Acid Reflux: Major Mis-Diagnosis
Those suffering with stomach and intestinal problems are led to believe that heartburn, indigestion, gas, and reflux are caused by overproduction of stomach acid. This is a common misconception and strongly supported by conventional medicine whose practitioners routinely prescribe stomach acid blocking medications at the slightest sign of stomach dysfunction without properly diagnosing the digestive problem by first monitoring the stomach's acid producing function, using scientific methods and neglecting to provide patients with common sense dietary recommendations.
The pharmaceutical firms with their considerable influence on the medical profession have, through advertising, incentives to doctors and various other forms of indoctrination, made it an almost reflex reaction on the part of most physicians, even many Gastroenterologists, to jump to the conclusion that a majority of gastric problems can be easily treated by the use of acid blocking medications. Because the American public over-consumes unhealthy food at an alarming rate, the routine use of acid blockers is highly profitable for pharmaceutical firms, provides instant relief for many sufferers, but can bring about long-term health problems for many misdiagnosed users.
Too Much Or Too Little Stomach Acid - Same Symptoms
Strangely enough, the symptoms of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid, HCL) over-production and under production are virtually identical. It is therefore unwise to jump to conclusions regarding what's occurring in the stomach without actual testing. Since stomach acid decreases with age, it is illogical to think GERD symptoms are caused by acid overproduction. And since stomach acid plays such a critical role in overall health, lowering already low stomach acids with acid blockers has serious consequences. Based upon the testing of sample groups, it has been theorized that well over half of the U.S. population beyond the age of fifty years is under-producing hydrochloric acid on a constant basis, leading to a host of digestive and immune disturbances. Although the condition is not uncommon in younger persons as well. Today's demineralized, devitalized diet that so many are consuming greatly contributes to this problem.
Stomach acid or gastric acid, is comprised of three main components (pepsin, hydrochloric acid and mucous) and is a crucial step in the digestive process. Responsible for breaking down proteins, producing bile, stimulating the pancreas to produce digestive enzyme, and killing harmful bacteria, stomach acid is crucial for healthy digestion and assimilation of food. The acidic environment created by the gastric acid can help the small intestines absorb iron, calcium and other minerals and vitamins. Without optimal stomach acid, we are vulnerable to poor digestion and all of its manifestations, gas, bloating, eczema, allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, vitamin deficiencies and many chronic degenerative diseases.
For most people that suffer from GERD symptoms, the true underlying cause is actually LOW stomach acid production. When food enters a stomach without enough acid, it is unable to properly move through the digestive tract. Food that sits in the stomach can push its way back up through the Lower Esophageal Sphincter and cause heartburn and the feeling of fullness. Food is also unable to move efficiently down the GI tract, the pancreas does not produce the necessary digestive enzymes and food will start to ferment. The fermentation process causes gas, bloating, constipation, and over prolonged amounts of time, can lead to food allergies, IBS, diverticulitis, and other chronic diseases.
Testing For Optimal Stomach Acid
A test, the "Heidelberg Capsule Test" is available (unfortunately few physicians have the equipment in their offices to provide it) that is capable of scientifically determining the stomach's ability to produce adequate concentrations of acid (HCL). There is a simple and practical way to test whether or not one needs stomach acid supplementation (betaine HCl with pepsin) and even estimate how much one needs. As reported in the Townsend Letter, the Examiner of Alternative Medicine (4/06) An Easy Way to Evaluate Digestion by Judy Kitchen :
Place your hand just underneath your sternum (in the center of-your chest) in-between your ribs. Move your finger an inch down (to the center of your diaphragm) and about one inch to the left, next to the left edge of the rib cage. Press in deeply, and if you feel pain or tenderness, you need more stomach acid (or betaine HCl with pepsin). The more tender it feels, the greater the problem. Return to the point one inch below your sternum, and then again move your finger about an inch, this time to the right. Press in firmly. If the spot is tender, you need to take pancreatic or combined enzymes about a half-hour before, or at least two hours after, meals.
