Here's the trick: The most obvious approach to elevating the head - usually two more pillows - is usually two or more pillows - is usually ineffective, because pillows raise only the head and neck, not the chest, where most of the esophagus and the LES are located. The most effective way to elevate the esophagus and LES is to placed something under the mattress, such as a bed wedge or an escalating series of telephone books. Bed blocks are another option. These are placed under the legs at the head of the bed to achieve a sloping elevation from foot to head. The most costly approach is a hospital-type bed with manual or electric position adjustments.
For some people who do not notice nighttime symptoms but who have other symptoms of complications, elevating the head of the bed by about six inches and avoiding eating for several hours before lying down are recommended steps to promote esophageal healing. These steps are recommended for people with documented esophagitis even if they have no symptoms at all.
Large Meal Before Bedtime
It has long been known that eating - and, especially, eating to large or fatty meal - shortly before lying down is a precipitant of GERD symptoms in susceptible individuals. In fact, even in people without noticeable GERD symptoms, eating a large meal before bedtime is sometimes associated with abdominal discomfort. At the least, their uncomfortable feeling of fullness is made worse when they lie down flat.
This situation is a simple matter of physics. When a person is standing or sitting, the esophagus is higher than the stomach, and the downward pull gravity helps prevent acid reflux. But when a person is lying down, the esophagus and stomach are essentially on the same level. In the position, acid can roll back up into the esophagus very easily, somewhat like the ocean coming in at high tide. When we lie flat, the contents of a full stomach tend to flow upward toward the LES, which is not a perfect barrier, even in people without GERD. For people with GERD, lyig down within three or four hours after eating may cause any remaining food and acid in the stomach to reflux into the esophagus - the stimulus for symptoms of GERD.
It's important to remain upright for at least three hours after a meal, and longer after a large or heavy meal. Another step to take to avoid reflux episodes is to elevate the head of the bed. For many people with GERD, nighttime is the time when they develop symptoms. This is true in part because when we are asleep, we produce less saliva and swallow less often. Swallowing saliva helps neutralize and clear away any refluxed acid; less swallowing means that the stomach acid is more concentrated - stronger - and therefore more likely to cause irritation. While elevating the head of the bed does not increase the amount of saliva or the frequently of swallowing. It does help reduce the flow of stomach acid into the LES. Elevating the head of the bed can often markedly improve GERD symptoms.
This situation is a simple matter of physics. When a person is standing or sitting, the esophagus is higher than the stomach, and the downward pull gravity helps prevent acid reflux. But when a person is lying down, the esophagus and stomach are essentially on the same level. In the position, acid can roll back up into the esophagus very easily, somewhat like the ocean coming in at high tide. When we lie flat, the contents of a full stomach tend to flow upward toward the LES, which is not a perfect barrier, even in people without GERD. For people with GERD, lyig down within three or four hours after eating may cause any remaining food and acid in the stomach to reflux into the esophagus - the stimulus for symptoms of GERD.
It's important to remain upright for at least three hours after a meal, and longer after a large or heavy meal. Another step to take to avoid reflux episodes is to elevate the head of the bed. For many people with GERD, nighttime is the time when they develop symptoms. This is true in part because when we are asleep, we produce less saliva and swallow less often. Swallowing saliva helps neutralize and clear away any refluxed acid; less swallowing means that the stomach acid is more concentrated - stronger - and therefore more likely to cause irritation. While elevating the head of the bed does not increase the amount of saliva or the frequently of swallowing. It does help reduce the flow of stomach acid into the LES. Elevating the head of the bed can often markedly improve GERD symptoms.
Chicken Noodle Soup
The ultimate in comfort, chicken noodle soup is claimed to be penicillin by at least four ethic groups that i know of. Normally, chicken soup contains a large amount of onions, for both flavor and the golden color the onion skins add to the broth. We have left out the onion, but included all of the other ingredients necessary for good chicken soup. This soup calls for wide noodles, but cooked rice, barley, indeed any cooked grain, pasta, or dumpling is wonderful in this soup. For added fiber, try using whole-wheat pasta instead of regular noodles.
Make 8 servings.
Source:Eating for acid reflux by jill sklar and annabel cohen
- 1 3/4 pound chicken, cut into pieces
- 3 quarts water
- 2 cup 2-inch carrot pieces
- 1 cup 2-inch parsnip pieces
- 1 cup 2-inch turnip pieces
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup parsley sprigs
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, uncut
- Salt to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 ounces dry extra-wide noodles
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Combine chicken and water in a large pot; bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes and skim the foam or scum from the surface.
- Add remaining ingredients, except noodles and carrot rounds, and bring to a boil again. Reduce heat to a low boil, cover, and cook the soup for 1 1/2 hours, adding more water as needed
- Remove the soup from the heat and strain, removing the chicken and discarding the remaining ingredients.
- Allow the chicken to cook and remove meat, discarding the skin and bones. Cut the chicken into1/2 inch pieces and add the strained broth. Cool the soup and chill, covered overnight.
- Remove the chilled, hardened fat from the soup and discard. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, adding the noodles, carrot rounds, and salt to taste. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 -15 minutes until the carrots are tender, adding more liquid if the soup is too condensed. Serve hot.
Make 8 servings.
Source:Eating for acid reflux by jill sklar and annabel cohen
Heartburn Overview
Everything You Need To Know About Heartburn
Definition
Heartburn, a symptom of acid reflux, is a burning sensation in the chest that can extend to the neck, throat, and face; it is worsened by bending or lying down. It is the primary symptom of gastroesophageal reflux, which is the movement of stomach acid into the esophagus. On rare occasions, it is due to gastritis (stomach lining inflammation).
Description
More than one-third of the population is afflicted by heartburn, with about one-tenth afflicted daily. Infrequent heartburn is usually without serious consequences, but chronic or frequent heartburn (recurring more than twice per week) can have severe consequences. Accordingly, early management is important.
Understanding heartburn depends on understanding the structure and action of the esophagus. The esophagus is a tube connecting the throat to the stomach. It is about 10 in (25 cm) long in adults, lined with squamous (plate-like) epithelial cells, coated with mucus, and surrounded by muscles that push food to the stomach by sequential waves of contraction (peristalsis). The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is a thick band of muscles that encircles the esophagus just above the uppermost part of the stomach. This sphincter is usually tightly closed and normally opens only when food passes from the esophagus into the stomach. Thus, the contents of the stomach are normally kept from moving back into the esophagus.
The stomach has a thick mucous coating that protects it from the strong acid it secretes into its interior when food is present, but the much thinner esophageal coating doesn't provide protection against acid. Thus, if the LES opens inappropriately or fails to close completely, and stomach contents leak into the esophagus, the esophagus can be burned by acid. The resulting burning sensation is called heartburn.
Occasional heartburn has no serious long-lasting effects, but repeated episodes of gastroesophageal reflux can ultimately lead to esophageal inflammation (esophagitis) and other damage. If episodes occur more frequently than twice a week, and the esophagus is repeatedly subjected to acid and digestive enzymes from the stomach, ulcerations, scarring, and thickening of the esophagus walls can result. This thickening of the esophagus wall causes a narrowing of the interior of the esophagus. Such narrowing affects swallowing and peristaltic movements. Repeated irritation can also result in changes in the types of cells that line the esophagus. The condition associated with these changes is termed Barrett's syndrome and can lead to esophageal cancer.
Causes and symptoms
Causes
A number of different factors may contribute to LES malfunction with its consequent gastroesophageal acid reflux:
- The eating of large meals that distend the stomach can cause the LES to open inappropriately.
- Lying down within two to three hours of eating can cause the LES to open.
- Obesity, pregnancy, and tight clothing can impair the ability of the LES to stay closed by putting pressure on the abdomen.
- Certain drugs, notably nicotine, alcohol, diazepam (Valium), meperidine (Demerol), theophylline, morphine, prostaglandins, calcium channel blockers, nitrate heart medications, anticholinergic and adrenergic drugs (drugs that limit nerve reactions), including dopamine, can relax the LES.
- Progesterone is thought to relax the LES.
- Greasy foods and some other foods such as chocolate, coffee, and peppermint can relax the LES.
- Paralysis and scleroderma can cause the LES to malfunction.
- Hiatus hernia may also cause heartburn according to some gastroenterologists. (Hiatus hernia is a protrusion of part of the stomach through the diaphragm to a position next to the esophagus.)
Symptoms
Heartburn itself is a symptom. Other symptoms also caused by gastroesophageal reflux can be associated with heartburn. Often heartburn sufferers salivate excessively or regurgitate stomach contents into their mouths, leaving a sour or bitter taste. Frequent gastroesophageal reflux leads to additional complications including difficult or painful swallowing, sore throat, hoarseness, coughing, laryngitis, wheezing, asthma, pneumonia, gingivitis, bad breath, and earache.
Diagnosis
Gastroenterologists and internists are best equipped to diagnose and treat gastroesophageal reflux. Diagnosis is usually based solely on patient histories that report heartburn and other related symptoms. Additional diagnostic procedures can confirm the diagnosis and assess damage to the esophagus, as well as monitor healing progress. The following diagnostic procedures are appropriate for anyone who has frequent, chronic, or difficult-to-treat heartburn or any of the complicating symptoms noted in the previous paragraph.
X rays taken after a patient swallows a barium suspension can reveal esophageal narrowing, ulcerations or a reflux episode as it occurs. However, this procedure cannot detect the structural changes associated with different degrees of esophagitis. This diagnostic procedure has traditionally been called the "upper GI series" or "barium swallow" and costs about $250.00.
Esophagoscopy is a newer procedure that uses a thin flexible tube to view the inside of the esophagus directly. It should be done by a gastroenterologist or gastrointestinal endoscopist and costs about $700. It gives an accurate picture of any damage present and gives the physician the ability to distinguish between different degrees of esophagitis.
Other tests may also be used. They include pressure measurements of the LES; measurements of esophageal acidity (pH), usually throughout a 24-hour period; and microscopic examination of biopsied tissue from the esophageal wall (to inspect esophageal cell structure for Barrett's syndrome and malignancies).
