm a “thumbs-up” for its absence of adverse effects in clinical studies. To learn how this natural compound can help to safely and effectively quench the “fire inside,” read on. SHOCKING: 40 percent of all Americans experience GERD at least once a week GERD results from a backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus, which causes the classic burning sensation in the throat and upper chest. You may also experience nausea, difficulty swallowing, sour taste, and coughing. Unfortunately, GERD is extremely common. In a review published in 2022 in Nutrients, the authors cited a Cedars-Sinai study showing that an astonishing two out of every five Americans have GERD-like symptoms at least once a week. Western medicine often attempts to treat GERD with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, which is marketed under the brand name Prilosec. However, PPIs can feature toxic side effects. Long-term use heightens the risk of magnesium deficiencies, bone fractures, shortfalls in vitamin B-12, kidney disease, and intestinal infections. With consequences such as these, it’s no wonder that an increasing number of people with GERD are turning to natural interventions – such as slippery elm – for relief. Formula featuring slippery elm shows significant promise in combating GERD In an Australian clinical trial published in Nutritional Research, 12 weeks of slippery elm combined with curcumin, aloe vera, and other herbs significantly improved the frequency and severity of indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain in GERD patients. The participants also reported improved quality of life, higher energy levels, and better sleep quality. For good measure, the herbal formula improved the health of the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus. Amazingly, by the study’s end, almost half the participants taking proton pump inhibitors for heartburn no longer required their medication. A sizable portion of the volunteers (about 33 percent) were even able to reintroduce common GERD “triggers” such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and caffeine into their diets. Although more studies can always be helpful, the researchers agree that slippery elm is a “promising ingredient” for relieving GERD. Why slippery elm is perfectly suited to soothing troubled digestive systems Slippery elm is rich in antioxidant phenolics, resins, and tannins that can help prevent tissue oxidative damage. However, its “secret weapon” against GERD is its high content of mucilage, a type of fiber that forms a gel-like substance in water. Mucilage gives slippery elm natural demulcent qualities (meaning that it can moisturize, hydrate, and protect tissues while relieving inflammation and irritation). In addition, slippery elm stimulates mucus production, which helps coat irritated tissues in the throat and stomach. Many holistic doctors maintain that slippery elm’s soothing and protective powers can help prevent ulcers. While more studies are needed, this natural compound may also hold promise as a natural intervention against a host of digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, “leaky gut,” and Crohn’s disease. Bonus benefit: Smooth and moisturize dry, itchy winter skin Slippery elm, botanically known as Ulmus rubra, is available as a supplement. You can find it in various convenient formulations, including powders, capsules, extracts, tinctures, lozenges, and tea bags. Choose a high-quality product that has been subject to third-party testing and is sold by a reputable vendor. Before trying slippery elm, consult your trusted holistic doctor – who can advise you on the proper amount to take. Slippery elm is also available in ointments and creams for topical use. Some holistic healthcare providers suggest these to address eczema, psoriasis, and rashes – or simply to soothe and pamper run-of-the-mill dry, itchy skin. If you’re tired of “feeling the burn” from acid reflux, maybe it’s time to try slippery elm. This drug-free herbal intervention just might tame the fire. Editor’s note: In case you’re wondering how much slippery elm to take for heartburn relief, typical amounts suggested are as follows: In powdered form mixed with water, tea or juice: 1 tablespoon, up to 3x / day 2 – 4, 380 mg lozenges can help provide relief For tea: 2–3 teaspoons of powder per one-cup serving, 1-2 cups / day And, finally, for capsules: 1,600 mg / day, divided in 2-3 servings / day Other natural heartburn remedies include: lemon water, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera juice, licorice and chamomile tea. Obviously, when in doubt, work with a trusted holistic healthcare provider or health coach to find what remedy works best for you. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Verywellhealth.com NIH.gov NIH.gov Healthline.com Mayoclinic.org NHS.uk To read the original article click here.

