The pathogenesis of IBS is multifactorial, with contributions from visceral hypersensitivity, enteric infection, altered GI flora, food sensitivities and allergies, neuroendocrine dysfunction or psychosocial factors.
New research on treatments for IBS highlights diet and nutrition and the immune system.
If you experience heartburn two or more times a week, you probably have GERD. Classic symptoms include sour taste in the mouth; burning in the throat; stomach acid rising; chest pain; and burping. Other more “silent” symptoms of acid reflux/GERD include trouble swallowing, dry cough, hoarseness and the sensation of a lump in your throat. Many people with these symptoms of silent reflux never experience classic symptoms.
Diet plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of GERD. Foods that can trigger GERD: Fatty or fried foods, coffee, tea, alcohol, spicy foods, oranges and other citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, carbonated beverages, chocolate, and mint.
Foods that help prevent GERD: Leafy greens, melons, bananas, oatmeal, tofu, fennel, parsley, and rice.
Both alcohol and caffeinated beverages can increase acid production in the stomach. Limit yourself to 1-2 cups of coffee or tea a day, and if you do drink alcohol, drink in moderation – that’s 2 drinks a day for men and 1 for women. If you suffer from chronic GERD, you may want to cut out these beverages altogether.
Drink plenty of water – at least 6-8 cups a day – to help neutralize and rinse out stomach acid that has refluxed into the esophagus.
If you experience symptoms of GERD during sleeping hours, try elevating the head of your bed by at least 6 inches. This can be done by placing wood or cement blocks under the feet of the bed, or by inserting a wedge between the mattress and the box spring. Just adding more pillows will not work, because you need to raise your head higher than your stomach. It may be awkward sleeping this way at first, but it will help keep stomach acid from rising.
Research shows that the more excess weight you carry, the more likely you are to suffer from GERD. Belly fat puts pressure on the stomach, causing fluids to rise up. If you are overweight, losing even 5-10 pounds can reduce your chance of developing GERD.
Please make an appointment to be evaluated to find out the underlying reason for any gastrointestinal disorder you may suffer from. We can help naturally…
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