If the central point (one inch below your sternum) or pancreatic point are sensitive, but the HCl or stomach point is not, you probably should not be taking betaine HCl. You need to stop taking it and see if either of those points continue to be tender. Make sure that your diet is high in organic sodium and potassium, as in fresh vegetable juices (organically grown, if possible). If any of the reflex points are unmistakably tender, it would be wise to make an appointment with a physician who is skilled in natural medicine to have the tests and the guidance you need, For example, you may need to be tested for specific nutrient deficiencies, heavy metals, celiac disease, or infections such as H. Pylon. (Simply by taking a gram of mastic gum daily for two weeks, 99% of H. Pylon can been eliminated.) With positive changes, such as the avoidance of allergenic food, your tissue levels of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids can be restored. Enzyme systems, cells, tissues, and organs can then repair themselves, and you will in all likelihood no longer need betaine HCl. When none of the reflex points are even faintly tender, your digestion has been fully restored.
Do not rely on this test if you are not really sure that you are able to find or feel these reflex points. Some people have lost the ability to feel them. If you suspect that you have a digestive problem, without delay ask a nutritionally knowledgeable doctor to give you the Heidelberg capsule test (which shows the stomach's exact pH) or the Comprehensive Digestive and Stool Analysis (which shows how well food is being digested). Digestion is of foremost importance. No other therapy works when long-term low stomach acid has not been corrected. Remember not to take anti-inflammatory medicine when you take betaine HO. Cortieosteroids, aspirin, or non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin or Advil) irritate, and can even further damage, the gastrointestinal tract.
A new method of testing that is both non-invasive and inexpensive is now available at Essentials Of Life at Tan Plus.
The Bio-Electric Magnetic Analyzer has produced accurate results in determining stomach acid levels and more.
The pharmaceutical firms with their considerable influence on the medical profession have, through advertising, incentives to doctors and various other forms of indoctrination, made it an almost reflex reaction on the part of most physicians, even many Gastroenterologists, to jump to the conclusion that a majority of gastric problems can be easily treated by the use of acid blocking medications. Because the American public over-consumes unhealthy food at an alarming rate, the routine use of acid blockers is highly profitable for pharmaceutical firms, provides instant relief for many sufferers, but can bring about long-term health problems for many misdiagnosed users.
Too Much Or Too Little Stomach Acid - Same Symptoms
Strangely enough, the symptoms of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid, HCL) over-production and under production are virtually identical. It is therefore unwise to jump to conclusions regarding what's occurring in the stomach without actual testing. Since stomach acid decreases with age, it is illogical to think GERD symptoms are caused by acid overproduction. And since stomach acid plays such a critical role in overall health, lowering already low stomach acids with acid blockers has serious consequences. Based upon the testing of sample groups, it has been theorized that well over half of the U.S. population beyond the age of fifty years is under-producing hydrochloric acid on a constant basis, leading to a host of digestive and immune disturbances. Although the condition is not uncommon in younger persons as well. Today's demineralized, devitalized diet that so many are consuming greatly contributes to this problem.
Stomach acid or gastric acid, is comprised of three main components (pepsin, hydrochloric acid and mucous) and is a crucial step in the digestive process. Responsible for breaking down proteins, producing bile, stimulating the pancreas to produce digestive enzyme, and killing harmful bacteria, stomach acid is crucial for healthy digestion and assimilation of food. The acidic environment created by the gastric acid can help the small intestines absorb iron, calcium and other minerals and vitamins. Without optimal stomach acid, we are vulnerable to poor digestion and all of its manifestations, gas, bloating, eczema, allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, vitamin deficiencies and many chronic degenerative diseases.
For most people that suffer from GERD symptoms, the true underlying cause is actually LOW stomach acid production. When food enters a stomach without enough acid, it is unable to properly move through the digestive tract. Food that sits in the stomach can push its way back up through the Lower Esophageal Sphincter and cause heartburn and the feeling of fullness. Food is also unable to move efficiently down the GI tract, the pancreas does not produce the necessary digestive enzymes and food will start to ferment. The fermentation process causes gas, bloating, constipation, and over prolonged amounts of time, can lead to food allergies, IBS, diverticulitis, and other chronic diseases.
