Acid Reflux

Dear Dr. Meletis,

I have a patient with reflux and I recall you gave a lecture on substances that can coat the esophagus and allow it to heal, e.g. DGL, marshmallow, aloe and others. I know that ellagic acid can cut stomach acid production (not sure how much or how often). Can you suggest a product that can help with this? Please advise.

Sincerely,

Dr. B.

Dear Dr. B.,

Thank you for the excellent question. My general approach with reflux includes obviously ruling out H. Pylori. If present, the same product I generally use for mild to moderate reflux called CeaseFire® can assist with H. Pylori according to some research. CeaseFire contains DGL, a special extract of licorice used for gastric health and soothing. The other item in CeaseFire is mastic gum, which has anti-H. Pylori properties. My dosing of CeaseFire is 2 wafers three times per day immediately after meals or as needed, up to 8 to 10 chewable wafers per day, depending on individual need and tolerance.

Beyond CeaseFire, I routinely use GI Cell Support to help with GI integrity. The capsule can be opened up and swallowed with a small amount of water. Relative to your question regarding ellagic acid, I have not used this substance as a stand alone, so I can’t speak to the milligrams needed for therapeutic efficacy.

In addition to supplements, I make dietary and lifestyle recommendations probably very similar to yours. I recommend limiting liquid intake with meals to a maximum of 4 ounces to decrease mechanically induced reflux, avoiding caffeine and tobacco use and limiting chocolate. Also my patients are advised not to drink or eat 2 hours prior to bed. Often the inclusion of Digestive Enzymes with large meals will aid in digestion, support healthier gastric emptying and thus also lessen fermentation that can increase reflux.

On a side note, there is significant evidence that low levels of Iodine in the diet increases gastric disturbance, gastritis, ulcers and risk for stomach cancer. Thanks again for the thoughtful question.

Sincerely,

Chris D. Meletis, ND