New technology introduced by 2003 allows for continuous monitoring of pH levels to help determine the cause. A tiny wireless capsule can be delivered to the lining of the esophagus through a catheter and data recorder on a device the size of a pager that is clipped to the patient's belt or purse for 48 hours. The capsule eventually sloughs off and passes harmlessly through the gastrointestinal tract in seven to 10 days.
Note: A burning sensation in the chest is usually heartburn and is not associated with the heart. However, chest pain that radiates into the arms and is not accompanied by regurgitation is a warning of a possible serious heart problem. Anyone with these symptoms should contact a doctor immediately.
Treatment
Drugs
Occasional heartburn is probably best treated with over-the-counter antacids. These products go straight to the esophagus and immediately begin to decrease acidity. However, they should not be used as the sole treatment for heartburn sufferers who either have two or more episodes per week or who suffer for periods of more than three weeks. There is a risk of kidney damage and other metabolic changes.
H2 blockers (histamine receptor blockers, such as Pepsid AC, Zantac, Tagamet) decrease stomach acid production and are effective against heartburn. H2 blocker treatment also allows healing of esophageal damage but is not very effective when there is a high degree of damage. It takes 30-45 minutes for these drugs to take effect, so they must be taken prior to an episode. Thus, they should be taken daily, usually two to four times per day for several weeks. Six to 12 weeks of standard-dose treatment relieves symptoms in about one-half the patients. Higher doses relieve symptoms in a greater fraction of the population, but at least 25% of heartburn sufferers are not helped by H2 blockers.
Proton-pump inhibitors also inhibit acid production by the stomach, but are much more effective than H2 blockers for some people. They are also more effective in aiding the healing process. Esophagitis is healed in about 90% of the patients undergoing proton-pump inhibitor treatment.
The long-term effects of inhibiting stomach acid production are unknown. Without the antiseptic effects of a consistently very acidic stomach environment, users of H2 blockers or proton-pump inhibitors may become more susceptible to bacterial and viral infection. Absorption of some drugs is also lowered by this less-acidic environment.
Prokinetic agents (also known as motility drugs) act on the LES, stimulating it to close more tightly, thereby keeping stomach contents out of the esophagus. It is not known how effectively these drugs promote healing. Some of the early motility drugs had serious neurological side effects, but a newer drug, cisapride, seems to act only on digestive system nerve connections.
Surgery
Fundoplication, a surgical procedure to increase pressure on the LES by stretching and wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the sphincter, is a treatment of last resort. About 10% of heartburn sufferers undergo this procedure. It is not always effective and its effectiveness may decrease over time, especially several years after surgery. Dr. Robert Marks and his colleagues at the University of Alabama reported in 1997 on the long-term outcome of this procedure. They found that 64% of the patients in their study who had fundoplication between 1992 and 1995 still suffered from heartburn and reported an impaired quality of life after the surgery.
However, laparoscopy (an examination of the interior of the abdomen by means of the laparoscope) now provides hope for better outcomes. Fundoplication performed with a laparoscope is less invasive. Five small incisions are required instead of one large incision. Patients recover faster, and it is likely that studies will show they suffer from fewer surgical complications.
Alternative treatment
Prevention, as outlined below, is a primary feature for heartburn management in alternative medicine and traditional medicine. Dietary adjustments can eliminate many causes of heartburn.
Herbal remedies include bananas, aloe vera gel, chamomile (Matricaria recutita), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and citrus juices, but there is little agreement here. For example, ginger, which seems to help some people, is claimed by other practitioners to cause heartburn and is thought to relax the LES. There are also many recommendations to avoid citrus juices, which are themselves acidic. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) can help relieve the symptoms of heartburn by reestablishing balance in the acid output of the stomach.
Several homeopathic remedies are useful in treating heartburn symptoms. Among those most often recommended are Nux vomica, Carbo vegetabilis, and Arsenicum album. Acupressure and acupuncture may also be helpful in treating heartburn.
Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is an inexpensive alternative to use as an antacid. It reduces esophageal acidity immediately, but its effect is not long-lasting and should not be used by people on sodium-restricted diets.
Prognosis
The prognosis for people who get heartburn only occasionally or people without esophageal damage is excellent. The prognosis for people with esophageal damage who become involved in a treatment program that promotes healing is also excellent. The prognosis for anyone with esophageal cancer is very poor. There is a strong likelihood of a painful illness and a less than 5% chance of surviving more than five years.
Prevention
Given the lack of completely satisfactory treatments for heartburn or its consequences and the lack of a cure for esophageal cancer, prevention is of the utmost importance. Proponents of traditional and alternative medicine agree that people disposed to heartburn should:
- avoid eating large meals
- avoid alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods, fried foods, hot or spicy foods, chocolate, peppermint, and nicotine
- avoid drugs known to contribute to heartburn, such as nitrates (heart medications such as Isonate and Nitrocap), calcium channel blockers (e.g., Cardizem and Procardia), and anticholinergic drugs (e.g., Pro-banthine and Bentyl), and check with their doctors about any drugs they are taking
- avoid clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen
- control body weight
- wait about three hours after eating before going to bed or lying down
- elevate the head of the bed 6-9 inches to alleviate heartburn at night. This can be done with bricks under the bed or with a wedge designed for this purpose.
Preventing heartburn's switch to cancer begins with preventing heartburn in the first place. A study in Great Britain in 2004 also looked at using a combination of aspirin and an anti-ulcer drug to try to prevent Barrett's esophagus from forming in patients with long-term heartburn. Aspirin has been found in previous studies to reduce cases of esophageal cancer. However, since one of its side effects is an increased risk of stomach ulcers, the researchers were including an effective anti-ulcer drug for participants.
Key Terms
- Barrett's syndrome
- Also called Barrett's esophagus or Barrett's epithelia, this is a condition where the squamous epithelial cells that normally line the esophagus are replaced by thicker columnar epithelial cells.
- Digestive enzymes
- Molecules that catalyze the breakdown of large molecules (usually food) into smaller molecules.
- Esophagitis
- Inflammation of the esophagus.
- Fundoplication
- A surgical procedure that increases pressure on the LES by stretching and wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the sphincter.
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- The flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
- Hiatus hernia
- A protrusion of part of the stomach through the diaphragm to a position next to the esophagus.
- Metabolic
- Refers to the chemical reactions in living things.
- Mucus
- Thick, viscous, gel-like material that functions to moisten and protect inner body surfaces.
- Peristalsis
- A sequence of muscle contractions that progressively squeeze one small section of the digestive tract and then the next to push food along the tract, something like pushing toothpaste out of its tube.
- Scleroderma
- An autoimmune disease with many consequences, including esophageal wall thickening.
- Squamous epithelial cells
- Thin, flat cells found in layers or sheets covering surfaces such as skin and the linings of blood vessels and esophagus.
- Ulceration
- An open break in surface tissue.
Nicotine
Cigarette smoking is a known risk factor for both GERD and ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. Smokers are also more likely to suffer from complication of GERD, such as esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal cancer.
Nicotine appears to be a culprit in GERD because it lowers pressure in the LES. In addition, smoking may directly irritate the esophagus, and it may also cause irritation indirectly, because cigarette smoking may decrease production of saliva, which helps protect the esophagus from acid. This means that any acid reflux will be more likely to cause damage in smokers than in nonsmokers, and that existing acid damage will be less likely to heal.
Stopping smoking has an immediate beneficial effect on GERD symptoms and risks. It can be very difficult to quit smoking and stay away from cigarettes, but a physician can prescribe medications or a nicotine patch to improve the chances of success. These aids are particularly effective when used in combination with techniques of behavior modification, which can be learned wither individually or in classes run by health professionals.
Nicotine appears to be a culprit in GERD because it lowers pressure in the LES. In addition, smoking may directly irritate the esophagus, and it may also cause irritation indirectly, because cigarette smoking may decrease production of saliva, which helps protect the esophagus from acid. This means that any acid reflux will be more likely to cause damage in smokers than in nonsmokers, and that existing acid damage will be less likely to heal.
Stopping smoking has an immediate beneficial effect on GERD symptoms and risks. It can be very difficult to quit smoking and stay away from cigarettes, but a physician can prescribe medications or a nicotine patch to improve the chances of success. These aids are particularly effective when used in combination with techniques of behavior modification, which can be learned wither individually or in classes run by health professionals.
Obesity and Pregnancy
Obesity is a risk factor for GERD both because of its physical effects on the body and because the type of diet that often leads to obesity is generally a diet high in fat content. Obesity, particularly when the person has a large waist circumference, increases the pressure inside the abdominal cavity, which includes the stomach. This, in turn, increases the workload on the lower esophageal sphincter, which is then less likely to be an effective barrier against reflux of stomach acid. As we have seen, a high-fat diet increase the risk of symptomatic GERD. Someone who's obese is more likely to eat foods that are high in fat and to eat larger but fewer meals per day. The strain on the LES combined with the dietary factors means that there is an increased risk of GERD in someone who is obese.
Many women develop heartburn during pregnancy. This occurs for two reasons. First, there is an increase in the pressure on the abdominal cavity as the fetus grows and the uterus enlarges. This pressure changes the anatomy of both the stomach and the gastroesophageal junction, and these physical changes make it easier for acid to reflux into the esophagus. Several studies have shown that LES pressure declines as pregnancy progress, and this low pressure, too, increases the likelihood that acid reflux will occur. Second, levels of both estrogen and progesterone in the blood are elevated during pregnancy; elevated levels of both of these sex hormones cause the LES to relax. Also, high estrogen levels and reflux are closely related.
Weight loss, through either dieting or delivery, usually improves or even eliminates GERD symptoms. Even modest amounts of weight loss in someone who is obese can lead to an improvement of symptoms right from the beginning, perhaps because the person is eating a lower-fat diet. A natural corollary to the effect of weight loss is the effect of weight gain: it can bring about GERD symptoms or make existing symptoms worse.
