Antacids Short-Term Relief = Long-Term Damage
Stomach acid is required for healthy digestion and to effectively absorb vitamins and minerals, so the long term use of acid blockers, which work by reducing acid production in the stomach, can severely decrease nutrient absorption, leading to nutrient deficiencies. PPI users have significantly lower levels of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and magnesium. One study found that 75 percent of long-term PPIs users were deficient in vitamin B12, compared to only 11 percent of non-users. And in 2011, the FDA issued a warning that long-term use of acid-blocking medications can result in low magnesium levels. Likely related to the decrease in absorption of the important bone nutrients calcium and magnesium, long-term users of acid blockers also have a significantly higher risk of bone fractures, especially those of the hip and spine. Acid blockers can also lead to dangerous bacterial overgrowth in the gut, which can increase susceptibility to foodborne illnesses and infection. Finally, evidence has emerged showing that these drugs can also increase cardiovascular risk, in part by decreasing the body’s natural production of nitric oxide, which is crucial for cardiovascular health. Healthy Alternatives Heartburn hurts. When you’re suffering, you only want relief. The good news is that there are plenty of (effective!) alternatives to acid blockers—that don’t come with harmful side effects, even with long-term use. Herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow root, aloe vera, and deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach caused by acid reflux by coating and protecting these sensitive tissues. These herbs soothe and encourage healing without reducing stomach acid production. While melatonin is most known for its role in supporting a normal circadian rhythm, research is finding that it also does an excellent job at relieving symptoms of acid reflux; not surprising, considering there is up to 400 times more melatonin in the gut than in the brain!