Non Drug Treatment of Heartburn and Acid Reflux

1 in 6 Canadians have GERD, a disease that is characterized by heartburn and acid regurgitation. 

GERD is a common experience for many Canadians and contributes to poor sleep, decreased quality of life, and an increased risk for esophageal cancer. 

Medications like proton pump inhibitors can reduce stomach acid secretions and improve symptoms. Because of this ability they are one of the most prescribed medications in Canada. 

But long term use of proton pump inhibitors may be associated with potential risks, such as micronutrient deficiencies, and infection. These potential risks, and others,  become more important when proton pump inhibitors are prescribed inappropriately, as there is no likely benefit from the medication.. 

To ensure that proton pump inhibitors are used safely, Alberta Health Services provides clear guidelines for their use management of GERD.  

Step five recommends that primary care providers talk to patients about non-drug options to treat or improve heartburn before prescribing a proton pump inhibitor. Did your doctor talk to you about the role lifestyle or diet can play in the treatment of GERD?

Diet and lifestyle recommendations are often tossed out casually, with greater emphasis given to the use of medications. But behaviour change can have a dramatic impact, decreasing the risk of GERD symptoms and may prevent nearly 40% of GERD symptoms that occur at least weekly. So let’s talk about drug free options to improve your symptoms of GERD.

If you have questions about how functional medicine can help reduce your symptoms of heartburn, schedule a free 15 minute consultation. I will talk to you about how we can use functional medicine to improve your digestive health. 

For those taking a long term proton pump inhibitor, talk to your prescribing doctor and pharmacist about this recommendation from Choosing Wisely Canada about long term use of  proton pump inhibitors