While we are on the subject of weight loss, we should note that exercise can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which in turn decrease the effectiveness of the lower esophageal sprincter. position changes during exercise may also precipitate reflux. These changes are reversed as soon as the exercise is finished, fortunately.
Many women develop heartburn during pregnancy. This occurs for two reasons. First, there is an increase in the pressure on the abdominal cavity as the fetus grows and the uterus enlarges. This pressure changes the anatomy of both the stomach and the gastroesophageal junction, and these physical changes make it easier for acid to reflux into the esophagus. Several studies have shown that LES pressure declines as pregnancy progress, and this low pressure, too, increases the likelihood that acid reflux will occur. Second, levels of both estrogen and progesterone in the blood are elevated during pregnancy; elevated levels of both of these sex hormones cause the LES to relax. Also, high estrogen levels and reflux are closely related.
Weight loss, through either dieting or delivery, usually improves or even eliminates GERD symptoms. Even modest amounts of weight loss in someone who is obese can lead to an improvement of symptoms right from the beginning, perhaps because the person is eating a lower-fat diet. A natural corollary to the effect of weight loss is the effect of weight gain: it can bring about GERD symptoms or make existing symptoms worse.
While we are on the subject of weight loss, we should note that exercise can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which in turn decrease the effectiveness of the lower esophageal sprincter. position changes during exercise may also precipitate reflux. These changes are reversed as soon as the exercise is finished, fortunately.
Recipe - Grilled Marination Flank Steak
Flank steak, cooked medium rare, is such a treat. This recipe is easy to prepare and satisfying, especially when served with horseradish mashed potatoes. Ans because it is grilled quickly, you are not spending hours fussing over a stove. Since flank steak is not an expensive cut of beef, it's affordable enough to make for a crowd. Though this recipe contains a minimal amount of garlic, you may still wish to cook without it. Soothing gingerroot and cilantro may also offset the effects of garlic.
- 3-4 pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced gingerroot
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- Place uncut flank steak into a large dish or plastic zipper bag to marinate
- Combine remaining ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk well. Pour this mixture over the meat and turn the meat until it is well coated. Marinate meat, turning occasionally 2 hours or up to overnight
- Heal grill to medium-high. Remove the meat from the marinade and grill for 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer for less rare beef.
- Let stand a minute or two before cutting the steak into 1/4-inch slices against the grains
How does one come off of PPI's?
I got an email yesterday, and she needed help on coming off PPI's. Here's her case:
"I feel so bad. I truly feel that PPI's are wrecking my stomach. I started on Prilosec about 5 years ago for acid reflux. A few weeks after taking Prolosec I started getting really bad burning pain in my stomach. I had a GI do a full workup and found nothing. She switched me several times until Prevacid was able to help.
A couple years went by. The heartburn would come and go but I wouldn't notice the stomach burning pain as much. When the heartburn would come back, they would increase my dosage of Prevacid to where I was taking around 40mg twice a day. Then last April it all came back!! Lots of nausea, burning pain, etc. Ive had a big work up again and all they can find is gastritis.
I truly feel that the PPI's are really causing problems!! I have burning throughout the intestinal tract, trouble going to the bathroom (constipation), nausea and the burning pain is unrelentless. Can you suggest a good H2-blocker to switch to? I have tried Zantac and Pepcid and neither seem to help a lot."
Please post any suggestion/advice for her case
"I feel so bad. I truly feel that PPI's are wrecking my stomach. I started on Prilosec about 5 years ago for acid reflux. A few weeks after taking Prolosec I started getting really bad burning pain in my stomach. I had a GI do a full workup and found nothing. She switched me several times until Prevacid was able to help.
A couple years went by. The heartburn would come and go but I wouldn't notice the stomach burning pain as much. When the heartburn would come back, they would increase my dosage of Prevacid to where I was taking around 40mg twice a day. Then last April it all came back!! Lots of nausea, burning pain, etc. Ive had a big work up again and all they can find is gastritis.
I truly feel that the PPI's are really causing problems!! I have burning throughout the intestinal tract, trouble going to the bathroom (constipation), nausea and the burning pain is unrelentless. Can you suggest a good H2-blocker to switch to? I have tried Zantac and Pepcid and neither seem to help a lot."
Please post any suggestion/advice for her case
Hearty Beef Stew
Sometimes you just crave something homespun and comforting. If so, this is the stew for you. Most stews call for large amounts of onions and garlic, we have done away with the onions, and we've reduced the amount of garlic significantly. You may wish to reduce it even more or eliminate it entirely. The same is true of tomato paste, through the amount here is diluted by the large amounts of liquid. Most of the flower of this stew comes from browning the meat first and then added vegetables and broth. If you are in a veggie mood, add peas and parsnips to the mix.
- 1 1/2-2 pounds stew beef, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup flow for dredging
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 8 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cups 1-inch carrot chunks
- 2 cups 1-inch turnip chunks
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 cups 2-inch Idaho or russet potato chunks
- Dredge meat in floor and pat to remove extra flour
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add meat and crook on all sides, until lightly browned
- Add the garlic, tomato paste, thyme, salt, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, and broth to the pot and stir well
- Add the celery, carrots, turnips, bay leaves, and potatoes and stir again. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduces heat to simmer. Cook the stew, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour or until the meat is very tender
Treating Esophagus Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer of the esophagus that develops in someone with GERD or GERD with Barrett's esophagus, if not detected at an early stage, is usually fatal within a couple of years or, sometimes, months. If the cancer is detected early enough, surgery can be performed and may cure the cancer. Cure is possible only through radical surgery and only if the cancer is found not to have spread widely beyond the lower esophagus. Further information on this complicated topic can best be obtained from an experience gastroenterologist or surgeon.
Other treatments for esophagus cancer are palliative treatments, which means that they are designed not to cure the cancer but to solids, or even liquids, when the passageway for nourishment is narrowed because the cancerous tumor is growing inward form the lining of the esophagus or upper stomach. Thus, chemotherapy and radio-therapy are not used to cure esophagus cancer, but they are sometimes of value in reducing the rate of spread and providing palliative treatment.
The most effective palliation is provided by endoscopic techniques that dilate and hold open the area of the esophagus that is becoming closed off by the growth of the tumor. After dilation, wire cages are sometimes placed in the esophagus through the endoscope to preserve the person's ability to swallow liquids and solids for as long as possible. This, too, is a palliative treatment, not a cure, because it does not stop the spread of the cancer, but it does make it easier for the person to swallow and in that way helps to prevent malnutrition.
Of course, esophageal carcinoma is a dreaded complication of GERD. It must be emphasized that it is an uncommon complication, however, and it can be treated if detected early. People with Barrett's esophagus are at particularly high risk and should periodically undergo a screening endoscopy under the direction of a gastroenterologist.
Other treatments for esophagus cancer are palliative treatments, which means that they are designed not to cure the cancer but to solids, or even liquids, when the passageway for nourishment is narrowed because the cancerous tumor is growing inward form the lining of the esophagus or upper stomach. Thus, chemotherapy and radio-therapy are not used to cure esophagus cancer, but they are sometimes of value in reducing the rate of spread and providing palliative treatment.
The most effective palliation is provided by endoscopic techniques that dilate and hold open the area of the esophagus that is becoming closed off by the growth of the tumor. After dilation, wire cages are sometimes placed in the esophagus through the endoscope to preserve the person's ability to swallow liquids and solids for as long as possible. This, too, is a palliative treatment, not a cure, because it does not stop the spread of the cancer, but it does make it easier for the person to swallow and in that way helps to prevent malnutrition.
Of course, esophageal carcinoma is a dreaded complication of GERD. It must be emphasized that it is an uncommon complication, however, and it can be treated if detected early. People with Barrett's esophagus are at particularly high risk and should periodically undergo a screening endoscopy under the direction of a gastroenterologist.
Grilled Chicken Breasts With Orange Honey Sauce
This chicken sounds light and fruity - and it is. The Sauce is almost invisible. It's pale in color, and its subtle flavors are simply delicious. Although the word orange will make people apprehensive, the amount is small and, when cooked, is usually much less of a problem for GERD sufferers. Even without the orange, this chicken is extremely tasty.
Chicken:
Sauce:
Chicken:
- 8 boneless and skinless chicken breast halves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Kosher salt to taste
- Sweet or mild paprika, to taste
- Fresh minced parsley, garnish
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
- 1 cup fat-free chicken broth
- 1/4 cup orange juice or apple cider
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 cups 1/2-inch diced zucchini
- Heat grill to medium high
- Pound the chicken breasts with a meat mallet until about the same thickness throughout
- Brush chicken with vegetable oil and season it with salt and paprika to taste. Set aside
- Make the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat
- Add the garlic, if using, and saute until softened, about 3 minutes
- Stir in honey, peel, broth, juice, tarragon, and cumin. Bring to a boil, reduce heat slightly and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is reduced and thickened to a syrup consistency
- Stir in zucchini and keep warm until ready to serve
- Meanwhile, grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 4 - 5 minutes on each side
- Arrange the breasts on a platter and pour the sauce over. Sprinkle fresh-chopped parsley over and serve
Severe GERD Symptoms
When heartburn is accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms, it may indicate a more severe GERD symptoms or a complication such as a structure or esophageal cancer. They require a visit to your doctor for further evaluation - usually via an endoscopy to see if there's damage to the esophagus.
No one knows why sex brings on severe GERD symptoms like heartburn. One theory is that a hormonal release during orgasm causes a weakening of the LES. Other experts think the problem could be due to abdominal pressure that results from quick movements when you are lying prone. It could be a simple problem of positioning.
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- difficulty swallowing
- food getting stuck in your esophagus that takes a long time to travel downward or must be regurgitated back up
- blood in your stool
- vomiting blood
- unexplained weight loss
No one knows why sex brings on severe GERD symptoms like heartburn. One theory is that a hormonal release during orgasm causes a weakening of the LES. Other experts think the problem could be due to abdominal pressure that results from quick movements when you are lying prone. It could be a simple problem of positioning.
