|  | Conditions Treatments | Digestive Health

Enzyme Therapy for Reflux

Enzyme deficiency can lead to a variety of problems in individuals. Enzymes catalyze the chemical reactions that happen in the body. The digestive systems of humans are dependent upon enzyme reactions to break down large molecules so that they can be more easily converted into helpful smaller molecules that the body can absorb. A deficiency of enzymes in many areas of the body results in illness.

  1. What is Acid Reflux

    • Digestive enzymes, which help the body break down foods and liquids, must be working in large quantities in healthy individuals; however, a deficiency in such enzymes can cause acid reflux. Enzyme therapy for acid reflux is one solution to this issue.

      Acid reflux is simply the damage caused by an abnormal reentry of acid into the esophageal region. More often than not, antacids are purchased over the counter to deal with the heartburn, vomiting and nausea associated with acid reflux. These neutralize stomach acidity and ease the condition. Some antacids, however, are not strong enough to deal with chronic acid reflux. Prilosec and other medicines may be prescribed by doctors to help fend off the disease by preventing enzymes from transporting stomach acid to the stomach lining or up the esophagus. The problem with these medicines tends to be the long-term side-effects that can occur as a result of overuse.

    Why Enzyme Therapy

    • Digestive enzyme therapy does not carry with it the side-effects of other types of medication. Calcium pumps (such as Prilosec) and H2 blockers can cause serious issues such as hip fractures and excess bacteria in the stomach. Recent studies have demonstrated that stomach cancer may be linked to overuse of such medications due to the rampant growth of such bacteria. Acid-resistant enzymes appear to decrease the stomach's distension, working in the stomach itself to prevent acid reflux from occurring. Mixing enzymes with a calcium supplement is a very effective therapy for acid reflux issues.

    How Does It Work?

    • The unhealthy secretion of acid and digestive enzymes (usually stimulated by fatty, greasy meals) is thought to be the cause of acid reflux. Healthy digestive cultures counteract the reflux of acid into the esophagus. Digestive enzymes are reintroduced into the stomach when using enzyme therapy to combat acid reflux. Doing so prevents the cells of other parts of the body (particularly the esophagus) from contacting stomach acid. Because exposure of these sensitive cells to stomach acid causes pain and, over time, may lead to cancer, enzyme therapy is often the best choice for individuals who wish to avoid the side-effects of some common prescription medications.

Digestive Health - Related Articles