For people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach acid flows backwards into the esophagus (the tube connecting the throat and the stomach). GERD causes irritation of the esophagus and the gut, and leads to discomfort and other negative effects on a person’s life. Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation (when food comes back up), burning sensation in the chest, difficulty swallowing, and more.
At Vaidya Healthcare, we utilize an all-encompassing holistic approach based on Ayurvedic principles to treat GERD by improving the digestive health of the individual, reducing acid production, and restoring the balance of one’s system through dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as through the utilisation of herbal products.
Factors That May Contribute to the Development of GERD
The following factors may contribute to the development of GERD.
- Low esophageal sphincter (LES) strength allows for the flow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
- Eating excessive quantities of spicy, fatty, or processed foods.
- Stress as a result of living an unhealthy lifestyle.
- Being out of shape, overweight, or fatigued.
- Taking medications that slow down the digestive process.
Common Signs and Symptoms Associated with GERD
- Chronic heartburn and burning sensation in the chest.
- Regurgitating food from the mouth.
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- bloating, nausea, & indigestion
- difficulty swallowing
- chronic sore throat & cough
The Ayurvedic View of GERD
In Ayurveda, GERD Occurs Because of an Imbalance in Pitta Dosha. This imbalance creates an excess of heat present in the stomach, an increase in the amount of acid stored in your digestive system, as well as the amount of irritation within your digestive tract.
Ayurvedic Goals of Treating GERD
The Ayurvedic Goals of Treating GERD Are:
- Reduce the amount of excess acid created by the body and, hence, calm the Pitta Dosha.
- Cool down the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
- Increase and/or Maintain the Agni (Digestive Fire) so that digests easily.
Ayurvedic Treatments for GERD
Vaidya Health Care Creates Individualized Treatment Plans for GERD which May Include the Following:
- Herbal Preparations That Calm the Digestive Tract, Reduce Acidity, Support Digestion.
- Dietary Practices, Lifestyle, and Stress Management Techniques In Order to Maintain a Balanced Dosha.
- Support for Metabolism and Prevention-of Recurrence-of-GERD.
- Ongoing Care and Follow-Up for Long-Term Health of Your Digestive System.
Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations
The best way to obtain optimal results from GERD therapies is to follow a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Eat smaller, more frequent, warmer, and more easily digestible meals (cold food). Avoid eating too much fatty, spicy, or processed foods.
Meal Timing: The optimal timing for your meat is as close as possible to a meal that contains 3–4 small meals within a 24-hour time frame.
Exercise Level: Light exercise (walking, yoga) can help your body digest food better and create a healthy digestive system.
Stress Relief: Relaxation using yoga, meditation, or breathing techniques can help you deal with stress and support a healthy digestive system.
Consult Vaidya Healthcare
If you have GERD or are experiencing GERD symptoms, we recommend contacting an Ayurvedic health provider through Vaidya Healthcare and learning more about how we provide a holistic, safe, and individualized approach using Ayurveda. Our goal is to support excellent digestion, reduce reflux, and improve all aspects of health and wellness.