Share with us if you have anything to say about severe GERD symptoms
GERD Diet
The following GERD diet is based on the popular Mediterranean diet, which in turn is based in large part on the benefits of olive oil.
A Modified Mediterranean GERD Diet
Inasmuch as there are more than a dozen Mediterranean nations with varied cultures, traditions, and dietary habits, the Mediterranean diets is not a uniform nutritional model. However the GERD diet of all these countries have some things in common, items that include.
The Greek GERD diet is considered optimal, although other factors besides diet, such as genetics, environmental pollutants, and amounts of sunlight, also differ between the United States and Greece.
The GERD diet consists of:
Whole-grain breads, pastas, and cereals. Whole grains are much more nutritious than their refined counterparts, with more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Good grains include whole wheat, oats, whole grain cornmeal, buckwheat, brown rice, and barley.
Raw or lightly steamed vegetables and sprouts, plus raw fruit. Fruits and vegetables contain not only fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but also generous amounts of phytochemicals, substances that benefit health. Cooking destroys many of these nutrients. Eat the nutrient-rich skins of fruits such as apples and pears, but be sure to wash your produce well in order to avoid pesticide residues and parasitic infections.
Cooked beans, lentils, and peas, and saw, unsalted nuts and seeds. Beans, lentils, and peas are all members of our GERD diet, which is a rich source of protein, potassium, and fiber. One bean, the soybean, is the basis of the traditional Asian foods tofu and miso. and of the fake meats widely available in American supermarket. Nuts and seeds are also rich sources of nutrients - just be aware that they are in high calories.
Fresh meat, fish, and poultry in small amounts to complement the vegetables, grains, and legumes. Meat, a fine source of protein, is not evil. But it does contain high amounts of cholesterol and saturated fat, and modern methods of production use antibiotics in the animals' feed, which poses a threat to human health. Therefore, eat only lean cuts of organically grown meat and poultry. On the other hand, fatty fish, especially cold-water fish, such as salmon, is an excellent source of essential GERD diet (fatty acids).
Share with us if you've got any idea of GERD diet.
A Modified Mediterranean GERD Diet
Inasmuch as there are more than a dozen Mediterranean nations with varied cultures, traditions, and dietary habits, the Mediterranean diets is not a uniform nutritional model. However the GERD diet of all these countries have some things in common, items that include.
- Low amounts of saturated fat
- High amounts of monounsaturated fat, thanks to the extensive of olive oil
- Moderate amounts of animal protein
- High amounts of carbohydrates
- High amount of vegetables and leguminous fiber.
The Greek GERD diet is considered optimal, although other factors besides diet, such as genetics, environmental pollutants, and amounts of sunlight, also differ between the United States and Greece.
The GERD diet consists of:
Whole-grain breads, pastas, and cereals. Whole grains are much more nutritious than their refined counterparts, with more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Good grains include whole wheat, oats, whole grain cornmeal, buckwheat, brown rice, and barley.
Raw or lightly steamed vegetables and sprouts, plus raw fruit. Fruits and vegetables contain not only fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but also generous amounts of phytochemicals, substances that benefit health. Cooking destroys many of these nutrients. Eat the nutrient-rich skins of fruits such as apples and pears, but be sure to wash your produce well in order to avoid pesticide residues and parasitic infections.
Cooked beans, lentils, and peas, and saw, unsalted nuts and seeds. Beans, lentils, and peas are all members of our GERD diet, which is a rich source of protein, potassium, and fiber. One bean, the soybean, is the basis of the traditional Asian foods tofu and miso. and of the fake meats widely available in American supermarket. Nuts and seeds are also rich sources of nutrients - just be aware that they are in high calories.
Fresh meat, fish, and poultry in small amounts to complement the vegetables, grains, and legumes. Meat, a fine source of protein, is not evil. But it does contain high amounts of cholesterol and saturated fat, and modern methods of production use antibiotics in the animals' feed, which poses a threat to human health. Therefore, eat only lean cuts of organically grown meat and poultry. On the other hand, fatty fish, especially cold-water fish, such as salmon, is an excellent source of essential GERD diet (fatty acids).
Share with us if you've got any idea of GERD diet.
GERD Information
GERD Information Overview
GERD is a confusing disease comprised of chronic heartburn/acid reflux, as well as many of the dysmotility symptoms. One survey showed that 75 percent of people suffering from non-ulcer pain ans heartburn have additional symptoms. In this case, reflux is caused when the lower esophageal sprinter (LES) - the muscle connecting the esophagus with the stomach - doesn't close properly after the food passes from the esophagus to the stomach. So acid-laced food comes back up.
In the information from medical community, GERD is referred to as an "iceberg" disease in that there are symptoms at the base common to all people with GERD. As the iceberg narrows into various jagged peaks, symptoms vary. For example, all people will have reflux, but only all people will feel burning or bloating or nausea. On the other hand, some people may experience every imaginable symptoms of GERD and dysmotility. Moreover the severity of the symptoms differs, which can depend on how severe LES dysfunction is, how much fluid is coming up from stomach, and even how effective saliva is at neutralizing the reflux. Most experts today classify GERD as both an acid problem, in that acid is in the wrong part of your G.I. tract, and a motility problem.
Severe GERD can cause inflammation of the esophageal lining, known as esophagitis. This can lead to narrowing of the esophagus. Severe GERD can also cause an ulcer.
For more GERD information, also read Natural Cure For GERD
Natural Cures For Acid Reflux
While over-the-counter and prescription antacids and other medications for treating the symptoms of acid reflux are widely available and can be very effective, the cornerstone of treatment for any disease or disorder is natural cures. Especially as we get older, we tend to need medications to control a variety of problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis; if we can avoid adding acid reflux medications to the mix, that is all to the good. And that's why many patients are looking for natural cures for acid reflux nowadays.
Natural cures for acid reflux such as home remedies can be fun, convenient, low-cost, and effective - or not. The main thing to keep in mind with home remedies is that they should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or persist. In the following, we give you some ideas of natural cures for acid reflux:
Baking soda. This time-proven home remedy has been used over 80 years. When mixed with water, it is very effective in relieving heartburn and neutralizing stomach acid. One-half teaspoon in 4 ounces of water can be taken up to every 2 hours if drinking. The powder should be completely dissolved in water before drinking. Baking soda is fast, safe, inexpensive, and reliable, but it contains sodium and can cause fluid retention in people with poor kidney function or heart failure.
Bread. Many people think that white bread is a good natural cures for acid reflux. The theory is that it soaks up the extra acid and prevents it from causing damage. Although it is an interesting idea, we don't think it works.
Buttermilk or milk. Milk is a popular natural cures for acid reflux among some people in farming communities in the Midwest and New England. The idea is that the milk will coat the stomach and esophagus to protect them from the acid, and that it will also help neutralize the acid. Cool, creamy milk may feel good going down, but its high fat content may lower pressure in the LES and actually make acid reflux worse.
Natural cures for acid reflux such as home remedies can be fun, convenient, low-cost, and effective - or not. The main thing to keep in mind with home remedies is that they should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or persist. In the following, we give you some ideas of natural cures for acid reflux:
Baking soda. This time-proven home remedy has been used over 80 years. When mixed with water, it is very effective in relieving heartburn and neutralizing stomach acid. One-half teaspoon in 4 ounces of water can be taken up to every 2 hours if drinking. The powder should be completely dissolved in water before drinking. Baking soda is fast, safe, inexpensive, and reliable, but it contains sodium and can cause fluid retention in people with poor kidney function or heart failure.
Bread. Many people think that white bread is a good natural cures for acid reflux. The theory is that it soaks up the extra acid and prevents it from causing damage. Although it is an interesting idea, we don't think it works.
Buttermilk or milk. Milk is a popular natural cures for acid reflux among some people in farming communities in the Midwest and New England. The idea is that the milk will coat the stomach and esophagus to protect them from the acid, and that it will also help neutralize the acid. Cool, creamy milk may feel good going down, but its high fat content may lower pressure in the LES and actually make acid reflux worse.
Dysmotility
Dysmotility means "things not moving well." Food travels from the esophagus into the stomach, which slowly releases it into the small intestine. There can be problems on any or all "floors" of this elevator. Things can get stuck between the esophagus and stomach, causing the classic GEFD symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. In this case, the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes when it should be taut, allowing food to come back up. Or, food can get stuck between the stomach and small intestine, which causes symptoms of bloating, fullness, and so on. People with dysmotility will find that most diagnostic test will come back normal; the diagnostic tests available for G.I. disorders are generally for the purpose of ruling out an ulcer, tumor, or inflammation.
Dysmotility, with all its varying symptoms, is typically a chronic condition. Symptoms keep coming back, and by the time dysmotility is finally diagnosed, most people have had these symptoms for a long time. The only way you can stop symptoms from recurring is by changing your lifestyle habits or taking a motility drug as a maintenance therapy. The classic case of dysmotility goes something like this: You may notice that you suffer from chronic gas, bloating, and feeling full despite your efforts to control the symptoms. You may also have a lot of stress combined with poor eating habits. Your doctor prescribed an H2 receptor antagonist, but it didn't help. You were then sent for tests, which always come back normal. You were also counseled about changing your diet and lifestyle to avoid symptoms, but you are not very good at making dietary changes. Your sypmptoms persist, and you are miserable. Several months later, another doctor, perhaps a G.I. specialist, diagnoses a motility disorder, prescribes a specific motility drug or prokinetic agent, and your symptoms begin to disappear.
source:50 ways to relieve heartburn, reflux, and ulcers by M.Sara Rosenthal
Dysmotility, with all its varying symptoms, is typically a chronic condition. Symptoms keep coming back, and by the time dysmotility is finally diagnosed, most people have had these symptoms for a long time. The only way you can stop symptoms from recurring is by changing your lifestyle habits or taking a motility drug as a maintenance therapy. The classic case of dysmotility goes something like this: You may notice that you suffer from chronic gas, bloating, and feeling full despite your efforts to control the symptoms. You may also have a lot of stress combined with poor eating habits. Your doctor prescribed an H2 receptor antagonist, but it didn't help. You were then sent for tests, which always come back normal. You were also counseled about changing your diet and lifestyle to avoid symptoms, but you are not very good at making dietary changes. Your sypmptoms persist, and you are miserable. Several months later, another doctor, perhaps a G.I. specialist, diagnoses a motility disorder, prescribes a specific motility drug or prokinetic agent, and your symptoms begin to disappear.
source:50 ways to relieve heartburn, reflux, and ulcers by M.Sara Rosenthal
Proton-Pump Inhibitors
For some people, H2 - blockers, even at high dose, are inadequate to control acid reflux symptoms. In particular, if an upper endoscopy is performed and shows that the person has esophagitis, then the most powerful anti-acid medications, the proton-pump inhibitors, are usually prescribed. The proton-pump inhibitors have been shown to provide better acid suppression, and better and faster-onset symptom control, in severe, H2 - blocker-resistant case of acid reflux. In addition, they are more effective and faster a healing acid reflux related esophagitis than H2 - blockers. Proton-pump inhibitors are only available with a prescription.
