ACID REFLUX (GERD)

GASTROINTESTINAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD)

When the acidic juices of the stomach splash upward into the esphpagus, the result is heartburn. Normally, a ring of muscles called the esophageal sphincter prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus. But if the muscles relax or open under pressure from acidic juices in the stomach, heartburn may result. Everyone gets heartburn from time to time, but severe, persistent heartburn that occurs two or more times per week in called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Chronic GERD has the potential to scar and damage the lining of the esophagus. It can also lead to a condition called Barrett's esophagus, which carries the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Heartburn has many different causes. Heartburn may be caused by overeating, stress, wearing cloths that fit too tightly, and lying down soon after eating. Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine relax the esophageal sphincter and allow stomach acid to enter the esophagus. Certain kinds of spicy food can also cause heartburn in some people. Poor digestion is another major contributor to GERD.

Helpful Nutritional Protocol:

Primal Defense: Start with one caplet per day on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before or one hour before meals. Increase usage by adding one additional caplet per day (i.e. one caplet the firt day, two the second day, three the third day and so on). Once your dosage is up to 12 caplet per day, stay on that amount for a minimum of three moths and then begin t gradually decrease to a maintenance dosage of between three to six caplets per day. Primal Defense is best taken first thing in the morning and right before bedtime with eight ounces of pure water. Primal defense may be taken with other nutritional supplements, but should be taken one hour apart from medications. If you experience symptoms of detoxification (i.e. increased elimination, loose stools, constipation, excess gas, flu-like symptoms or fever), reduce the dosage and work up slowly to 12 per day.

Omega-Zyme: Take one to three caplets with each meal or snack.

Acid Defense: Take one to two tablespoons mixed in water upon rising and before bed. This supplement can be taken to relieve symptoms of pain during an episode of heartburn.

Perfect Food: Take two tablespoons or 5 caplets twice daily with eight ounces water or fresh vegetable juice.

Springs of Life: Consume at least eight, eight-ounce glasses per day of purified water mixed with 12 drops of Springs of Life living water concentrate.

Super Seed: Consume one serving twice per day, morning and evening, with eight or more ounces of purified water.

Goatein: The only protein powder on the market made from organically produced goat�s milk. This protein powder is partially pre-digested, low temperature dried and is usually well tolerated by those with food allergies and digestive problems. Take one to four tablespoons per day mixed in water, juice, smoothies, yogurt or can be used in baking. (For those with known milk allergies and/or lactose intolerance it is best to add Goatein once symptoms have begun to improve.)

ADDITIONAL THERAPIES

For people who have or may have imbalanced intestinal flora, avoiding contact with chlorinated water is of utmost importance. This includes bathing/shower water and drinking water. Chlorine kills bacteria, friendly and unfriendly in the intestines. It can be absorbed through the skin. Two products to help eliminate chlorine are:

Counter-top Drinking Water Filter

Shower Filter