How to Escape the Dangers of Antacids and Resolve Heartburn Naturally

[Guest guest]

How to Escape the Dangers of Antacids and Resolve Heartburn Naturally JoAnn

Guest Apr 26, 2005 21:24 PDT

Terry Dorian, Ph.D.

 

The number of people who suffer from heartburn is estimated at 100

million.

http://www.cbn.com/living/health/dorian/heartburn.asp

 

CBN.com -- The number of people who suffer from heartburn is estimated

at 100 million. By offering symptomatic relief to sufferers, the antacid

business has become a three billion-dollar industry.

 

Antacid medications are sold without offering consumers vital

information concerning the causes and complications of heartburn and

digestive problems.

 

Over 25 million Americans take antacids twice a week. Even more take

prescription drugs on a daily basis to find relief for heartburn and

indigestion.

 

The dangers of antacids:

 

Using antacids may cause damage to the lining of the esophagus (e.g.,

precancerous ulcers).

 

Biochemists report that one of the long-term side effects of blocking

acid production is a compromised immune system; hydrochloric acid is an

essential component in the complete digestion of food and protects the

body from pathogenic bacteria.

 

Calcium-based antacids (e.g., Tums) may damage the kidneys if taken over

a long period of time.

 

Magnesium based products (e.g., Mylanta and Maalox) and aluminum-based

products (e.g., Rolaids) should not be taken by anyone experiencing

kidney problems.

 

Antacids do not heal the tissue that has been inflamed or injured by

stomach acid.

 

Before treating acid reflux and indigestion with drugs, consumers ought

to ask their health professionals four questions:

 

What could be causing me to suffer from heartburn and indigestion?

 

Will the treatment that you are recommending heal my body or will it

simply provide symptomatic relief?

 

Will I experience side effects from the product(s) that you recommend

and will I be in any danger as a result of consuming the product(s)?

 

Can you recommend any natural healing therapies that would resolve my

problems safely and effectively?

 

If your health professional is not able to recommend safe and

efficacious ways to treat acid reflux and chronic indigestion, you may

want to begin searching for one who can.

 

One way to find a medical doctor who is competent in recommending

natural therapies is by contacting the American College for Advancement

in Medicine www.acam.org.

 

ACAM will provide a list of licensed medical doctors in your location

who have been trained in prescribing natural therapies. Another source

of help is the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) at

1-206-298-0125. Naturopathic physicians undergo rigorous training in

natural therapies.

 

What are the causes of acid reflux?

 

The chief cause of digestive problems is a diet high in fat and low in

fiber, filled with chemicals, additives, simple sugars and refined

carbohydrates.

 

A diet of processed, devitalized foods does not contain sufficient

enzymes necessary for digestion. Furthermore, minimal processing and

heating destroys the enzymes that are vital for complete digestion.

 

Antacids actually shut down digestion. In order to build health and

avoid digestive problems, we need to optimize digestion and heal the

inflammation caused by acid reflux.

 

Coffee, alcohol, tobacco, carbonated beverages, and chocolate further

aggravate digestive problems.

 

Many sufferers are even bothered by tomatoes, citrus,and natural spices.

 

 

Some drugs used to treat other diseases have a relaxing action that

affects the esophagus muscle and increase the problems associated with

acid reflux (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants and nitroglycerin

medications).

 

Safe and effective relief from indigestion and acid reflux is available.

A dietary supplement containing digestive enzymes is important for

anyone who wants to optimize the digestion and assimilation of cooked

and processed food.

 

Effective digestive formulas contain ingredients such as amylase,

invertase, glucoamylase, protease, malt diastase, cellulase, peptidase,

lipase, lactase and acid-stable protease.

 

Researchers have also discovered that dietary and supplementary

ingestion of Lactobacillus species (friendly bacteria) such as L.

acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus support the body

nutritionally and play a therapeutic role as well. These Lactobacillus

species produce enzymes that aid in the digestion of proteins,

carbohydrates, and fats.

 

 

---

 

Terry Dorian, Ph.D., wife, mother, author, radio/television personality,

and popular conference speaker, is considered one of the most discerning

health researchers on the scene today. To find more articles on this and

other topics visit her online at

 

www.healthbeginsinhim.org

or write

drdo-.

---

GERD stands for Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease. " Gastro " refers to the

stomach. Esophageal refers to the esophagus, the tube that carries food

from the mouth to the stomach.

 

Reflux means to back-up or flow backwards. GERD is a condition in which

partially-digested food in the stomach backs up into the esophagus.

 

Partially digested food contains a strong acid like that used in

automobile batteries. It also contains powerful enzymes that break down

food.

When acid and enzymes come into contact with the esophagus, they cause

irritation, inflammation, pain, and other symptoms.

 

The stomach lining has a special " protective layer " that protects the

stomach from acid attack. However, this protective layer does not exist

in the esophagus, making it vulnerable to damage from stomach acid and

digestive enzymes.

 

Nice To Know:

 

Q. What is heartburn, anyway? How does eating certain foods make the

heart burn?

 

A. Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. It's a popular term for

the burning sensation that occurs behind the breastbone, right in the

area where the heart is located.

The esophagus also runs through the same region of the chest. It carries

food from the mouth into the stomach, where a strong acid and enzymes

help to digest it.

 

When stomach contents back up into the esophagus, the acid and enzymes

cause irritation and inflammation. That's the burning sensation in

heartburn.

--

COMMON PROBLEMS WITH ANTACIDS:

---

CALCIUM CARBONATE AND ACID REBOUND-

 

Calcium carbonate is especially fast-acting. Within a few hours,

however, the body will overcompensate by producing an extra " surge "

of acid.

 

PROBLEMS WITH SODIUM BICARBONATE:

 

When used for long periods of time, sodium bicarbonate can cause

increased acidity throughout the body.

 

Highly acidic body chemistries (systemic alkalosis) are involved in

health problems such as arthritis, kidney stones, nausea and mental

confusion.