The five FDA-approved proton-pump inhibitors and their standard doses are:
Side effect on proton-pump inhibitors
The proton-pump inhibitors are generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort, but none of these individual symptoms occurs in more than 3 percent of people taking proton-pump inhibitors daily.
The five FDA-approved proton-pump inhibitors and their standard doses are:
- lansoprazole (Prevacid), 30 mg once a day
- omeprazole (Prilosec), 20 mg once a day
- pantoprazole (Protonix), 40 mg once a day
- rabeprazole (Aciphex), 20 mg once a day
- esomeprazole (Nexium), 40 mg once a day
Side effect on proton-pump inhibitors
The proton-pump inhibitors are generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort, but none of these individual symptoms occurs in more than 3 percent of people taking proton-pump inhibitors daily.
H2 - Blockers
The class of drugs known as H2 - blockers includes a variety of these "interchangeable" drugs, several of which are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. For people with acid reflux symptoms that are frequent or severe, or that do not respond to OTC medications, one of the prescription H2 - blockers is usually prescribed for an initial period of four to eight weeks.
The four H2 - blockers approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and their standard does are:
If you are taking an H2 - blockers for acid reflux and your symptoms are relieved, the next decision is whether to continue the treatment or to stop. Since it is best not to take medications unless they are needed, after the initial four to eight weeks of treatment the health care provider will generally recommend stopping the medications. Since many people have only intermittent symptoms of acid reflux and may never have a problem again, it is very reasonable to try a period off medications.
The four H2 - blockers approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and their standard does are:
- cimetidine (Tagamet), 400 mg twice a day
- famotidine (Pepcid), 20mg twice a day
- nizatidine (Axid), 150 mg twice a day
- ranitidine (Zantac), 150 mg twice a day
If you are taking an H2 - blockers for acid reflux and your symptoms are relieved, the next decision is whether to continue the treatment or to stop. Since it is best not to take medications unless they are needed, after the initial four to eight weeks of treatment the health care provider will generally recommend stopping the medications. Since many people have only intermittent symptoms of acid reflux and may never have a problem again, it is very reasonable to try a period off medications.
Over-the-Counter Medicines For Acid Reflux
Most people who have acid reflux do not suffer symptoms every day, and their episodes of reflux are brief, lasting only a few minutes or a few hours. Also, many people can predict when they will have symptoms of acid reflux. Based on their previous experience, they know what factors precipitate acid reflux symptoms for them. Fortunately, most episodes of acid reflux that are brought on by overeating, eating the wrong foods, or lying down too soon after a meal can be brought under control with over-the-counter medications, even if such episodes cannot be avoided altogether by the lifestyle changes.
It is important to note that many of the over-the-counter medicines described here contain sodium, a component of salt. If you are on a salt-restricted diet, you will need to read labels carefully to make sure you do not ingest too much sodium.
Common acid reflux medications available without a prescription:
Antacids are useful in treating acid reflux because they are weak bases and therefore convert the caustic and potentially dangerous hydrochloric acid found in stomach acid into neutral water and a salt. Antacids also decrease the potential caustic effect of pepsin, another chemical found in gastric secretions.
It is important to note that many of the over-the-counter medicines described here contain sodium, a component of salt. If you are on a salt-restricted diet, you will need to read labels carefully to make sure you do not ingest too much sodium.
Common acid reflux medications available without a prescription:
- Zantac 75 (ranitdine)
- Tums
- Pepcid AC
- Di-Gel
- Rolaids
- Amphojel tablets
- Gelusil
- Maalox
- Riopan
- Nephrox
- Gaviscon
Antacids are useful in treating acid reflux because they are weak bases and therefore convert the caustic and potentially dangerous hydrochloric acid found in stomach acid into neutral water and a salt. Antacids also decrease the potential caustic effect of pepsin, another chemical found in gastric secretions.
Natural Stomach Soothers
Even if you try to be careful about what you eat, the temptation of modern life do not always encourage a healthy diet: fast food at an airport, chips and dip at a party, cake at a wedding, too much food at any time. When you do overindulge, there are gentle, natural remedies for burning in esophagus, calming your stomach and your heartburn:
Hard-to-digest sugars are responsible for the flatulence and bloating that can occur after you eat legumes and other gas-producing vegetables. In this case, try Beano, an over-the-counter digestive aid that breaks down the offending sugars, and thus reduces gas production. If you make beans a regular part of your diet, your system will eventually adjust to them and produce less gas.
Source: Heartburn and what to do about it by Dr.James F.balch and Dr. Morton Walker
- Papaya contains enzymes that helps speed digestion, and also provides vitamins C and E. The tablets are easy to use.
- Anise seeds can be chewed to relieve indigestion. They are also effective against respiratory infections.
- Ginger is a powerful stomach soother that reduces spasms and cramps - just don't take too much, or it can cause even more stomach distress. If the fresh root is not available, make a tea of the dried powder. Some people use candied ginger to prevent seasickness.
- Fennel relieves abdominal pain and dispels gas, and is especially good for relieving an acid stomach. It also promotes liver, spleen, and kidney function.
- Peppermint, a popular flavoring agent, can ease distress in all parts of the gastrointestinal tract. It also stimulates the appetite.
- Aleo vera soothes the stomach and provides a gentle laxative effect. When used extremely, it is an excellent burn and wound healer.
- Catnip aids digestion. Despite its stimulating effect on cats, this herb tends to relieve stress and promote sleep in humans.
- Fenugreek lubricates the intestines and acts as a laxative. It also contain vitamins A, B, D.
- Charcoal tablets, available in health food stores, can absorb gas and toxins from the intestines. They can also absorb medications and nutrients, so take them separately, and do not use them for long period of time.
Hard-to-digest sugars are responsible for the flatulence and bloating that can occur after you eat legumes and other gas-producing vegetables. In this case, try Beano, an over-the-counter digestive aid that breaks down the offending sugars, and thus reduces gas production. If you make beans a regular part of your diet, your system will eventually adjust to them and produce less gas.
Source: Heartburn and what to do about it by Dr.James F.balch and Dr. Morton Walker
Regurgitation - Another GERD Symptom
Other than heartburn, another common symptom of GERD is acid regurgitation, which is the sensation that occurs when acid travels all the way up from the stomach, past both the lower and upper esophageal sphincters, into the mouth. Many people have experienced the sour taste in the mouth caused by regurgitation. In an effort to clear the acid that is refluxing, many people swallow repeatedly; but this results in air being swallowed along with saliva. This swallowing of air can produce gaseous distention of the stomach and the GERD symptom of excessive belching. Repeated belching brings up even more acid, in a vicious cycle of acid reflux, air swallowing, and belching.
When acid is refluxed into the esophagus, the salivary glands may produce large volumes of alkaline, foamy or frothy secretions in an attempt to neutralize the stomach acid. Because of he amount of saliva involved and the suddenness with which it appears in the mouth, this phenomenon, called water brash, can be starting. The saliva in water brash may taste slightly salty.
While heartburn, regurgitation, and water brash are considered the classic symptoms of GERD, a less common but also typical symptom of GERD involves swallowing difficulties. Some people feel as if they are having trouble swallowing at all, and some people feel pain when they swallow.
When acid is refluxed into the esophagus, the salivary glands may produce large volumes of alkaline, foamy or frothy secretions in an attempt to neutralize the stomach acid. Because of he amount of saliva involved and the suddenness with which it appears in the mouth, this phenomenon, called water brash, can be starting. The saliva in water brash may taste slightly salty.
While heartburn, regurgitation, and water brash are considered the classic symptoms of GERD, a less common but also typical symptom of GERD involves swallowing difficulties. Some people feel as if they are having trouble swallowing at all, and some people feel pain when they swallow.
Heartburn Relief In Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be a wonderful time in a woman’s life, filled with expectation and promise as the body blooms before one’s very eyes. Expectant mothers are often pictured with a hand on the enlarged tummy, a head full of glossy hair, and bright, sparkling eyes. But the reality often can be much, much different. Hope and joy aside, pregnancy can be downright hellish, filled with bad hair days and swollen limbs. And that doesn’t even begin to touch the increased risk and intensity of reflux that commonly joins a resurgence of acne and the appearance of stretch made as the overlooked realities of this otherwise blessed time.
Studies regarding the incidence rates during pregnancy find varying rates, ranging from one-quarter of all pregnant women having daily symptoms from the gas go to 72 percent experiencing some level of heartburn severity in the third trimester. What some of the findings seem to have in common is that there is an increase in the number of women who have daily heartburn the further into gestation the pregnancy progresses.
