Heartburn occurs when hydrochloric acid (which is used by the stomach to break down food properly) backs up into the esophagus. This causes sensitive tissues to become irritated. In a perfect world, the sphincter prevents this from happening but when it functions improperly, the acid can surpass it and wind up in the esophagus. This is acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and 60 Million Americans are affected by it.

GERD is a chronic condition. Simply put, once it begins, a person is usually stuck with it for life. Sometimes a person can have injury to the lining of the esophagus (Esophagitis). This is s also a chronic condition. Moreover, even if the esophagus has healed with treatment, once the treatment is stopped, the injury will return in most people within a few months. Therefore once treatment for GERD is begun, it will need to be continued indefinitely in most cases.

The reflux of the stomach's liquid contents into the esophagus occurs in most people, even if they do not have GERD. However, with patients who do have GERD, the refluxed liquid contains acid more often, and the acid remains in the esophagus longer.

The primary cause of GERD is hard to identify. There probably are multiple causes but the main factors that contribute to causing GERD are:

• The Lower Esophageal Sphincter
  
  
• Hiatal Hernias
  
  
• Esophageal Contractions
  
  
• Emptying of the Stomach
  
  
• Ulcers
  
  
• Gallbladder Problems
  
  
• Stress
  
  
• Allergies
  
  
• Enzyme Deficiencies
  
  

The most common symptoms of GERD include:

• Heartburn
  
  
• Regurgitation
  
  
• Nausea
  
  

Following a diagnosis, your doctor may try to push certain prescription drugs on you such as Prevacid, Prilosec or Aciphex. The most popular choice today is Nexium. This stuff is jam packed with side effects that include: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, rash, dizziness, nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps and water retention.

Why on earth would you want to take something that will send you running to the bathroom, with a leg cramp and a pounding headache while your heart is racing and the room is spinning? No thanks!

Instead, try some natural approaches including supplementing with:

Pancreatin plus Bromelain - These are enzymes essential for proper digestion. Use as directed.

Papaya Tablets - These natural tablets can be a great source of relief from heartburn. Use as directed.

Calcium (300 mg twice daily), Magnesium (150-200 mg twice daily) & Potassium (100 mg twice daily) - By having an alkalizing effect, these minerals bind up acid in the stomach.

The herbs listed below are also great alternatives:

Aloe Vera Juice - Aids in healing the intestinal tract.

Chamomile Tea - Can relieve irritation of the esophagus.

Fennel, Ginger & Marshmallow Root - Aid in proper digestion & prevent heartburn.

Also, remember to avoid spicy foods, fatty or fried foods, alcohol, coffee, citrus fruits, tomato based foods and chocolate. Increase your intake of raw vegetables.