 

ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE AND BONE LOSS:

 

Antacids containing aluminum can contribute to phosphate deficiency

when used for long periods of time.

 

This is because the 'phosphate' in food 'reacts' with the 'aluminum'

in the antacid to form a solid material that is passed in the

stool.

In order to keep enough phosphorus in the blood, the body will take

it out of bones.

Bone " demineralization " is especially a problem for older people

who tend to use these products regularly.

 

ALUMINUM AND IMPAIRED MENTAL FUNCTION:

 

Although the FDA and manufacturers say that " aluminum " in 'antacids'

is not " absorbed', studies since 1986 have shown that it IS,

especially in cases of kidney problems and in the presence of " acidic "

foods such as citrus fruits or soda pop.

 

There is increasing evidence that aluminum is involved in

Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's

disease and some other nervous system problems.

 

Stomach acid is " required " for good digestion.

Poor digestion " produces " heartburn.

 

People with heart-burn take antacids.

Antacids reduce stomach acid.

oops, more heartburn.

 

Stomach acid is required for good mineral " absorption " , including

calcium & magnesium. Calcium carbonate antacids " neutralize " the stomach

acid " needed " for their absorption.

 

The stomach's job is to produce and hold digestive acid and enzymes.

When antacids are used regularly, the stomach senses this and over

time, increases its acid production " rate " set point.

 

Taking antacids to " reduce " acid can lead to the " production " of

*excessive* acid and more discomfort.

-

SIDE EFFECTS OF ANTACIDS:

 

Use of antacids can cause bowel " irregularities " including

constipation, nausea and diarrhea with occasional vomiting and

can lead to kidney stones, 'demineralization of bones', bone

pain and muscle weakness.

They can be counted on to produce " malabsorption' of' minerals'.

 

The list of diseases that have been associated with " low gastric

acidity " include, but are not limited to:

 

Anemia, arthritis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, celiac disease,

dermatitis, diabetes, eczema, gallbladder problems, hepatitis,

lupus, osteoporosis, psoriasis and problems with over- and under-

active thyroid glands.

 

To avoid these and other low stomach acidity problems, use

digestive enzymes with meals.

 

This section was Originally published in the The H. E. L. P.,

Natural Health Newsletter and edited by Kay Lubecke, B.A., M.S.

Certified Herbalist and Nutritional Counselor

 

------------------------------

Different types of antacids can interfere with the

" absorption " of essential minerals.

---

Any antacid can " interfere " with the *absorption* of iron, zinc, and

possibly other minerals by neutralizing stomach acid.

 

Aluminum-containing antacids can bind with phosphorus and interfere

with its absorption, and this can further lead to

calcium " depletion " .

 

Antacids that contain calcium also compete for absorption with

iron. Calcium antacids alter the *absorption* of magnesium.

Calcium-containing antacids, when taken with zinc supplements,

substantially decrease 'zinc' absorption.

 

Finally, calcium based antacids (i.e. Tums, etc) " impair " the absorption

of manganese and " chromium. " (minerals essential for glucose metabolism)

 

---

 

Safe and effective relief from indigestion and acid reflux is

available. A dietary supplement containing digestive enzymes is

important for anyone who wants to optimize the digestion and

assimilation of cooked food. Effective digestive formulas contain

ingredients such as amylase,

invertase, glucoamylase, protease, malt diastase, cellulase,

peptidase, lipase, lactase and acid-stable protease.

 

Researchers have also discovered that dietary and supplementary

ingestion of Lactobacillus species (friendly bacteria) such as L.

acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus support the body

nutritionally and play a therapeutic role as well.

 

These Lactobacillus species produce enzymes that aid in the

digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

---

The pancreas produces and secretes various enzymes (called

" proteolytic enzymes " , including trypsin, chymotrypsin,

carboxypeptidase, and so on) that break down proteins into smaller

components called " amino acids " . These substances, in turn, help create

other enzymes, hormones and body tissue for growth and repair.

 

If the pancreas doesn't 'neutralize' the acid coming from the

stomach with " bicarbonates " , the proteolytic enzymes (the ones that

break down food protein) are destroyed.

This can result in incomplete or " foreign " *protein* molecules

being absorbed into the " bloodstream " and circulating throughout the

body.

Your body's immune system naturally attacks these molecules.

This series of events is the basis for your " allergic food reaction. "

Antibiotics are also problematic.

-------------------------------

" Peyer's Patches " and Fat Metabolism

---

The *lymphatic* system has " representatives " in the digestive tract

called Peyer's patches and they perform an important function.

These clumps of lymphatic tissue are spread throughout the small

intestine.

 

*Fat* molecules, unlike other nutrients, are generally too

" large " to be absorbed directly from the intestine.

So they are 'absorbed' by these patches and transported along the

lymphatic system, then eventually they are released into the blood

stream where they can be carried throughout the body.

 

Between 80 to 90 percent of all the 'fat' absorbed from the gut

requires the help of the " lymphatic " system

 

-------------------------------

Contrary to what the huge drug companies that make antacids and H2

blocker drugs say, excessive 'acid' production is almost 'never' the

reason for heartburn, acid digestion or ulcers.

 

It is now estimated that up to one-third of all bleeding

ulcers are caused by taking " NSAID " drugs such as aspirin and

ibuprofen.

Antacids and H2 blockers " alleviate " symptoms for a short while by

buffering acid and decreasing acid secretion, but can actually

'aggravate' the underlying problem; which is too " little " acid in the

stomach.

 

With 'chronic use' of these medications, digestion is 'compromised'

and ''decreased' absorption of some vitamins and minerals result.

--- A

few years ago, if you asked your physician what causes ulcers,

he or she would promptly reply that too much stomach acid was to

blame. Now we know that a spiral-shaped bacteria called Helicobacter

pylori (H. pylori for short) is the primary culprit.

It 'suppresses' acid 'production' and creates holes in the stomach's

protective mucous layer, allowing acid to seep through and burn

holes in the delicate tissue underneath.

