Beat acid reflux naturally: is your medication helping or harming?

By Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp, DC

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide, often used to reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. While these medications can be effective in the short term, emerging research has begun to illuminate the significant health consequences associated with their long-term use. A 2019 comprehensive review published in the journal Gastroenterology Research and Practice confirms that “prolonged PPI use may lead to clinically significant adverse effects,” including increased risks of bone fractures, kidney disease, and certain infections. This growing body of evidence highlights the importance of exploring alternative approaches to digestive health, such as strategies to beat acid reflux naturally, for more sustainable and holistic solutions for managing acid reflux symptoms.

What are PPIs?

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) work by blocking the enzyme responsible for producing stomach acid. They are often prescribed to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach ulcers, and esophagitis. Common PPIs include omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), and lansoprazole (Prevacid).

While these medications effectively reduce stomach acid, they are often overprescribed and used for extended periods, leading to a host of potential health issues.

The impact of PPIs on health

1. Disruption of digestion

Stomach acid is essential for breaking down food, particularly proteins, and for absorbing key nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, and magnesium. PPIs reduce stomach acid, which can lead to incomplete digestion and poor nutrient absorption. Over time, this can contribute to conditions like osteoporosis, anemia, and muscle weakness.

2. Increased risk of migraines

Recent studies have linked the use of PPIs to a higher risk of migraines. Research from the University of Maryland found that people who use PPIs have a 70 per cent increased risk of experiencing migraines compared to non-users. This is believed to be due to the disruption of ion balance in the brain, which affects nerve activity and potentially triggers migraines.

3. Gut health and dysbiosis

Stomach acid plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome by controlling the growth of harmful bacteria. Reduced acid levels caused by PPIs can lead to dysbiosis, an imbalance between harmful and beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can increase the risk of infections and contribute to conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

4. Increased risk of bone fractures

Long-term PPI use has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in older adults. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that PPI use was associated with a 33 per cent increased risk of fractures.

5. Potential kidney problems

Studies have linked prolonged PPI use to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that PPI users had a 20 to 50 per cent higher risk of chronic kidney disease compared to non-users.

6. Increased risk of certain infections

The reduction in stomach acid can increase susceptibility to certain infections. For example, PPI use has been associated with an increased risk of Clostridium Difficile infections, as well as community-acquired pneumonia, according to a 2015 review, Risk of community-acquired pneumonia with outpatient proton-pump inhibitor therapy: a systemic review and meta-analysis.

How digestion works

Digestion is a complex process that begins in the mouth and continues through the stomach and intestines. It involves the breakdown of food into smaller molecules that can be absorbed and utilized by the body for energy, growth, and repair. The digestive process starts in the mouth, where chewing and saliva help to break down food mechanically and chemically. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestion of carbohydrates and fats.

When food reaches the stomach, it is mixed with gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid (HCl) and digestive enzymes. HCl plays a crucial role in several aspects of digestion – it creates the optimal pH for the activation of pepsin, an enzyme that starts the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides. The highly acidic stomach environment (pH 1.5-3.5) acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria and other pathogens that may have been ingested with food, protecting the body from infections. Stomach acid is necessary for the proper absorption of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. Additionally, this acidic environment triggers the proper closing of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), preventing acid from escaping back into the esophagus and causing acid reflux or heartburn.

After leaving the stomach, the partially digested food (chyme) enters the small intestine, where it is further broken down by enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver. This process continues until the nutrients are small enough to be absorbed through the intestinal walls and into the bloodstream.

As PPIs work to inhibit stomach acid production, they disrupt the natural digestive process, potentially leading to various health issues. These may include nutrient deficiencies, an increased risk of infections due to a less acidic stomach environment, and impaired absorption of essential nutrients. Additionally, long-term PPI use has been associated with an increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis, kidney disease, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Beat acid reflux naturally

The good news is that there is a myriad of alternative solutions for managing heartburn and acid reflux that not only address the symptoms but also support our long-term health:

Dietary changes
One of the most effective ways to manage acid reflux is through diet. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can significantly reduce symptoms. Incorporating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet can also improve digestive health.

Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help balance stomach acid levels. Taking one tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water before meals can aid digestion and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the esophagus and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Drinking half a cup of aloe vera juice before meals can help manage symptoms naturally.

Ginger root
Ginger has been shown to have gastroprotective effects and can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux by accelerating gastric emptying. Adding fresh ginger root to hot water to make tea can be a natural remedy for heartburn.

Probiotics
Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential for preventing acid reflux. Probiotics found in fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, and kefir can support gut health and improve digestion.

L-Glutamine
L-glutamine is an amino acid that helps repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Supplementing with L-glutamine can support gut health and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Betaine HCl supplementation
As we age, the production of HCL decreases, which leads to an underactive stomach and difficulty absorbing nutrients from food. For individuals with low stomach acid, supplementing with betaine HCl can help restore proper acid levels and improve digestion. This can prevent the need for PPIs by addressing the root cause of acid reflux. To determine if you require betaine supplementation, here is a simple and inexpensive way to test for low stomach acid levels:  

1. Purchase betaine HCL supplements: Betaine HCL supplements can be found at most health food stores or online. Look for a supplement that contains at least 650 milligrams of betaine HCL.
2. Begin with a low dose: Start with a low dose of betaine HCL, such as one capsule of 650 milligrams, and take it with a protein-rich meal.
3. Observe any changes: After taking the supplement, pay attention to any changes in digestion. You may feel a warming or burning sensation in your stomach or notice improved digestion, such as less bloating or gas.
4. Increase the dose: If you do not notice any changes in digestion, gradually increase the dose of betaine HCL by one capsule at a time with each meal, up to a maximum of six capsules.
5. Find the right dosage: Once you feel a warming or burning sensation in your stomach or notice improved digestion, reduce the dosage by one capsule until you find the lowest effective dose.

While PPIs offer quick relief for acid reflux, their long-term use raises valid health concerns. The natural solutions discussed offer more than just symptom relief—they’re a chance to tune into our body’s needs and promote genuine digestive health. While it may take some trial and error, the potential payoff is significant: feeling better without relying on long-term medication. With so many effective options available, there’s never been a better time to explore alternatives and take charge of your digestive wellness.

NOTE: This article is not meant as medical advice. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication or treatment plan.

Yours in health,
Dr. Nathalie

Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp, B.Sc., D.C., IFMCP is the author of the book—Hack Your Health Habits: Simple, Action-Driven, Natural Solutions For People On The Go and the creator of several online health education programs. Dr. Nathalie’s mission is to educate, lead and empower people to take control of their health. She recently launched a new book https://smartcuts.life/
www.drnathaliebeauchamp.com

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