Nutrition Questions
Vital Health Zone is proud to announce Lesa Rusher, who is our resident naturopathic expert and who is available to answer questions about nutrition and health.
Lesa Rusher is a qualified naturopath with a thriving business in Canberra, Australia and has a wealth of experience treating clients on a variety of health issues. Lesa Rusher's full credentials can be found in our experts area.
Lesa Rusher will answer your nutrition-related questions.
Q: What sort of diet or natural methods (herbs, vitamins, minerals or other alternative remedies) would you recommend for reflux?
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A: Reflux is the commonly used term to describe the condition known as gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD for short).
GERD (or reflux) is a very common disorder, where the contents of the stomach (partially digested food and stomach acids) come up, out of the stomach into the eosophagus and cause inflammation, ulceration and discomfort or pain. GERD often causes heartburn and indigestion.
The alternative or complementary method of treating GERD is through a combination of herbs, some of which have mucilaginous properties (slippery elm and marshmallow) and those which add fibre and help the digestive system function more properly (psyllium), together with specific vitamins that can actually heal the eosophagus from the damage caused by the GERD (vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E), as well as zinc, a mineral known to help with healing, plus some other nutrients which help the digestive system function properly (probiotics and digestive enzymes) and the omega-3 fatty acids, to help reduce inflammation.
In addition to this, it is recommended to modify your diet (don't eat large meals, don't eat late at night just before bed, don't lie down straight after eating, reduce alcohol, caffeine and fatty food intake) and lifestyle modifications (don't wear tight fitting clothes around the stomach area, elevate pillows, stop smoking), to help reduce symptoms.
People taking any medications for GERD should consult their doctor prior to taking any supplements as there could be an interaction.
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Consult with your medical physician regarding appropriateness of using supplements in your healing process.
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