 

--------------------------------

Natural Alternatives

--------------------------------

 

Eating a balanced diet of unprocessed, organic whole foods is your

foundation for a healthy stomach.

Include organic salads or raw

organic vegetables in your diet. To increase stomach acid,

drink a glass of room temperature water a half-hour before eating. If

that doesn't help, you can add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. If

neither of these solutions work, try taking a betaine hydrochloride

supplement (HCI) with your meal. Since stomach acid production declines

as we age, HCI

supplementation can be a good anti-aging strategy.

 

Natural heartburn therapies include deglycyrrhizinated licorice

extract or DGI. Try one or two 380 mg tablets on an empty stomach,

three to four times a day.

 

A glass of room temperature water, raw cabbage or potato juice

(organic) or herbal teas, (lukewarm, no lemon) can bring quick

relief. Fresh organic papaya or banana can help as well.

 

If you do need to lower your stomach 'acidity' you can use a form of

organic sulfur called MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) in supplement

form, 1,000 mg daily.

 

Remember, your stomach " acid " is one of your front line defenses

against harmful bacteria.

Suppress it and the rest of your systems have to work " overtime " to

protect you.

 

Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D

is a best-selling author in the field

of health and nutrition. This excerpt is from his latest book,

" Prescription Alternatives " co-authored with Virginia Hopkins.

------------------------------

Digestive Cocktail:

Every one of the ingredients in this tasty dessert contains

significant amounts of stomach-soothing " anti-ulcer " compounds.

 

Pineapple

Blueberries

Raw Honey (optional)

Unripe Bananas

Ground cinnamon

Ground cloves

Ground ginger

Cut up the bananas and pineapple, the amount and proportions will

vary depending on how many people you're serving and which fruits

you like the best. Place them in a serving bowl and add the blueberries.

 

 

Season to taste with the cinnamon, cloves and ginger (try to be

generous) and sweeten with raw honey if desired.

 

If you like, you can also make a between meal drink by

blending blueberry juice, pineapple juice, a banana and the spices

listed above. Garnish each serving with a peppermint sprig.

--

Ginger is well known for its anti-inflammatory activity, but its

considerably less known as an herbal treatment for Indigestion.

 

In fact, ginger contains 11 compounds that have demonstrated anti-

ulcer effects. These chemical compounds are a real mouthful, but I

think that you might find it interesting to know just how much

anti-ulcer chemistry can be concentrated in a single humble spice.

 

Here they are in order, from most to least abundant:

6 shogaol, 6 gingerol, 8shogaol, 8 gingerol, 10 gingerol, ar-curcumene,

beta-bisalene, 6-gingediol,

betases quiphellan-drene, 6 gingerdione and 6 paradol.

 

Eating ginger root is a pleasant tasting treatment for ulcers, according

to Paul Schulick, New England herbalist and author.

 

The combination of honey and ginger in particularly effective. In

addition to the " antibacterial " compounds, that are

available from ginger, raw honey has antibacterial action, and the two

together seem to produce " synergistic " effects.

 

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) –

German physicians have always been more open to herbal medicine than

doctors in the United Sates, and they have researched herbal

alternative extensively. Commission E, the body of scientists that

advises the German counterpart of the Food and Drug Administration,

approves licorice as a " digestive aid " .

 

This recommendation is based on the medical traditions of Asia, the

middle east and Europe, plus literally dozens of scientific studies.

 

Licorice root contains several compounds, including glycyrrhizin acid.

Licorice and its extracts are safe for normal use in moderate amounts,

up to about three cups of tea a day.

 

It is better to use a slightly processed form of the herb called

deglycyrrhizated licorice

(DGL). In one good study, DGL was at least as effective in speeding

healing as the newest class of pharmaceutical drugs called

'histamine' blocking agents that were designed to do this.

 

DGL also seems to protect the digestive lining from aspirin's ulcer

" promoting " effects. Commercial licorice preparations containing DGL are

readily available in natural health food stores.

 

If you have digestive problems, this is the preferred form of licorice

to take, but clearly some of the " power " of the herbs is lost with the

lost glycyrrhizin. If you'd like to take licorice from time to time, as

an ulcer preventive,when you're brewing some other herbal tea, add a

little licorice.

Licorice by itself makes a sweet, pleasant tasting tea, and when

added to other teas, it serves as a sweetener.

H. pylori virus is linked to the rising risks of stomach *cancer*, and

we must take these conditions seriously.

 

Unripe Banana -

Bananas are an old folk remedy for many gastrointestinal problems

because they sooth the digestive tract. And studies with

experimental animals suggest that bananas do, in fact, have a soothing

effect on the stomach.

One researcher noted that " bananas " may be another useful addition to

such well established anti-ulcer foods as raw cabbage, green tea,

garlic and legumes.

 

Raw Cabbage juice —

is a hallowed folk remedy for ulcers. It turns out that cabbage and

its juice contain considerable amounts of two compounds with anti-

ulcer activity, glutamine and S-Methyl-methionine.

 

Melvin Werbach, M.D. assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at

the University of California, Los Angeles, school of medicine and

author to the excellent nutritional influences on illness, cites a

study of people with digestive ailments who were given raw cabbage juice

as a treatment.

Ninety-two percent showed significant improvement within three weeks

compared with 37 percent of those taking a placebo without cabbage

juice.

 

In studies of just the active compound glutamine, daily doses

of 1,600 mgs proved more effective than conventional antacids in

treating ulcers.

The folk recommendation for digestive problems is to drink one

quart of raw cabbage juice a day.

 

Calendula -

Calendula, sometimes known as pot marigold, has antibacterial,

antivirus and immune stimulating properties.

 

Calendula has been shown to alleviate symptoms of chronic stomach

inflammation which doctors call " hypersecretory gastritis.

Clinical trials in Europe have proven its effectiveness.