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5 Surprisingly Simple Tricks to Eradicate Acid Reflux

AHA Publisher — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 07:00:44 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Are you one of the millions of people suffering from acid reflux? Statistics show that around 50% of Americans will suffer the symptoms of this unfortunate condition! That means the likelihood of you or your family being affected is really high. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 5 all-natural remedies for acid reflux. But first… What Is Acid Reflux? Acid reflux is a result of stomach acid that has made it’s way up into the esophagus. This part of the body is not designed to have contact with the powerful acid of the stomach and prolonged exposure can lead to damage of the tissue of the esophagus. Interestingly, acid reflux is not always caused by too much stomach acid, but can also result from the body not producing enough stomach acid and/or digestive enzymes. Poor dietary choices, over eating, quickly eating, or eating in a stressed state can all contribute to acid reflux. These activities can cause an excess of acid production which may then lead to acid finding its way into the esophagus. Symptoms Of Acid Reflux Acid reflux can cause a myriad of symptoms including heartburn, bloating, nausea, and indigestion. Symptoms can be triggered by eating fried foods, alcohol, coffee, chocolate, spicy food, onions, garlic, citrus, soda, and tomatoes. The chances are that you or a loved one will be dealing with acid reflux at some point in your life. Many people use antacids or other medications to help alleviate the symptoms but these treatments can often have unwanted side effects and don’t always actually treat the underlying cause of the condition. So before you pay for expensive and often counterproductive medications first try these 5 easy and natural acid reflux remedies: Chew Your Food By eating mindfully and chewing each bite of food at least 30 times, not only is the act of masticating mechanically breaking down the food, but this also allows the enzymes of the saliva to begin to digest your food before swallowing. Plus, this gives the stomach adequate time to gauge the proper amount of acid that needs to be produced. Be sure to eat in a relaxed state without too much distraction. When we are relaxed, the nervous system to comes in to parasympathetic dominance which is considered the “rest and digest” state. This will allow your body to utilize adequate resources for the digestion and assimilation of your meal. Apple Cider Vinegar Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 6-8 oz of filtered or spring water. Drink this mixture 10-30 minutes before your meal to help create an environment in the stomach conducive to healthy digestion and balanced stomach acid production. The vinegar will help curb overproduction of acid or will stimulate acid in the case of underproduction. Ginger Ginger root can be used as a delicious appetizer to help prepare your stomach for digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acid, enzymes, and bile. Take a small slice of ginger root and marinate it in a bit of lime juice. Top it off with a dash of mineral rich celtic, himalayan, or aztec sea salt. The salt contains chloride which will help stimulate production of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid). Allow the ginger to marinate in this mixture for 1-2 hours. Consume the marinated ginger 10 to 30 minutes before your meal for best results. Probiotics The balance of bacteria in our digestive tract is critical to the efficiency of our digestion. By adding a small amount of fermented food such a sauerkraut, kimchi, grass-fed yogurt or kefir, raw grass-fed cheese, or kombucha, you introduce a high number of beneficial bacteria, yeasts, and enzymes that help regulate digestion and balance stomach acid production. Additionally, you can supplement probiotics in a capsule or powder form. Digestive Enzymes When the pancreas is not producing adequate digestive enzymes or if the pancreatic ducts are congested and the enzymes can not make their way to the stomach then the food you eat is not broken down entirely and can irritate the stomach causing acid reflux. Raw living foods have naturally occurring enzymes that are wiped out by the cooking of food. To get around this issue you can use a high quality digestive enzyme supplement before meals can help supplement the digestive process allowing your food to digest easier and prevent the overproduction of stomach acid. It is important to only use digestive enzymes intermittently because the goal is to boost your body’s own innate ability to produce enzymes so you are not overly reliant on a supplement. Digest Like The Best! These 5 simple tricks can support your body’s balanced production of stomach acid and dramatically reduce the likelihood of experiencing acid reflux. These all natural and effective remedies produce results without turning to Dr. Don Colbert has formulated a highly efficacious supplement called Fermented Green Supremefood. This collection of fermented grasses and vegetables comes packed with beneficial probiotics, enzymes, and fiber which all help to regulate digestion and alleviate acid reflux. References http://articles.mercola.com/home-remedies-heartburn-acid-reflux-ulcer.aspx http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/home-remedies-for-acid-reflux/ https://draxe.com/acid-reflux-symptoms/ http://lifespa.com/cool-your-digestion/# To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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