No one is exactly sure why this phenomenon occurs but there are plenty of theories, all of which are plausible. For one, the shifting levels of hormones during pregnancy, particularly progesterone and estrogen, can cause changes in the way the GI tract operates. As an example, progesterone in higher levels in the pregnant body causes the GI tract to relax, not a good thing for the LES. Also, progesterone, paired with the constipating effect of the iron-rich prenatal vitamins prescribed during pregnancy, can lead to decreased bowel motility and an increase in time that food takes to leave the stomach, known factors for a rip-roaring case of acid reflux.
Another possible reason for the increase in heartburn among pregnant women can be found in the logistics of carrying a growing fetus inside the body. As the fetus develops from a tiny, nearly weightless speck to that of a multi-pound, full-sized being, the body must adjust to accommodate sharing the living space, so to speak. In many ways, it is like moving a second person into a one-person studio apartment. Just as you would have to move some furniture around to adjust to the extra resident, the female body has to slightly displace some organs in the normal anatomy to accommodate the fetus. As the fetus grows, it presses the intestines upward, placing greater pressure on the stomach. That force alone can cause the LES to open and stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus. Aside from the constant pressure of the growing fetus, additional, transient jabs can occur when the fetus licks or moves up sharply.
Food Diet For Hiatal Hernia
Here are some food diet for hiatal hernia:
For more food diet for hiatal hernia, check out our free recipes
- Avoid acidic foods (citrus/tomato products)
- Avoid fatty foods/greasy foods
- Avoid chocolate and licorice
- Avoid peppermint and spearmint
- Avoid caffeine (coffee, cola, tea)
- Smaller, more frequent meals
- Light evening meal
- Minimum of three to four hours between the end of the evening meal and bedtime
- No snacks after dinner
- Avoid Alcohol
- No smoking
For more food diet for hiatal hernia, check out our free recipes
Refluxamine Review
It started one night when I sat down to watch a movie with my girlfriend. We had just returned from a wonderful dinner at a local Mexican restaurant right around the corner. I had the chicken enchiladas and my girl friend had the shrimp fajitas. We were maybe five minutes into the movie when BAM! it hit me. Heart burn, the very thing that I didn't want at that moment.
I only wanted to spend time with the one I love and watch a movie that I had been looking forward to for weeks. OK, I said, no big deal. I took that chance when I indulged in those delectable chicken enchiladas. Oh, and I would probably do it again.Anyway, I grabbed some common over the counter antacids, chewed a couple down, and sat back down to lose myself in my movie. Ten minutes, twenty minutes later, geez! more burning, more discomfort. I wished I could do something about it. But instead I just accepted it and tried to ignore it, as unsuccessful as that was.
Well, to jump ahead a bit, the next day I decided to do some research on other treatments for heart burn and acid reflux. I always try to stay as healthy as possible, ok chicken enchiladas might not be the best decision, but not the worst either. At the very least I want to make sure that the supplements or "medications" I put in my body are of the best quality and not something that are going to do more harm than good. So I decided to look for some more natural treatments to help me for the unfortunate but inevitable next time that I experienced acid reflux, heart burn, indigestion, or any of these types of symptoms. After a little looking I came across a product called Refluxamine. It sounded GREAT and seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. It was 100% natural, approved by doctors to be safe, and was even something that had been used by ancient civilizations. Being convinced enough and intrigued at the same time I took the chance and ordered it.
Let me say at this point that that was a wonderful decision. It was promptly delivered to my door shortly after the order was placed. Being the thrill seeker that I am (just kidding) I decided to put Refluxamine to the test and treated myself and my beautiful girl friend to a full Italian dinner, that's right - lasagna, spaghetti, bread, wine, desert, even salad. I was stuffed to say the least (but it was all for research purposes of course). Sure enough, a little while later I felt a little burning, something creeping up my throat, an all to familiar feeling. So I walked into my kitchen and took some Refluxamine. I was a little excited as well as a bit skeptical, which is usual for me when I try new supplements that claim wonderful things.
Low and behold, in a very short amount of time, THE HEART BURN WAS GONE!!!. Amazing! No more burning, no more discomfort, I felt great!!! Almost good enough to eat some more lasaga. I was so excited that Refluxamine actually worked. I had tried quite a few different things over time trying to treat my acid reflux. Until now none of the REALLY worked. I mean this was a break through for me. Not only did it treat my immediate symptoms of heart burn, but it actually helped to treat my condition over time. It helped to cure my apparently sensitive body so that I got fewer and fewer incidents of heart burn the more I took it.
I used Refluxamine for months after that first use and I really must say that IT WORKS!!! Compared to other options Refluxamine is a clear choice. It's natural, safe, non-addictive, has been used for thousands of years, actually treats the condition rather than just the immediate symtom, and most importantly IT WORKS!!! If you're experiencing pain from heart burn, indigestion, or anything else related to acid reflux I really must say that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE PRODUCT REFLUXAMINE.
Oven-Fried Chicken
The next best thing to fried chicken, enjoy crispy chicken without all the ingredients that can cause acid reflux.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup flour
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Vegetable spray
PREPARATION:
- Wash and dry chicken.
- Place the chicken in a gallon-size storage bag, pour in milk, seal the bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Add vegetable oil to bottom of a 9x9 baking dish, spreading it until entire bottom has been coated.
- Place the flour, pepper and salt in another gallon-size storage bag, seal, and shake until all ingredients are blended.
- Remove chicken from first storage bag, drain, then place it one piece at a time into the bag filled with the seasoned flour.
- Shake to coat the chicken well.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Coat the top of the chicken pieces with a generous coat of vegetable spray.
- Bake in center of oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked throughout on the inside.
Oven Steak Fries
Fried foods, such as French Fries, can trigger heartburn. Try this alternative to French Fries that are still golden brown and crispy.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 pounds Idaho or russet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch by 5-inch sticks
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Nonstick cooking spray
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Spray a baking or cookie sheet with the nonstick cooking spray.
- Place potatoes in a large bowl.
- Add oil, parsley flakes, oregano and paprika, and toss potatoes until thoroughly coated.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking / cookie sheet.
- Bake for 30-40, turning the potatoes over once approximately halfway through baking time, until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Serve hot. Serves 8
No Tomato Sauce Lasagna
Love lasagna but tomato-based products trigger your heartburn? Now you can enjoy your old favorite with this no tomato sauce lasagna recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
- 12 ounces very lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 12 ounces wide lasagna noodles
- 2 cups low-fat alfredo sauce
- 1 1/2 cups grated skim mozzarella cheese
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Cook noodles in a large pot of boiling water until just tender. Drain Well.
- While noodles are cooking, brown the ground beef in a nonstick frying pan coated with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, add browned beef and broth.oss together.
- Spread 1 cup of the alfredo sauce on the bottom of 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Add 3 strips of lasagna noodles.
- Spread half the beef mixture on top.
- Lay 3 strips of lasagna noodles.
- Spread the remaining beef mixture on top.
- Add 3 strips of lasagna noodles.
- Spread the very top with remaining white sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes.
Low-Fat Alfredo Sauce
Traditional alfredo sauce is high-fat, and a potential heartburn trigger. This version is low-fat and easier on the digestive system.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/4 cup light cream cheese
- 1/4 cup low-fat milk
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly grated pepper to taste (optional)
PREPARATION:
- Combine cream cheese, 1/4 cup milk, and flour in a small mixing bowl. Beat until well blended. Slowly pour in remaining 1 cup milk and beat until smooth.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in large, nonstick sauce pan over medium heat.
- Add the milk mixture and continue to heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened (about 4 minutes).
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, adding salt and pepper to taste if desired.
This recipe makes 2 cups of sauce.
Serving suggestion: Serve 1/3 cup of sauce over 1 cup of fettuccine noodles.
Grilled Marinated Flank Steak
This recipe is easy to prepare, and because it's grilled, you won't have to worry about triggering the heartburn that frying can.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3-4 pounds of flank steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
PREPARATION:
- Place flank steak into a large dish.
- Combine olive oil, soy sauce and brown sugar in a medium bowl and blend well.
- Pour mixture over the steak, turning the meat until it is well coated.
- Cover dish with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Turn meat occasionally during this time.
- Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for approximately 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Grill longer for more well-done steak.
Chicken Pot Pie
Enjoy a homemade, heartburn-free, version of an old favorite.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
- 1 cup frozen carrots, thawed and drained
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) cream-style corn
- 3/4 cup milk, divided into 1/4 cup and 1/2 cup portions
- 1 cup biscuit mix
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
- Cut chicken breasts into 1" cubes and season with salt
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
- Add chicken and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until browned
- Place chicken into a 3-quart baking dish, and add carrots, peas, corn and 1/4 cup milk
- Cover and bake for 25 minutes
- In a mixing bowl combine the biscuit mix and 1/2 cup milk.
- Stir until a soft dough forms
- Remove baking dish from oven and uncover
- Spoon dough onto chicken and vegetables with a tablespoon
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown
Serves 4
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
A great feel-good food, homemade chicken noodle soup is great anytime. An added plus is a recipe that's easy on the digestive system.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 quarts water
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 4 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (3 oz) uncooked, large egg noodles
- 2 cups diced, cooked chicken breasts
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
PREPARATION:
- Add olive oil to a large pot
- Add celery and saute over a medium-high heat
- Add water, carrots, bouillon cubes, thyme, and salt
- Bring to a boil
- Add egg noodles
- Cook 8 minutes or until noodles are tender
- Add diced chicken and peas
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes
Serves 4
Serving size: Approximately 2 1/4 cups
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe uses a minimal amount of vegetable oil, so you won't have to worry about heartburn that's triggered by regular frying. The recipe is also adaptable, allowing you to add more vegetables, or substitute those listed here for a few of your own favorites.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1 cup carrots, diagonally sliced thin
- 2 cups peas
- 2 cups small broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, cooked without salt or fat
PREPARATION:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine constarch, brown sugar, soy sauce, and water. Set aside.
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick vegetable spray and then add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- When skillet is hot, add chicken strips, and stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes, or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove chicken strips from skillet and set aside.
- Add remaining 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil, carrots, peas, and broccoli florets to skillet.