 

You can make a tea with the dried herb or take a tincture. I

personally enjoy a cup or two of tea made with about five teaspoons

of fresh calendula flowers. It is especially good with lemon balm

 

It wise to eliminate alcohol if you have an ulcer. Finnish researchers

have discovered that alcohol abuse increase the risk of H. pylori

infection by 500 percent. If you have hay fever, however,

you might want to avoid taking the herb, because people who are allergic

 

to ragweed may react to calendula as well, if you take it and have a

reaction –itching or any other discomfort—discontinue use.

 

Fennel tea would also be fine -- as would anise, chamomile,

coriander or caraway tea. There are other herbs that have a reputation

as carminatives for the intestinal tract - however fennel is the one we

recommend most frequently.

 

Chamomile —

several herbalists I admire recommend chamomile tea, notably Rudolf

Fritz Wiess, M.D. the dean of German medical herbalists, and author of

Herbal Medicine.

 

He writes that`the remedy of choice for digestive ailments is

chamomile. …there can be no other remedy more tailor-made, including all

synthetic products. Widely used as a digestive aid in Europe, chamomile

is uniquely suited to treating digestive ailments, including ulcers.

This is because it combines anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic

and stomach soothing properties.

 

Pineapple -

Like cabbage, pineapple is fairly well endowed with " glutamine " , a

compound useful for digestion. Pineapple also contains " bromelain " , a

most effective digestive aid.

 

Bilberry and blueberry -

Both of these fruits contain compounds known as " anthocyanosides " .

In studies with experimental animals, these compounds have been shown to

offer sigificant protection " against ulcers and other digestive problems

They help stimulate the production of mucus that protects the stomach

lining from digestive acids.

 

Meadowsweet -

 

Like willow bark, meadowsweet is a type of " herbal aspirin " . Aspirin

in high doses causes ulcers, so it might seem strange to recommend

it as an ulcer treatment. Many prominent herbalists do, however

among them British herbalist David Hoffmann author of several good

herbals including The Herbal Handbook.

 

The active compounds in meadowsweet are " salicylates " .

Aspirin, on the other hand,-- is nothing BUT

salicylates.Hoffmann says that pure salicylates do indeed *cause*

ulcers.

Whole Medowsweet - helps " prevent " and " treat " them 'despite' its

salicyate content.

 

Other chemical compounds in whole meadowsweet, among them tannins,

phenolid glycosides and the herbs essential oil, give it an

" anti-ulcer " effect.

Hoffmann unflinchingly maintains that meadowsweet is one of the best

digestive herbs and recommends it for ulcers and heartburn.

This makes sense to me.

 

Several plants with proven anti-ulcer effects, including chamomile,

also contain salicylates.

 

Rhubarb--

In a Chinese study of 312 people with bleeding ulcers, rhubarb

helped improve some 90 percent within a few days., I'd be careful when

using this herb though, as its also a powerful laxative,. If you

experience diarrhea, cut back the amount you're taking or

discontinue use altogether.

 

Turmeric--

 

This culinary herbs used in Indian and Asian curry dishes, might be

called the poor persons ulcer treatment. In a good study by

physicians in Thailand, turmeric (250 mgs capsules three times

a day) relieved ulcer pain as well as pharmaceutical

antacids.

 

Red Pepper--

Many Americans believe that hot spices cause ulcers. The truth is,

they don't. In fact, they may even protect the stomach and duodenal

lining against them. Capsaicin, the compound that gives red pepper

the heart helping properties, has been shown to reverse the damage

in experimental animals that were given high, ulcer causing doses of

aspirin,.

 

Gentian—

this is one of several 'bitter' herbs traditionally used to aid

digestion. Commission E reports that the 'bitter' compounds in

gentian stimulate the flow of saliva and stomach secretions.

 

Garlic--

Garlic is a potent, broad spectrum antibiotic. Paul Bergner, editor

of Medieval Herbalism suggests that those who are wary of

pharmaceutical antibiotics for ulcer treatment might want to try a

course of garlic therapy.

 

This would involve eating nine raw garlic cloves a day. You can chop

the garlic and mix it with any food that makes it palatable, such as

carrot juice. Try blending two raw cloves of garlic with one organic

carrot, for instance, I tried it and the combination tasted better than

I thought. It's a painless way to take a couple of cloves of garlic.

You can also try whipping up an antic-ulcer gazpacho, heavy on the

garlic and red pepper.

 

Cabbage soup:

You'll have to do a little experimenting to arrive at a flavor that

pleases you. If you try the optional spices, use them sparingly,

they are delicious in cabbage soup. The flavor is rather exotic.

 

3 cups water

2 cups shredded cabbage

2 cup chopped celery

1 cup diced organic potatoes

½ cup chopped okra

1 cup diced onions

½ cup chopped green pepper

Ground red pepper

Ground ginger

Groundpepper

Ground cinnamon

Ground clove

Dried licorice root

 

Place the water, cabbage, celery, potatoes, okra, onions, and green

pepper in a soup pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, Reduce the

heat, cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Season to

taste with the red pepper, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon cloves and

licorice.

 

Other Useful Supplements & Herbs:

 

Fennel

Alfalfa

Aloe Vera Juice

Celery

Brown rice

Black Walnut

Peppermint oil

Yarrow

Organic Papaya

Proteolytic Enzymes

Acidophilus

 

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

 

How about ginger as an herbal alternative to cimetidine (Tagamet),

ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid)? It would sure taste a

lot better! There are hundreds of herbs that can help soothe a troubled

tummy.

Here are several that I recommend.

 

Camomile (Matricaria recutita).

 

Commission E, the German group of scientists that makes

recommendations on herbal safety and effectiveness, considers camomile

" effective " for relieving many gastrointestinal complaints, including

indigestion.

 

Andrew Weil, M.D., professor at the University of Arizona College of

Medicine in Tucson and author of Natural Health, Natural Medicine,

says that the best home remedies for upset stomach are camomile and

peppermint tea. Personally, I prefer peppermint, but both are effective.

