010: Stomach Problems & GERD

Dr. Meaghan explains how the stomach works and what happens when someone is experiencing reflux symptoms.  Listen while Wendy answers one question after another correctly about the stomach and how it works.  We explain in an easy to understand way how you can help to control reflux symptoms.
 
Podcast: 010 Stomach problems and GERD
Reflux concerns affect 7 million Americans. 
The stomach is the “mixing sack” in the body that is responsible for really getting digestion going.  It mixes many different gastric juices with food including HCl (Hydrochloric Acid).
HCl is produced by the parietal cells in the stomach and is responsible for two main functions:
1.     Breakdown food, especially proteins.  Proteins need to be denatured so they are harder to breakdown and the HCl is responsible for this function.
2.     Kill off bacteria and other microbes that we might be exposed to from food sources.  Not many biological organisms can survive in a pH of 2.0.
Many times reflux and digestive problems will occur because there is a problem with stomach acid production.  Supporting digestion and stomach acid will help to relieve and correct the deficiency.
Gallbladder and bile flow can be linked to problems with HCl production because the bile salts from the bile donate chloride to the hydrochloric acid.  Therefore, especially if you have problems with fatty foods, supporting proper bile flow and the gallbladder can help with digestion.
During attacks and active times of reflux discomfort, stay away from acidic and fatty foods.Citrus foods and tomatoes can tend to cause a lot of discomfort for reflux.
Digestive enzymes and Betaine HCl can help with stomach support. 
If you are having a lot of issues than see a provider that can help you.  Functional medicine practitioners are usually great at being able to help to manage reflux disorders.
GERD medications have a few side effects to remember when taken for long-term.  These include bone and teeth concerns and increased risk for gut infections.
If you have any questions or concerns, please send them to us by going to the “Ask Us” section at www.btbha.com. 
Thanks for listening.  Remember be kind to others, take care of yourself and make good choices!