We
are discussing here the relationship between
Acidophilus and
Heartburn
It
may be good to know that Lactobacillus Acidophilus
is a lactic acid producing bacteria that is
believed to have beneficial effects on digestion
and overall health. What however was not known is
the fact that acidophilus supplements in powder
form can protect the esophagus without destroying
the acid (as it is essential for digestion) while
at the same time it kills the GER pain. But this
may be only half the story since the other half
involves tightening of the LES (lower esophageal
sphincter) as otherwise the cycle would not be
complete.
But
let us first concentrate on keeping the esophagus
relaxed and then fix the LES. And to do that, one
has to take acidophilus supplements (in powder
form) along with digestive enzymes at mid-meal or
whenever the pain threatens to overcome. One
however has to keep both the medications handy, so
that effective treatment procedure is not
discontinued, even for a shorter period. The
‘trick of the trade’ lies in breaking open the
capsule and depositing the powder into the mouth,
allowing the saliva to roll it down the esophagus
till it reaches the stomach effecting the magical
cure. Incidentally, the secret behind the solution
lies in the supplement that contains billions of
‘good boy’ bacteria that we should have in the
gastrointestinal tract to effect healthy digestive
environment while the added enzymes help in the
digestion.
As
for availability, dosage and method of taking the
supplement, please read on. Acidophilus, which is
available at most supplement stores as well as
through the web, is said to be most effective when
refrigerated in capsule form (powdered) and then
the powder thrown into the mouth preferably sans
water. ¼ to ½ teaspoonfuls may be taken along with
the meal, before the meal or anytime the burning
sensation is felt. In case this dosage proves too
sensitive, it may be lowered or temporarily
stopped till the sensitivity reaches lower level
when the treatment may be resumed. For persons who
feel uncomfortable with dry powder in their mouth
may have a few sips of water along with
acidophilus supplement.
For
tightening of the lower esophageal sphincter which
is essential to curing GERD, some form of super
enzymes that contain a plant-based form of acid
called Betain Hydrochloride is often used.
Prolonged intake of this super enzyme may
eventually revive the lost power of the LES to
close fully, thus protecting the esophagus from
unvarying acid erosion.
We know by now that heartburn
is not the disease in itself, but just a symptom
of it. The most effective way of treating this
disease is by holistic medicines. This is because
acid reflux can happen due to many causes and it
is only holistic remedies (and not conventional
medicine) that can reach out deeper into the body
and investigate all these contributing factors.
And when all the factors are investigated and
treated, the symptoms of the disease go away. This
approach of treating the body as a whole in indeed
better than just treating the symptoms of the
disease. This is why holistic medicines are so
much more effective than conventional
drugs.