 

While drinking camomile tea is fine, the tincture is probably more

effective. Camomile tea has only 10 to 15 percent of the herb's

carminative essential oil, while tinctures prepared with 100-proof

alcohol have much more.

 

Peppermint (Mentha piperita).

 

Most herbalists, myself included, have a special regard for

peppermint's ability to relieve indigestion. I've needed peppermint

more often since 1990, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

gave me a bad case of indigestion by ruling that peppermint is

ineffective for stomach distress.

This does not mean that peppermint is useless.

Frankly, it means that the FDA's evaluation was useless.

 

Commission E endorses peppermint tea for treating indigestion. Given

a choice between an FDA pronouncement and a Commission E endorsement,

I'd go for the German decision. Those folks did some research and really

know what they're about.

 

Peppermint tea works well, but I'm also partial to mint juleps,

which, it turns out, work even better. Varro Tyler, Ph.D., dean and

professor emeritus of pharmacognosy (natural product pharmacy) at Purdue

University in West Lafayette, Indiana, notes that most of the

carminative oils in peppermint and other mints are relatively

insoluble in water.

As a result, mint tea doesn't contain much of the plant's

stomach-soothing constituents. It does contain enough to make it

effective, but a peppermint tincture, which is made with alcohol,

contains more. So if for some reason you don't want to drink a

julep, you can use a tincture instead.

 

 

If I had frequent bouts of indigestion, I'd mix up some of this

tincture, which I guarantee tastes better than Mylanta.

I have no recipe, so I just mix my herbs according to what I happen

to have on hand. Here are the herbs I include:

 

a dash each of angelica, anise, camomile, coriander, fennel, ginger,

rosemary and turmeric with two dashes of any of the mints, especially

marjoram and peppermint. It's okay to leave some out and to alter the

mixture to suit your personal tastes.

Steep these herbs overnight in the refrigerator in a mixture of

alcohol and water (one shot of vodka per cup of spring water). You can

drink this as a tea or add some to pineapple juice.

 

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum).

 

No wonder coriander helps soothe indigestion: Its essential oil is

carminative, antiseptic, bactericidal, fungicidal and a muscle

relaxant. Traditional herbalists valued coriander, especially to

counteract the stomach-upsetting properties of laxative herbs such

as buckthorn, cascara,and rhubarb.

 

In Amazonia, wild coriander (Eryngium foetidum), with nearly the same

chemistry, is added to the daily bean ration, perhaps to alleviate the

" flatlence " the beans could generate.

 

papaya (Carica papaya) and pineapple (Ananas comosus).

Both of these fruits contain enzymes (proteolytics) that break down

protein.

 

Naturopaths and people who advocate juicing for health,

among them medical anthropologist John Heinerman, Ph.D., author of

Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs, maintain

that papaya and pineapple juice are good for relieving indigestion.

 

If they're right, you should also get benefits from eating other

fruits that contain

" proteolytic enzymes " ,such as kiwifruit or figs, after meals.

If I had chronic indigestion, I might have these fruits for dessert more

often.

 

Assorted carminative herbs.

If anything, there are too many herbal carminatives. In my database,

I have more than 500 carminative entries, including all of the plants

mentioned in this chapter. Most are supported by at least some research.

 

 

Also included are agrimony, allspice, apples, basil, bay, beebalm,

buckwheat, burdock, caraway, cardamom, catnip, celery, chervil,

chives, cloves, coriander, cumin, dill,

fennel, garlic, horehound, hyssop,

lemon balm (also known as melissa), lemongrass, lovage, marjoram,

nutmeg, onions, oregano, papaya, parsnips, pennyroyal,

rosemary, sage, savory, tarragon, tea, thyme, turmeric, vanilla and

yarrow.

 

Feel free to try any of these herbs to relieve indigestion.

 

Assorted essential oils.

 

Aromatherapists often recommend a few whiffs of a number of

different carminative oils to settle a troubled tummy,

 

including aniseed, basil, bergamot, camomile, cinnamon, clove,

coriander, fennel, garlic, ginger, hyssop, juniper, lavender, lemon,

lemongrass, onion, peppermint, rosemary, sage, savory, tarragon and

thyme.

Do not ingest these oils, though, as some of them can be

fatal in even small doses. They are meant to be used externally!

_________________

 

JoAnn Guest

mrsjo-

DietaryTi-

www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/Genes

 

 

 

 

AIM Barleygreen

" Wisdom of the Past, Food of the Future "

 

http://www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/Diets.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

Hi JoAnn,

You have mentioned below that Tums taken over a period of time can be harmful.

Can you tell me from where you have got this information or provide the links. I

know plenty of friend's kids who take tums on a daliy basis for several years

for the calcium. A couple of are allergic to dairy and take several a day to

make up for the calcium. If it is really harmful, I would like to pass on that

information to my friends.

Thanks,

S

JoAnn Guest <angelprincessjo wrote:

 

 

How to Escape the Dangers of Antacids and Resolve Heartburn Naturally JoAnn

Guest Apr 26, 2005 21:24 PDT

Terry Dorian, Ph.D.

 

The number of people who suffer from heartburn is estimated at 100

million.

http://www.cbn.com/living/health/dorian/heartburn.asp

 

CBN.com -- The number of people who suffer from heartburn is estimated

at 100 million. By offering symptomatic relief to sufferers, the antacid

business has become a three billion-dollar industry.

 

Antacid medications are sold without offering consumers vital

information concerning the causes and complications of heartburn and

digestive problems.

 

Over 25 million Americans take antacids twice a week. Even more take

prescription drugs on a daily basis to find relief for heartburn and

indigestion.

 

The dangers of antacids:

 

Using antacids may cause damage to the lining of the esophagus (e.g.,

precancerous ulcers).

 

Biochemists report that one of the long-term side effects of blocking

acid production is a compromised immune system; hydrochloric acid is an

essential component in the complete digestion of food and protects the

body from pathogenic bacteria.

