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Keeping GERD in Check

Comments Off 07 October 2009

Keeping GERD in Check

By Lisa Owens

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disease characterized by the backward flow of stomach acid or bile into your esophagus¹. This backward flow irritates and inflames the esophageal lining. This causes the classic symptoms of GERD: heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, coughing, or wheezing. These symptoms are more common at night, and can interfere with a good nights rest².

Many times acid reflux and GERD are thought to be the same thing. In actuality acid reflux can be a symptom of GERD. Acid reflux is less severe and can eventually turn into the more severe GERD if not regulated. Many people experience the discomfort of heartburn, but do not realize it can evolve into something more severe. If you already have acid reflux symptoms, there are a few simple changes in lifestyle can help relieve symptoms and keep acid reflux from developing into GERD².

The following are a few simple suggestions to keep GERD symptoms in check³:

Small, frequent meals -

Large meals are often a trigger for GERD symptoms. When your stomach is full the valve between the stomach and your esophagus relaxes causing stomach acid to be pushed back into the esophagus. In order to prevent this from happening try to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. This will keep your symptoms in check, and will also keep your hunger in check.

Find your trigger -

Certain foods are known to cause heartburn. Those can include foods that are acidic, fatty, or fried. If something causes heartburn try using substitutes. Applesauce, for example, can be substituted for oil in baked goods. Beans can also be an alternative substitute for meat that still gives you the protein and fiber you need. Adding certain foods, such as more oatmeal, to your diet can also help alleviate symptoms. Talk to your doctor about which foods may help relieve symptoms, and which foods may be causing symptoms.

Don’t drink alcohol, and don’t smoke -

Alcohol and nicotine both relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which lets stomach acid leak back into the esophagus. The American Journal of Medicine reported in 1999 that the percentage of acid reflux symptoms reported increased with the number of drinks the person consumed weekly. Smoking and alcohol both worsen symptoms. Smoking is not only damaging to the heart and lungs; it is damaging to your digestive system. Keep that in mind next time you light up.

Those are a few suggestions to try next time heartburn starts to flair up. As always it’s important to talk to your doctor about treatments.

Notes:

1. Mayo Clinic. “How GERD Occurs”. Mayo Clinic.com.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gerd/DS00967.

2. Mayo Clinic. “Acid reflux and GERD: The same thing?” Michael Picco, M.D. Mayo Clinic.com .

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/AN00998

3. Health.com. “Heartburn-Easing Foods that Fight GERD” Health.com.

http://slideshows.health.com/slide_shows/10507/slides/12452

Diet, General Health

Healthy Teeth – Healthy You

Comments Off 07 October 2009

Healthy Teeth – Healthy You

By Lisa Owens

Ever since you were a kid you’ve been taught the importance of brushing your teeth two or three times a day, and flossing at least once a day. You know that keeping your teeth clean will prevent gingivitis, gum disease, cavities, plaque build-up, and unnecessary dental bills. However, what most people don’t know is that keeping your mouth clean may also play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, and other systemic diseases¹.

Every mouth contains bacteria, but that bacteria is usually kept in check with good oral hygiene. That bacteria can get out of control if oral hygiene is slacking, and a gum infection known as Periodontitis can form³. Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease, and this infection opens up a door for bacteria to get from your mouth into your bloodstream. Some researchers believe this may be a factor in many other health problems. These health problems include diabetes, heart disease, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, and low-birth weight babies². Bad oral health can also impair the body’s ability to chew and digest food, and this can lead to digestive problems. The research has only been able to show that Periodontitis is linked to other health problems, and there is no evidence that one causes the other^3,4. However, that is no reason to ignore the link between oral hygiene, and overall health. Good oral hygiene will help keep Periodontitis and other oral problems away, which in turn may keep your risk for diabetes and heart disease down.

So now that you know the risks what more can you do beyond regular brushing and flossing? The Mayo Clinic has a few recommendations to help¹.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day.

2. Use a toothpaste with Fluoride.

3. Eat a Balanced Diet.

4. Visit the dentist twice a year.

5. Tell your dentist about any health issues, such as Diabetes, that you may have.

Notes:

1. Mayo Clinic. “Oral Health: A Window To Your Overall Health.” Mayo Clinic.com. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dental/DE00001.

2. ADA. “Oral-Systemic Health (Your Oral Health and Overall Health).” American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/oralsystemic_gumdisease.asp.

3. Mayo Clinic. “Oral Health: A Window to Your Overall Health.” Tools for Healthier Lives: Dental. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dental/DE00001.

4. Health Canada. “The Effects of Oral Health on Overall Health.” Health Canada – Healthy Living. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/life-vie/dent-eng.php.

Keeping GERD in Check

Healthy Teeth – Healthy You

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