Testing For Optimal Stomach Acid
A test, the "Heidelberg Capsule Test" is available (unfortunately few physicians have the equipment in their offices to provide it) that is capable of scientifically determining the stomach's ability to produce adequate concentrations of acid (HCL). There is a simple and practical way to test whether or not one needs stomach acid supplementation (betaine HCl with pepsin) and even estimate how much one needs. As reported in the Townsend Letter, the Examiner of Alternative Medicine (4/06) An Easy Way to Evaluate Digestion by Judy Kitchen :
Place your hand just underneath your sternum (in the center of-your chest) in-between your ribs. Move your finger an inch down (to the center of your diaphragm) and about one inch to the left, next to the left edge of the rib cage. Press in deeply, and if you feel pain or tenderness, you need more stomach acid (or betaine HCl with pepsin). The more tender it feels, the greater the problem. Return to the point one inch below your sternum, and then again move your finger about an inch, this time to the right. Press in firmly. If the spot is tender, you need to take pancreatic or combined enzymes about a half-hour before, or at least two hours after, meals.
If the central point (one inch below your sternum) or pancreatic point are sensitive, but the HCl or stomach point is not, you probably should not be taking betaine HCl. You need to stop taking it and see if either of those points continue to be tender. Make sure that your diet is high in organic sodium and potassium, as in fresh vegetable juices (organically grown, if possible). If any of the reflex points are unmistakably tender, it would be wise to make an appointment with a physician who is skilled in natural medicine to have the tests and the guidance you need, For example, you may need to be tested for specific nutrient deficiencies, heavy metals, celiac disease, or infections such as H. Pylon. (Simply by taking a gram of mastic gum daily for two weeks, 99% of H. Pylon can been eliminated.) With positive changes, such as the avoidance of allergenic food, your tissue levels of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids can be restored. Enzyme systems, cells, tissues, and organs can then repair themselves, and you will in all likelihood no longer need betaine HCl. When none of the reflex points are even faintly tender, your digestion has been fully restored.
Do not rely on this test if you are not really sure that you are able to find or feel these reflex points. Some people have lost the ability to feel them. If you suspect that you have a digestive problem, without delay ask a nutritionally knowledgeable doctor to give you the Heidelberg capsule test (which shows the stomach's exact pH) or the Comprehensive Digestive and Stool Analysis (which shows how well food is being digested). Digestion is of foremost importance. No other therapy works when long-term low stomach acid has not been corrected. Remember not to take anti-inflammatory medicine when you take betaine HO. Cortieosteroids, aspirin, or non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin or Advil) irritate, and can even further damage, the gastrointestinal tract.
A new method of testing that is both non-invasive and inexpensive is now available at Essentials Of Life at Tan Plus.
The Bio-Electric Magnetic Analyzer has produced accurate results in determining stomach acid levels and more.
Digestin Digestive Enzymes from Progressive Laboratories
$30.00
Enzymes are complex protein molecules that are manufactured by all plant and animal cells. Enzymes are very important because they break up large food molecules into smaller units that are absorbed into the cells. They help the body digest food and assimilate nutrients from proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and plant fibers. In addition, enzymes assist in all chemical reactions taking place in our body; including the regeneration of cells/tissues and the elimination of waste products/toxins as well as supporting our immune system.
Digestin... Digestive Aid For Protein, Fat And Starch
Digestin™ is a two-phase digestive enzyme capsule that works in both the upper and lower digestive tract. Its exclusive enteric matrix formulation allows part of its enzymes to be released in the gastric phase and part in the enteric phase of digestion.
Contains Bile Powder - Supports fat digestion in the small intestine. Useful for people who have had their gall bladder removed. Supports the pancreas, gall bladder and liver in producing bile salts and helps digest fats.
Digestin... Digestive Aid For Protein, Fat And Starch
Digestin™ is a two-phase digestive enzyme capsule that works in both the upper and lower digestive tract. Its exclusive enteric matrix formulation allows part of its enzymes to be released in the gastric phase and part in the enteric phase of digestion.
Contains Bile Powder - Supports fat digestion in the small intestine. Useful for people who have had their gall bladder removed. Supports the pancreas, gall bladder and liver in producing bile salts and helps digest fats.
Acida-Zyme HCI w/Pepsin from Progressive Laboratories
$41.00
Sold out
Stomach acid is a crucial step in the digestive process. Responsible for breaking down proteins, producing bile, stimulating the pancreas to produce digestive enzyme, and killing harmful bacteria, stomach acid is crucial for healthy digestion and assimilation of food. Without optimal stomach acid, we are vulnerable to poor digestion and all of its manifestations, gas, bloating, eczema, allergies, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, vitamin deficiencies and many chronic degenerative diseases.