 

Calcium-based antacids (e.g., Tums) may damage the kidneys if taken over

a long period of time.

 

Magnesium based products (e.g., Mylanta and Maalox) and aluminum-based

products (e.g., Rolaids) should not be taken by anyone experiencing

kidney problems.

 

Antacids do not heal the tissue that has been inflamed or injured by

stomach acid.

 

Before treating acid reflux and indigestion with drugs, consumers ought

to ask their health professionals four questions:

 

What could be causing me to suffer from heartburn and indigestion?

 

Will the treatment that you are recommending heal my body or will it

simply provide symptomatic relief?

 

Will I experience side effects from the product(s) that you recommend

and will I be in any danger as a result of consuming the product(s)?

 

Can you recommend any natural healing therapies that would resolve my

problems safely and effectively?

 

If your health professional is not able to recommend safe and

efficacious ways to treat acid reflux and chronic indigestion, you may

want to begin searching for one who can.

 

One way to find a medical doctor who is competent in recommending

natural therapies is by contacting the American College for Advancement

in Medicine www.acam.org.

 

ACAM will provide a list of licensed medical doctors in your location

who have been trained in prescribing natural therapies. Another source

of help is the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) at

1-206-298-0125. Naturopathic physicians undergo rigorous training in

natural therapies.

 

What are the causes of acid reflux?

 

The chief cause of digestive problems is a diet high in fat and low in

fiber, filled with chemicals, additives, simple sugars and refined

carbohydrates.

 

A diet of processed, devitalized foods does not contain sufficient

enzymes necessary for digestion. Furthermore, minimal processing and

heating destroys the enzymes that are vital for complete digestion.

 

Antacids actually shut down digestion. In order to build health and

avoid digestive problems, we need to optimize digestion and heal the

inflammation caused by acid reflux.

 

Coffee, alcohol, tobacco, carbonated beverages, and chocolate further

aggravate digestive problems.

 

Many sufferers are even bothered by tomatoes, citrus,and natural spices.

 

 

Some drugs used to treat other diseases have a relaxing action that

affects the esophagus muscle and increase the problems associated with

acid reflux (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants and nitroglycerin

medications).

 

Safe and effective relief from indigestion and acid reflux is available.

A dietary supplement containing digestive enzymes is important for

anyone who wants to optimize the digestion and assimilation of cooked

and processed food.

 

Effective digestive formulas contain ingredients such as amylase,

invertase, glucoamylase, protease, malt diastase, cellulase, peptidase,

lipase, lactase and acid-stable protease.

 

Researchers have also discovered that dietary and supplementary

ingestion of Lactobacillus species (friendly bacteria) such as L.

acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus support the body

nutritionally and play a therapeutic role as well. These Lactobacillus

species produce enzymes that aid in the digestion of proteins,

carbohydrates, and fats.

 

 

---

 

Terry Dorian, Ph.D., wife, mother, author, radio/television personality,

and popular conference speaker, is considered one of the most discerning

health researchers on the scene today. To find more articles on this and

other topics visit her online at

 

www.healthbeginsinhim.org

or write

drdo-.

---

GERD stands for Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease. " Gastro " refers to the

stomach. Esophageal refers to the esophagus, the tube that carries food

from the mouth to the stomach.

 

Reflux means to back-up or flow backwards. GERD is a condition in which

partially-digested food in the stomach backs up into the esophagus.

 

Partially digested food contains a strong acid like that used in

automobile batteries. It also contains powerful enzymes that break down

food.

When acid and enzymes come into contact with the esophagus, they cause

irritation, inflammation, pain, and other symptoms.

 

The stomach lining has a special " protective layer " that protects the

stomach from acid attack. However, this protective layer does not exist

in the esophagus, making it vulnerable to damage from stomach acid and

digestive enzymes.

 

Nice To Know:

 

Q. What is heartburn, anyway? How does eating certain foods make the

heart burn?

 

A. Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. It's a popular term for

the burning sensation that occurs behind the breastbone, right in the

area where the heart is located.

The esophagus also runs through the same region of the chest. It carries

food from the mouth into the stomach, where a strong acid and enzymes

help to digest it.

 

When stomach contents back up into the esophagus, the acid and enzymes

cause irritation and inflammation. That's the burning sensation in

heartburn.

--

COMMON PROBLEMS WITH ANTACIDS:

---

CALCIUM CARBONATE AND ACID REBOUND-

 

Calcium carbonate is especially fast-acting. Within a few hours,

however, the body will overcompensate by producing an extra " surge "

of acid.

 

PROBLEMS WITH SODIUM BICARBONATE:

 

When used for long periods of time, sodium bicarbonate can cause

increased acidity throughout the body.

 

Highly acidic body chemistries (systemic alkalosis) are involved in

health problems such as arthritis, kidney stones, nausea and mental

confusion.

 

ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE AND BONE LOSS:

 

Antacids containing aluminum can contribute to phosphate deficiency

when used for long periods of time.

 

This is because the 'phosphate' in food 'reacts' with the 'aluminum'

in the antacid to form a solid material that is passed in the

stool.

In order to keep enough phosphorus in the blood, the body will take

it out of bones.

Bone " demineralization " is especially a problem for older people

who tend to use these products regularly.

 

ALUMINUM AND IMPAIRED MENTAL FUNCTION:

 

Although the FDA and manufacturers say that " aluminum " in 'antacids'

is not " absorbed', studies since 1986 have shown that it IS,

especially in cases of kidney problems and in the presence of " acidic "

foods such as citrus fruits or soda pop.

 

There is increasing evidence that aluminum is involved in

Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's

disease and some other nervous system problems.

 

Stomach acid is " required " for good digestion.

Poor digestion " produces " heartburn.

 

People with heart-burn take antacids.

Antacids reduce stomach acid.

oops, more heartburn.

 

Stomach acid is required for good mineral " absorption " , including

calcium & magnesium. Calcium carbonate antacids " neutralize " the stomach

acid " needed " for their absorption.