- Stir-fry vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, and cover, cooking vegetables until they are tender.
- Add chicken strips back to the skillet.
- Add soy sauce and water mixture to skillet.
- Stir constantly until sauce thickens and heated through.
- Serve over hot cooked rice.
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
An old favorite dish with chicken instead of beef. Try this hearty heartburn friendly dish.
INGREDIENTS:
- Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided into 1/2 tablespoon servings
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinned chicken breasts
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup low-fat sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz linguine noodles, cooked without salt or fat
PREPARATION:
- Cut chicken breasts into 1/2" strips
- Spray a large skillet with the nonstick cooking spray, then add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Heat oil until hot over a medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breast strips and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes, or until it is no longer pink
- Remove chicken and set aside
- Adding the remaining 1/2 vegetable oil and mushrooms to the same skillet.
- Saute mushrooms for 3-4 minutes.
- Add low-fat sour cream and salt to the skillet.
- Stir and heat thoroughly.
- Add chicken to the mushroom mixture
- Serve over linguine noodles
Serves 4
Buttermilk Oven-Fried Chicken
This recipe will give you much of the taste of fried chicken without all the ingredients that can cause acid reflux.
INGREDIENTS:
- 6 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
PREPARATION:
- Place chicken in a large bowl and add milk.
- Cover bowl with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large zipper-style plastic bag, mix together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
- Place one milk-coated piece of chicken breast into the flour mixture, and shake well to coat chicken.
- Place the coated chicken into the prepared baking dish.
- Repeat steps 5 and 6 with the remaining chicken breasts.
- Drizzle half of the melted butter over the chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken 10 minutes, turn pieces over, and drizzle the rest of the melted butter over the chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken an additional 10 minutes or until cooked thoroughly.
Broiled Lamb Chops with Mushrooms
Lamb Chops are a great meal, and you can enjoy this recipe that will be easy on your digestive system.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms
- 4-4 oz lamb chops, each 1" thick with visible fat trimmed
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain brown rice, cooked without salt or fat
PREPARATION:
- In a mixing bowl combine the vegetable oil, salt, and ginger.
- Spray a broiling rack with cooking spray, place rack in a pan, and place lamb chops on the rack
- Brush the top side of the lamb chops with the oil mixture.
- Broil for 5 minutes.
- Turn lamb chops and place mushrooms around the chops.
- Brush lamb chops with the remaining oil mixture.
- Broil for 5 more minutes.
- Serve immediately with cooked rice.
Serves 4
Berry Cobbler
Enjoy this heartburn-free berry cobbler.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1-teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups of raspberries (blackberries, cranberries or blueberries can be substituted)
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Blend together flour, sugar, baking, powder and salt in a large bowl.
- Stir in butter, milk, vanilla and egg.
- Stir until mixture is smooth.
- Fold in berries.
- Pour into prepared pan, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until top is firm.
Beef Strips and Pasta
This recipe is simple and, more importantly, heartburn-friendly.
INGREDIENTS:
- Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
- 1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, cut across the grain in 1/8" strips
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccini pasta, cooked without salt or fat
PREPARATION:
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick vegetable spray and then add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil, heating over a medium heat.
- When oil is hot, add beef strips and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until beef is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
- Add mushrooms to skillet and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add basil, oregano, and salt.
- dd beef strips back to the skillet.
- Cover and shimmer for a few minutes, until heated through.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir to mix well.
- Serve beef mixture over hot fettuccini pasta.
Beef Loaf
If traditional meat loaf gives you heartburn, try this moderated beef loaf recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1-1/2 pounds very lean ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1-1/2 cups bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Combine ground beef and unbeaten eggs, bread crumbs, chopped parsley, pepper and salt. Thoroughly blend the mixture.
- Place mixture in a bread pan.
- Place in and bake for about two hours, basting every quarter of an hour with hot stock.
- Cut into thin slices.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe uses a minimal amount of vegetable oil, so you won't have to worry about heartburn that's triggered by regular frying. The recipe is also adaptable, allowing you to add more vegetables, or substitute those listed here for a few of your own favorites.
INGREDIENTS:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 lb boneless, beef sirloin steak, cut across grain into 1/8" strips
- 1/2 cup diagonally sliced celery
- 1 cup diagonally sliced carrots
- 3 cups small broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, cooked according to directions
PREPARATION:
- In a mixing bowl combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick vegetable spray and then add 2 teaspoons vegetable oil, heating over a medium heat.
- When skillet is hot, add the beef strips, and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the beef is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove beef strips from skillet and set aside.
- Add celery, carrots, and broccoli florets to skillet and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add approximately 1 tablespoon of water, cover skillet, and cook vegetables until they are tender.
- Add soy sauce and water mixture to skillet
- Stir constantly until sauce thickens.
- Add beef strips back to the skillet.
- Simmer until heated through.
- Serve over rice.
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Enjoy a hearty dish that has been tweaked to become heartburn-friendly.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 pound boneless beef sirloin steak
- 1 cup low-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 3 teaspoons instant beef bouillon granules
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided into 1/2 tablespoon portions
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1/3 cup water
- 8 oz fettuccini noodles, cooked without salt or fat
PREPARATION:
- Cut the steak in half lengthwise and then into 1/4 inch wide strips. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl add the sour cream, flour, bouillon granules and thyme. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.
- Spray nonstick cooking spray onto a large skillet.
- Over medium heat, add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- Add mushrooms and saute for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove mushrooms from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat slightly and add 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil and heat until hot.
- Add beef strips and cook 2-4 minutes, or until done.
- Remove beef from skillet.
- Add water to skillet and bring to a boil.
- Add sour cream mixture, mushrooms, and beef to skillet.
- Cook beef mixture, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Serve over hot fettuccini noodles.
Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Enjoy dessert on your heartburn-free diet with this recipe for banana cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.
The first part of the ingredients is for the cupcakes (cc) and the second part of the ingredients is for the frosting (fr).
INGREDIENTS:
- (cc) 1 cup flour
- (cc) 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- (cc) 1/4 teaspoon salt
- (cc) 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- (cc) 3/4 granulated sugar
- (cc) 1/4 cup butter
- (cc) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- (cc) 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
- (cc) 4 large egg whites
- (cc) 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
- --------------------
- (fr) 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- (fr) 8 ounces fat-free cream cheese, softened
- (fr) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well blended. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter.
- Add vanilla and the mashed bananas to the creamed sugar and butter and beat well.
- Next, add egg whites to the mixture and beat thoroughly.
- Stir in half the flour mixutre and the sour cream.
- Add the remaining flour mixture, and stir until it's just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the greased 12 muffin cups.
- Bake for 25-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 15 minutes before removing the cupcakes from the pan, and cool cupcakes completely before frosting them.
- To make the frosting, beat all the frosting ingredients together in a medium bowl until creamy.
- Spread the frosting thinly over the cupcakes using a knife or spatula.
Banana Bread
An old favorite, banana bread, can still be enjoyed by heartburn sufferers by using this recipes.
Makes 1 loaf; 14 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 slightly beaten egg whites
- 1 cup mashed banana
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
- Nonstick cooking spray
PREPARATION:
- Blend together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium mixing bowl.
- Blend together beaten egg whites, banana, sugar, and oile in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in flour mixture into the banana mixture, blending only until flour mixture is moistened.
- Spray an 8x4x2-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spread batter in prepared pan.
- Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool bread in the pan for approximately 10 minutes, then remove bread from pan and cool it thoroughly on a wire rack.
Baked Chicken and Rice
A creamy mushroom sauce cloaks tender baked chicken breasts in this easily prepared entree.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 2-10.75 ounce cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 2-4.5 ounce cans sliced mushrooms
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
- In a mixing bowl mix together mushroom soup with milk and stir until well blended
- Take 1 cup of soup and milk mixture and set aside
- Using the remainder of the soup mixture, add rice and mushrooms
- Pour rice and soup mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish
- Place chicken breasts on top of mixture
- Pour the set aside soup mixture over the chicken
- Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes
Apple Pancakes
Do you like pancakes for breakfast? Try this heartburn-free version of apple pancakes.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1-1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup finely diced apples
- Cinnamon
- Milk
PREPARATION:
- Cream the margarine and sugar.
- Beat eggs then add to margarine and sugar mixture.
- Sift flour with the baking powder and cinnamon, then add to margarine and sugar mixture.
- Add finely chopped apples.
- Blend well.
- Add milk until you have a medium-consistency batter.
- Cook on a griddle.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
If you love coffee cake, but hate the heartburn it may cause, this recipe will be easy on your digestive system.
The first part of the ingredients is for the filling and the topping (F&T) and the second part of the ingredients is for the cake (cake).
INGREDIENTS:
- (F&T) 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- (F&T) 5 tablespoons sugar
- (F&T) 6 cups chopped apples
- --------------------
- (cake) 2 cups sugar
- (cake) 1 cup applesauce
- (cake) 4 teaspoons vanilla
- (cake) Pinch of salt
- (cake) 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- (cake) 3 cups all-purpose flour
- (cake) 1 tablespoon baking powder
- (cake) 1 teaspoon nutmeg
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
For Filling and Topping:
- Combine cinnamon and sugar in a medium bowl. Set aside 1 tablespoon of this mixture.
- With the remainder of the mixture, added apples and toss until apples are coated.Set aside.
For the Cake:
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, applesauce, vanilla, salt, and eggs.
- Combine flour, baking powder, and nutmeg and fold into sugar mixture.
- Spoon about one third of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Cover with half of apple mixture, then spoon in remaining batter
- Place apple slices the top.
- Sprinkle top lightly with the set aside cinnamon and sugar.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done.
- Loosen sides with a butter knife, then invert cake onto a plate for serving.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
f you love coffee cake, but hate the heartburn it may cause, this recipe will be easy on your digestive system.
The first part of the ingredients is for the filling and the topping (F&T) and the second part of the ingredients is for the cake (cake).
