Acid Reflux

Hello,

I have had severe GERD for years, and am seeking alternative therapies to Nexium. I have a couple of questions for the forum, hoping someone can suggest something for me.

1. What are the effects of having little or no stomach acid, as a result of taking a proton pump inhibitor, such as Nexium? I am concerned with long-term use and feel that there is a biological need for SOME stomach acid, otherwise, why would we have it?

2. I am planning a pregnancy in the next few months and will not take Nexium while pregnant. Does anyone have some alternative therapies to suggest?

Any input would be appreciated! Thanks!

Hi,

A study came out recently concerning your question. In addition, the site's medical expert, Dr. Eisner, wrote a blog on the topic.

There's a section on treatment as well. Has anyone else had luck with alternative therapies?

Amy

I agree, after taking Nexium for almost 5 years my appetite has decreased because when I do eat I feel like its not getting digested. I'm off nexium for 5 days now and have been experiencing heartburn but want to see what happens next.

I want my body to behave normally again.

There was recently an article on msnbc on how you could use natural remedies to treat acid-reflux instead of relying on pills and antacids. You can see the article here.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19352872/

There's also a video from the Today show featuring Dr. Leo Galland, who talks about how things like carrot juice and licorice can help treat acid-reflux. He also discusses other foods people can use in their diet as natural remedies to the problem.

Hope this helps.