 

The stomach's job is to produce and hold digestive acid and enzymes.

When antacids are used regularly, the stomach senses this and over

time, increases its acid production " rate " set point.

 

Taking antacids to " reduce " acid can lead to the " production " of

*excessive* acid and more discomfort.

-

SIDE EFFECTS OF ANTACIDS:

 

Use of antacids can cause bowel " irregularities " including

constipation, nausea and diarrhea with occasional vomiting and

can lead to kidney stones, 'demineralization of bones', bone

pain and muscle weakness.

They can be counted on to produce " malabsorption' of' minerals'.

 

The list of diseases that have been associated with " low gastric

acidity " include, but are not limited to:

 

Anemia, arthritis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, celiac disease,

dermatitis, diabetes, eczema, gallbladder problems, hepatitis,

lupus, osteoporosis, psoriasis and problems with over- and under-

active thyroid glands.

 

To avoid these and other low stomach acidity problems, use

digestive enzymes with meals.

 

This section was Originally published in the The H. E. L. P.,

Natural Health Newsletter and edited by Kay Lubecke, B.A., M.S.

Certified Herbalist and Nutritional Counselor

 

------------------------------

Different types of antacids can interfere with the

" absorption " of essential minerals.

---

Any antacid can " interfere " with the *absorption* of iron, zinc, and

possibly other minerals by neutralizing stomach acid.

 

Aluminum-containing antacids can bind with phosphorus and interfere

with its absorption, and this can further lead to

calcium " depletion " .

 

Antacids that contain calcium also compete for absorption with

iron. Calcium antacids alter the *absorption* of magnesium.

Calcium-containing antacids, when taken with zinc supplements,

substantially decrease 'zinc' absorption.

 

Finally, calcium based antacids (i.e. Tums, etc) " impair " the absorption

of manganese and " chromium. " (minerals essential for glucose metabolism)

 

---

 

Safe and effective relief from indigestion and acid reflux is

available. A dietary supplement containing digestive enzymes is

important for anyone who wants to optimize the digestion and

assimilation of cooked food. Effective digestive formulas contain

ingredients such as amylase,

invertase, glucoamylase, protease, malt diastase, cellulase,

peptidase, lipase, lactase and acid-stable protease.

 

Researchers have also discovered that dietary and supplementary

ingestion of Lactobacillus species (friendly bacteria) such as L.

acidophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. bifidus support the body

nutritionally and play a therapeutic role as well.

 

These Lactobacillus species produce enzymes that aid in the

digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

---

The pancreas produces and secretes various enzymes (called

" proteolytic enzymes " , including trypsin, chymotrypsin,

carboxypeptidase, and so on) that break down proteins into smaller

components called " amino acids " . These substances, in turn, help create

other enzymes, hormones and body tissue for growth and repair.

 

If the pancreas doesn't 'neutralize' the acid coming from the

stomach with " bicarbonates " , the proteolytic enzymes (the ones that

break down food protein) are destroyed.

This can result in incomplete or " foreign " *protein* molecules

being absorbed into the " bloodstream " and circulating throughout the

body.

Your body's immune system naturally attacks these molecules.

This series of events is the basis for your " allergic food reaction. "

Antibiotics are also problematic.

-------------------------------

" Peyer's Patches " and Fat Metabolism

---

The *lymphatic* system has " representatives " in the digestive tract

called Peyer's patches and they perform an important function.

These clumps of lymphatic tissue are spread throughout the small

intestine.

 

*Fat* molecules, unlike other nutrients, are generally too

" large " to be absorbed directly from the intestine.

So they are 'absorbed' by these patches and transported along the

lymphatic system, then eventually they are released into the blood

stream where they can be carried throughout the body.

 

Between 80 to 90 percent of all the 'fat' absorbed from the gut

requires the help of the " lymphatic " system

 

-------------------------------

Contrary to what the huge drug companies that make antacids and H2

blocker drugs say, excessive 'acid' production is almost 'never' the

reason for heartburn, acid digestion or ulcers.

 

It is now estimated that up to one-third of all bleeding

ulcers are caused by taking " NSAID " drugs such as aspirin and

ibuprofen.

Antacids and H2 blockers " alleviate " symptoms for a short while by

buffering acid and decreasing acid secretion, but can actually

'aggravate' the underlying problem; which is too " little " acid in the

stomach.

 

With 'chronic use' of these medications, digestion is 'compromised'

and ''decreased' absorption of some vitamins and minerals result.

--- A

few years ago, if you asked your physician what causes ulcers,

he or she would promptly reply that too much stomach acid was to

blame. Now we know that a spiral-shaped bacteria called Helicobacter

pylori (H. pylori for short) is the primary culprit.

It 'suppresses' acid 'production' and creates holes in the stomach's

protective mucous layer, allowing acid to seep through and burn

holes in the delicate tissue underneath.

 

--------------------------------

Natural Alternatives

--------------------------------

 

Eating a balanced diet of unprocessed, organic whole foods is your

foundation for a healthy stomach.

Include organic salads or raw

organic vegetables in your diet. To increase stomach acid,

drink a glass of room temperature water a half-hour before eating. If

that doesn't help, you can add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. If

neither of these solutions work, try taking a betaine hydrochloride

supplement (HCI) with your meal. Since stomach acid production declines

as we age, HCI

supplementation can be a good anti-aging strategy.

 

Natural heartburn therapies include deglycyrrhizinated licorice

extract or DGI. Try one or two 380 mg tablets on an empty stomach,

three to four times a day.

 

A glass of room temperature water, raw cabbage or potato juice

(organic) or herbal teas, (lukewarm, no lemon) can bring quick

relief. Fresh organic papaya or banana can help as well.

 

If you do need to lower your stomach 'acidity' you can use a form of

organic sulfur called MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) in supplement

form, 1,000 mg daily.

 

Remember, your stomach " acid " is one of your front line defenses

against harmful bacteria.

Suppress it and the rest of your systems have to work " overtime " to

protect you.

