Acid Reflux & Indigestion

Acid Reflux & Indigestion Specialist

Everyone experiences indigestion now and then, however, when the burning sensation of indigestion and acid reflux becomes commonplace, it’s imperative that you seek a medical evaluation. At the Stengler Center in Encinitas, California, Dr. Mark LaBeau uses a holistic approach to remedy these conditions, restoring proper balance and functionality to your digestive tract. Call to schedule a consultation with Dr. LaBeau today.

WHAT ARE ACID REFLUX AND INDIGESTION?

Indigestion is a symptom that indicates acid reflux, which is also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Indigestion is a painful burning sensation in your abdomen, esophagus, and throat. It may also cause you to burp, with painful results.

GERD is a condition that occurs when the acidic liquid in your stomach escapes into your esophagus. Typically, this is because your lower esophageal sphincter is weak or fails to function properly due to laxity of the esophageal sphincter along with tightness of your diaphragm and upper abdominal muscles. Your stomach acid irritates the lining of your esophagus and can lead to longer lasting damage.

WHAT CAUSES ACID REFLUX AND INDIGESTION?

GERD, acid reflux, and indigestion are caused by a variety of factors like:

• Obesity
• Hiatal Hernias
• Digestive issues that delay the stomach from emptying
• Pregnancy

Your symptoms can become worse if you smoke, eat large meals or certain trigger foods, drink excessive alcohol or coffee, or eat late at night.

HOW ARE ACID REFLUX AND INDIGESTION TREATED?

Eat basic, whole foods that have not been stripped of their natural fiber like whole grains, raw vegetables, and raw nuts and seeds. It’s better to eat several smaller meals throughout the day instead of fewer larger meals.

Avoid heavy, greasy foods that have a lot of saturated, hydrogenated, and partially hydrogenated fats. They are more difficult to digest, linger in the stomach, and trigger acid reflux. Caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods can also irritate your stomach.

Drink plenty of water to maintain good digestive health. Ideally, you should drink a glass of water for every two hours you are awake. Drinking a glass of water when you start to feel your symptoms can also help dilute and neutralize your rising stomach acids.

You should avoid eating for two to three hours before you go to bed to allow your stomach to empty.

Dr. LaBeau may prescribe nutritional and homeopathic supplements to reduce your reflux like aloe vera, DGL, limonene extract, and homeopathic medicines.  Also, as an Osteopathic physician, he would evaluate and treat any effects of stress and trauma to the upper abdomen.

Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress effectively, and avoiding cigarettes can help to improve symptoms related to acid reflux and indigestion.

If you live with acid reflux and indigestion, call or make an appointment online today. You don’t need to rely on medicine to mask your symptoms when a holistic approach can resolve the root cause of your discomfort.

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