INGREDIENTS:
- (F&T) 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- (F&T) 5 tablespoons sugar
- (F&T) 6 cups chopped apples
- --------------------
- (cake) 2 cups sugar
- (cake) 1 cup applesauce
- (cake) 4 teaspoons vanilla
- (cake) Pinch of salt
- (cake) 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- (cake) 3 cups all-purpose flour
- (cake) 1 tablespoon baking powder
- (cake) 1 teaspoon nutmeg
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
For Filling and Topping:
- Combine cinnamon and sugar in a medium bowl. Set aside 1 tablespoon of this mixture.
- With the remainder of the mixture, added apples and toss until apples are coated.Set aside.
For the Cake:
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, applesauce, vanilla, salt, and eggs.
- Combine flour, baking powder, and nutmeg and fold into sugar mixture.
- Spoon about one third of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Cover with half of apple mixture, then spoon in remaining batter
- Place apple slices the top.
- Sprinkle top lightly with the set aside cinnamon and sugar.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done.
- Loosen sides with a butter knife, then invert cake onto a plate for serving.
f you love coffee cake, but hate the heartburn it may cause, this recipe will be easy on your digestive system.
The first part of the ingredients is for the filling and the topping (F&T) and the second part of the ingredients is for the cake (cake).
INGREDIENTS:
- (F&T) 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- (F&T) 5 tablespoons sugar
- (F&T) 6 cups chopped apples
- --------------------
- (cake) 2 cups sugar
- (cake) 1 cup applesauce
- (cake) 4 teaspoons vanilla
- (cake) Pinch of salt
- (cake) 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- (cake) 3 cups all-purpose flour
- (cake) 1 tablespoon baking powder
- (cake) 1 teaspoon nutmeg
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
For Filling and Topping:
- Combine cinnamon and sugar in a medium bowl. Set aside 1 tablespoon of this mixture.
- With the remainder of the mixture, added apples and toss until apples are coated.Set aside.
For the Cake:
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, applesauce, vanilla, salt, and eggs.
- Combine flour, baking powder, and nutmeg and fold into sugar mixture.
- Spoon about one third of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Cover with half of apple mixture, then spoon in remaining batter
- Place apple slices the top.
- Sprinkle top lightly with the set aside cinnamon and sugar.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done.
- Loosen sides with a butter knife, then invert cake onto a plate for serving.
Angel Food Cake
Enjoy dessert on your heartburn-free diet with this recipe for angel food cake
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup superfine sugar, divided into 3/4 cup and 1/4 cup portions
- 1 cup sifted cake flour
- 12 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
PREPARATION:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- In a medium bowl whisk together ¾ cup sugar and the flour. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the egg whites until they are thick and foamy.
- Add cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla.
- Set electric mixer to high speed, and beat until soft peaks form.
- Sprinkle the remaining sugar gradually over the top of the batter while continuing to beat. Continue to beat until stiff and glossy. Do not overbeat.
- Gently and quickly fold the flour mixture into the egg white mixture, using a rubber spatula or slotted spoon.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan with removable sides.
- With a knife to cut through the batter to eliminate any air pockets.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a tester inserted the center comes out clean.
- Invert the cake over a funnel, or narrow bottle to cool.
- Run a long, thin knife around the side of the cake to release the sides of the pan.
Acid Reflux Diet Recipes
Angel Food Cake
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Apple Pancakes
Baked Chicken and Rice
Banana Bread
Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Beef Loaf
Beef Strips and Pasta
Berry Cobbler
Broiled Lamb Chops with Mushrooms
Buttermilk Oven-Fried Chicken
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Chicken Pot Pie
Grilled Marinated Flank Steak
Low-Fat Alfredo Sauce
No Tomato Sauce Lasagna
Oven Steak Fries
Oven-Fried Chicken
Pasta and Ham
Pork Chops with Applesauce
Pork Chops with Oregano
Potato Salad
Sesame Chicken Kabobs
Sour Cream Pound Cake
Stuffed Apple Dumplings
Swedish Meatballs
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Turkey Cutlets with Mushrooms
Vegetable Beef Stew
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Apple Pancakes
Baked Chicken and Rice
Banana Bread
Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Beef Loaf
Beef Strips and Pasta
Berry Cobbler
Broiled Lamb Chops with Mushrooms
Buttermilk Oven-Fried Chicken
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Chicken Pot Pie
Grilled Marinated Flank Steak
Low-Fat Alfredo Sauce
No Tomato Sauce Lasagna
Oven Steak Fries
Oven-Fried Chicken
Pasta and Ham
Pork Chops with Applesauce
Pork Chops with Oregano
Potato Salad
Sesame Chicken Kabobs
Sour Cream Pound Cake
Stuffed Apple Dumplings
Swedish Meatballs
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Turkey Cutlets with Mushrooms
Vegetable Beef Stew
Treating Acid Reflux With Apple Cider Vinegar
The Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for many generations now among households. Unknown to many, apple cider vinegar or ACV does great things like treating ailments. But doctors have yet to see for themselves the healing magic this household substance is capable of.
ACV is believed to aid with acne problems, weight loss, cholesterol, constipation, heartburn and of course, acid reflux. It works wonders on one's overall health condition and helps in fighting off diseases like osteoporosis, memory problems, aging and cancer.
If an apple cider vinegar is really great, then why do doctors do not speak much about it? Simple because, medical professionals are trained to cure and treat with medicines, not the natural remedies. One common health problem that people are facing is the acid reflux. You may find the leading pharmaceutical companies are widely offering and advertising their plethora of medicines to treat the said ailment. But before considering the medical approach, why not try first the natural way? For that acid reflux or any stomach dilemmas, treat yourself to an apple cider vinegar.
Scientifically explained, the stomach needs an appropriate level of acidity to digest foods properly. When digestive problems occur, it is not because of a high acid content in the stomach, but the opposite instead. Most medications for digestive problems are usually antacids that are known to neutralize the stomach's acid level. This however, may ease the symptoms but does not necessarily address the real cause, therefore, not treating the problem.
An apple cider vinegar mimics the acidity of your stomach, thus, help in the food digestion process. This manner treats any burning sensations. Additionally, digestive enzymes may also be taken into consideration for these also aid in food digestions.
If you have any heartburn, or acid reflux, or nausea, take one tablespoon of an apple cider vinegar before taking a meal. You may be surprised to notice your symptoms to be gone after a minimum of three days. If this really works well for you, you may want to continue taking the apple cider vinegar even until nine months, after which, problems may disappear.
But beware of using just any apple cider vinegar. Make sure you have the organic ACV. These organic ACV's have enzymes eccentrically named as "mother". The "mother" holds the healing characteristics. The "mother" appears to be stringy globs hovering within the bottle. For a more effective approach, shake the vinegar before taking a tablespoon of it so the "mother" will be dispersed all throughout.
You may not get to like the taste of it right away, but eventually, you will get the hang of it. Or you may consider making a tea out of the ACV by adding hot water. For some, they mixed it with an organic honey. You may try this also for it said to aggrandize its healing potentials. Taking an apple cider vinegar before a meal is appropriate. But this does not put any limit to its usage. You can take an ACV each time you feel some stomach upsets. You will soon find out its immediate curative effects. Some people attested to its healing abilities, even with one who has some colds or flu.
Apple cider vinegar does not only alleviates stomach upsets or acid reflux, but it is an effective weight loss agent too.
Baking Soda For Heartburn
Baking soda for heartburn symptoms is an effective home remedy which has helped out many a sufferer yet, it's such a common ingredient in the home that it's probably overlooked as a serious relief option for the uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn.
I remember baking soda being one of the products I would see first sitting on the shelf of my mom's pantry when I raided it as a kid but it's not until later in life when heartburn is a factor that I have really paid any attention to it.
Baking Soda Facts
Baking soda has a variety of uses. It is highly recommended as a boost for your regular washing detergent. Not only that, it has excellent deodorizing powers and is said to bring up a clothes wash smelling fresh and clean. Baking soda has an ability to neutralize odors.
Using Baking Soda For Heartburn Sensibly
One thing to remember with heartburn is if it's at a chronic level in your life and you haven't seen a doctor then what are you waiting for. Baking soda for heartburn is only a temporary relief option and should be treated as such. Abusing it in large amounts will get you into a lot of bother.
Basically, baking soda acts as an antacid, neutralizing stomach acids that digest food. When producing too much, the feeling of discomfort associated with heartburn and related symptoms becomes a factor. If too much acid is neutralized the body can overreact and you'll find yourself with even more acid, and in even more pain.
The Benefits Of Baking Soda For Heartburn
It's an amazing home product. Baking soda is used in so many applications such as absorbing unwanted odors in the fridge, the kitchen sink and floor coverings. You're probably thinking..."Are you kidding? And you want me to take the stuff to relieve heartburn?" Sure, but there are obvious restrictions.
Baking soda is very high in sodium content and can be dangerous if used for the wrong reasons or in high amounts. For example, excess use can lead to complications especially for people with conditions such as high blood pressure. Needless to say, if you have just heard about the baking soda for heartburn treatment and are getting visions of curing your problem don't get too carried away until you run it by your doctor.
How To Use Baking Soda For Heartburn
Check with your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid taking baking soda if you are on prescription drugs or have high blood pressure. Recommended doasage is about a half teaspoon of baking soda in about a half a glass of water. Make sure the product is completely dissolved in the water or you could be asking for trouble.
Use baking soda for heartburn only in moderation and if you need to exceed more than a couple of doses in a 24 hour period then don't, pick up the phone and visit your friendly neighborhood doctor. There may be something more sinister at play.
The Effects Of Heartburn
If you are a heartburn sufferer then you don't need me to tell you why it's occurring in your life. Everything from food to drink to body posture could bring on an episode of heartburn but it's not something you need to put up with everyday. There are ways which can lead you to enjoy a heartburn free life and your doctor is best placed to guide you through the process of identifying what causes it and establishing a plan of action to avoid it. Baking soda for heartburn should only be used as a temporary relief method.