 

Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D

is a best-selling author in the field

of health and nutrition. This excerpt is from his latest book,

" Prescription Alternatives " co-authored with Virginia Hopkins.

------------------------------

Digestive Cocktail:

Every one of the ingredients in this tasty dessert contains

significant amounts of stomach-soothing " anti-ulcer " compounds.

 

Pineapple

Blueberries

Raw Honey (optional)

Unripe Bananas

Ground cinnamon

Ground cloves

Ground ginger

Cut up the bananas and pineapple, the amount and proportions will

vary depending on how many people you're serving and which fruits

you like the best. Place them in a serving bowl and add the blueberries.

 

 

Season to taste with the cinnamon, cloves and ginger (try to be

generous) and sweeten with raw honey if desired.

 

If you like, you can also make a between meal drink by

blending blueberry juice, pineapple juice, a banana and the spices

listed above. Garnish each serving with a peppermint sprig.

--

Ginger is well known for its anti-inflammatory activity, but its

considerably less known as an herbal treatment for Indigestion.

 

In fact, ginger contains 11 compounds that have demonstrated anti-

ulcer effects. These chemical compounds are a real mouthful, but I

think that you might find it interesting to know just how much

anti-ulcer chemistry can be concentrated in a single humble spice.

 

Here they are in order, from most to least abundant:

6 shogaol, 6 gingerol, 8shogaol, 8 gingerol, 10 gingerol, ar-curcumene,

beta-bisalene, 6-gingediol,

betases quiphellan-drene, 6 gingerdione and 6 paradol.

 

Eating ginger root is a pleasant tasting treatment for ulcers, according

to Paul Schulick, New England herbalist and author.

 

The combination of honey and ginger in particularly effective. In

addition to the " antibacterial " compounds, that are

available from ginger, raw honey has antibacterial action, and the two

together seem to produce " synergistic " effects.

 

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) –

German physicians have always been more open to herbal medicine than

doctors in the United Sates, and they have researched herbal

alternative extensively. Commission E, the body of scientists that

advises the German counterpart of the Food and Drug Administration,

approves licorice as a " digestive aid " .

 

This recommendation is based on the medical traditions of Asia, the

middle east and Europe, plus literally dozens of scientific studies.

 

Licorice root contains several compounds, including glycyrrhizin acid.

Licorice and its extracts are safe for normal use in moderate amounts,

up to about three cups of tea a day.

 

It is better to use a slightly processed form of the herb called

deglycyrrhizated licorice

(DGL). In one good study, DGL was at least as effective in speeding

healing as the newest class of pharmaceutical drugs called

'histamine' blocking agents that were designed to do this.

 

DGL also seems to protect the digestive lining from aspirin's ulcer

" promoting " effects. Commercial licorice preparations containing DGL are

readily available in natural health food stores.

 

If you have digestive problems, this is the preferred form of licorice

to take, but clearly some of the " power " of the herbs is lost with the

lost glycyrrhizin. If you'd like to take licorice from time to time, as

an ulcer preventive,when you're brewing some other herbal tea, add a

little licorice.

Licorice by itself makes a sweet, pleasant tasting tea, and when

added to other teas, it serves as a sweetener.

H. pylori virus is linked to the rising risks of stomach *cancer*, and

we must take these conditions seriously.

 

Unripe Banana -

Bananas are an old folk remedy for many gastrointestinal problems

because they sooth the digestive tract. And studies with

experimental animals suggest that bananas do, in fact, have a soothing

effect on the stomach.

One researcher noted that " bananas " may be another useful addition to

such well established anti-ulcer foods as raw cabbage, green tea,

garlic and legumes.

 

Raw Cabbage juice —

is a hallowed folk remedy for ulcers. It turns out that cabbage and

its juice contain considerable amounts of two compounds with anti-

ulcer activity, glutamine and S-Methyl-methionine.

 

Melvin Werbach, M.D. assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at

the University of California, Los Angeles, school of medicine and

author to the excellent nutritional influences on illness, cites a

study of people with digestive ailments who were given raw cabbage juice

as a treatment.

Ninety-two percent showed significant improvement within three weeks

 

=== message truncated ===

 

 

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

http://www.worldwidehealth.com/Library/article.php/aluminium11092002.html

 

" Toxicologists we’ve spoken with believe that anything considered large

molecularly is not absorbed into the skin because of its size. Naturally

occurring alum is a large molecule and simply not very easily absorbed in

to the body. Toxicologists suggest that aluminium build-up has more to do

with what is taken internally such as the foods we eat and cooking utensils

used. Most common kitchen cookware is made with aluminium and many foods

consumed daily, such as baking soda, pickles and most ant-acids (Tums,

Rennies etc.) contain aluminium. "

 

http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/DVH/Uses/0,3915,98%7CTums,00.html ( I only put

this in here to prove a point that TUMS are not harmless and even the

medical profession should know this.)

 

" Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of

this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. "

 

 

 

There are so many other ways to get calcium without taking stuff like this.

Broccoli is one way and I am sure there are tons more, but I am in a bit of

a brain fog from a migraine I had earlier. I am sure others will have

links. But my best advice would be to GOOGLE IT! :-) I find it

ridiculous how so many people use a medication that was intended for one

purpose to treat another problem. The worst is the docs that tell people

to do this in the first place.

 

Kelly

 

 

 

 

> [Original Message]

> sunnydelite sunnydelite <ssunnydelite

>

> 4/28/2005 4:15:55 PM

> Re: How to Escape the Dangers of

Antacids and Resolve Heartburn Naturally

>

> Hi JoAnn,

> You have mentioned below that Tums taken over a period of time can be

harmful. Can you tell me from where you have got this information or

provide the links. I know plenty of friend's kids who take tums on a daliy

basis for several years for the calcium. A couple of are allergic to dairy

and take several a day to make up for the calcium. If it is really harmful,

I would like to pass on that information to my friends.

> Thanks,

> S