Acida-Zyme Betaine HCI ... Digestive Aid With Pepsin
Acida-Zyme is a digestive aid containing betaine HCl for patients with insufficient stomach acid.
Taken with meals, Acida-Zyme particularly supports digestion of protein and fats.
Acida-Zyme Betaine HCI ... Digestive Aid With Pepsin
Acida-Zyme is a digestive aid containing betaine HCl for patients with insufficient stomach acid.
Taken with meals, Acida-Zyme particularly supports digestion of protein and fats.
Super Papaya Enzyme Plus
$14.00
Sold out
Chewable Super Papaya Enzyme Plus...The After Meal Supplement
An advanced, more powerful digestive aid, this 100% natural "after meal" supplement may be especially helpful when looking for a higher level of support. Each serving contains 15mg of delicious papaya fruit fortified with well-known enzymes, including papain, protease, amylase, and bromelain, which may help improve the absorption of food and protein digestion. Peppermint and chlorophyll have been added to refresh taste and sweeten breath.
Free Of: yeast, wheat, milk or milk derivatives, lactose, sugar, preservatives, soy, artificail color, artificial flavor.
contains sodium (less than 5mg per serving).
Directions: Adults, chew 3 tablets following meals, or dissolve 1 or 2 tablets in mouth when needed. Warning: If you are pregnant, nursing or taking medications, consult with your doctor before use.
An advanced, more powerful digestive aid, this 100% natural "after meal" supplement may be especially helpful when looking for a higher level of support. Each serving contains 15mg of delicious papaya fruit fortified with well-known enzymes, including papain, protease, amylase, and bromelain, which may help improve the absorption of food and protein digestion. Peppermint and chlorophyll have been added to refresh taste and sweeten breath.
Free Of: yeast, wheat, milk or milk derivatives, lactose, sugar, preservatives, soy, artificail color, artificial flavor.
contains sodium (less than 5mg per serving).
Directions: Adults, chew 3 tablets following meals, or dissolve 1 or 2 tablets in mouth when needed. Warning: If you are pregnant, nursing or taking medications, consult with your doctor before use.
Probiotic Broad Spectrum From Progressive Laboratories
$31.00
Only a few left!
A specially developed probiotic formula featuring 10 high quality probiotic species, for a total of about 10 Billion CFU (colony forming units) per caplet. This product also features the patented BIO-tract® delivery system that protects the live organisms from gastric acid to ensure their delivery into the intestines. This formula also contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) which are added to provide food for bacterial proliferation. The best part is ... No Refrigeration is Required!! Simply keep this product in a cool, dry place for best storage.
Bio-tract®'s exclusive gel matrix technology allows for a gel protective layer to continuously form and erode around the tablet; releasing probiotic organisms as it travels through the digestive tract providing controlled delivery and ensuring the organisms remain active at consistent levels throughout the day. You can count on Probiotic Broad Spectrum to deliver the highest level of all day digestive, intestinal and immune support essential for healthy digestion, natural regularity, intestinal function and immune health.
DGL Complex From Progressive Laboratories
$25.00
Only a few left!
Throughout history, people have used licorice root to reduce inflammation, soothe digestive problems and treat upper respiratory issues. There are more than 300 different compounds in licorice, some of which have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.
DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice root, heals stomach ulcers, promotes healthy digestion, and alleviates GERD, which is so prevalent in today’s society. And it does all this without interfering with cortisol levels. DGL is powerful because it doesn’t just relieve symptoms, it heals the digestive tract.
The natural ingredients in DGL Complex from Progressive Laboratories supports the ability of the gastric lining to protect and repair itself without upsetting the acidic environment of the stomach.
Take one capsule three times daily, or more, as directed by a health care professional.
DGL, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice root, heals stomach ulcers, promotes healthy digestion, and alleviates GERD, which is so prevalent in today’s society. And it does all this without interfering with cortisol levels. DGL is powerful because it doesn’t just relieve symptoms, it heals the digestive tract.
The natural ingredients in DGL Complex from Progressive Laboratories supports the ability of the gastric lining to protect and repair itself without upsetting the acidic environment of the stomach.
Take one capsule three times daily, or more, as directed by a health care professional.
