Calcium and prickly pear aid heartburnA combination of carbonates and Opuntia ficus-indica extract protects esophageal cells against simulated acidic and non-acidic reflux in vitro.
Mixed treatment limits calcium assessment
We explored the combined effects of calcium from carbonate antacids and extract from the prickly pear plant, Opuntia ficus-indica, on heartburn symptoms. This was investigated through tests designed to mimic conditions in the esophagus during acid reflux. Our main goal was to understand if these ingredients could effectively help in neutralizing stomach acid and safeguarding esophageal cells from damage caused by both acidic and non-acidic reflux.
In our experiments, we found that the carbonate antacids worked to neutralize the acidity, which in turn helped to protect esophageal cells from harm due to low pH levels. Additionally, the prickly pear extract showed promise in reducing irritation from bile acids, as it decreased inflammation markers typically associated with reflux. This dual action of both components suggests that combining them could be an effective way to manage heartburn.
Overall, this study indicates that while calcium plays a role through antacid effects, the inclusion of prickly pear extract enhances the overall protective benefits against heartburn, making it a potentially valuable treatment option for those experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Calcium aids heartburn reliefEvidence-based treatment recommendations for gastroesophageal reflux disease during pregnancy: A review.
Supports calcium antacids use.
We explored how calcium-containing antacids can help relieve heartburn, especially for pregnant women dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This common issue affects many expectant mothers, causing discomfort and aggravation throughout their pregnancy.
The recommendation suggests starting with lifestyle changes to manage symptoms. But when heartburn is severe, introducing calcium-based antacids shows significant promise in reducing those pesky acid reflux issues. This approach prioritizes the health and safety of both mother and baby while aiming for effective relief from symptoms.
If symptoms persist, other treatments like Sucralfate or histamine-2 receptor antagonists can be considered. However, adding calcium-based antacids early on is a preferred first step for many women. Overall, we can see a clear benefit in using calcium for heartburn management during pregnancy, providing a healthy option for easing discomfort.
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This study aimed to assess how effectively GutsyGum™, a chewing gum containing calcium carbonate along with licorice extract, papain, and apple cider vinegar, alleviates heartburn after consuming a refluxogenic meal. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial with 24 participants who had a history of gastro-esophageal reflux (GER). They were asked to chew either GutsyGum™ or a placebo after the meal, and their GER symptoms were measured using visual analogue scales over a four-hour period.
The results revealed that GutsyGum™ significantly reduced heartburn and acid reflux symptoms compared to the placebo. Specifically, the adjusted heartburn score was lower in those chewing GutsyGum™. However, when it came to other symptoms like nausea and belching, we didn't find significant differences. Although there was a trend indicating less pain with GutsyGum™, it didn't reach statistical significance.
Importantly, while calcium carbonate is a component of GutsyGum™, the effectiveness we noted comes from the combination of ingredients, making it challenging to pinpoint calcium's isolated role in reducing heartburn.
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We explored the impact of a new treatment, Marial®, on patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In a large survey involving 56 gastroenterological offices across Italy, patients were treated with either proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a combination of PPIs and an additional remedy, or the Marial® formulation containing magnesium alginate. The results showed that both Marial® and the combination therapy significantly reduced heartburn symptoms, with Marial® proving to be more effective than the combination. Overall, patients reported a marked improvement in their GERD-related symptoms.
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We investigated how zinc affects heartburn through the case of a 76-year-old Japanese man who experienced significant discomfort after undergoing a total gastrectomy. For two weeks, he suffered from a sore throat, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. Endoscopy revealed deep, craterlike ulcers in his esophagus, but tests for viral infections were negative.
After initial treatment, his symptoms returned, prompting further investigation. Eventually, we found that his serum zinc level was low at 38 µg/dL, which led to a diagnosis of zinc deficiency. Following oral zinc supplementation, the patient reported relief from his symptoms and a noticeable improvement in the esophageal ulcers observed during a follow-up endoscopy.
Over the five years since his treatment, the patient has continued to take zinc supplements and has not faced similar issues again. This case suggests that zinc can play a crucial role in treating heartburn issues related to ulcers, especially in those with a deficiency.
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