Settling the stomach

HEARTBURN occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach rise into the oesophagus, causing pain in the chest area. It is caused by the weakening of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) – the muscles that form a gateway between the oesophagus and stomach.

This allows acid to escape the stomach. Stomach acid is almost as corrosive as battery acid and can cause moderate to severe pain known as heartburn, when it comes in contact with the oesophageal lining.

Chronic heartburn can lead to a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which happens when there is continuous, long-term damage to the oesophageal lining by stomach acid.

The prevalence of GERD in Malaysia has doubled in the last 10 years, likely due to the rise in smoking and obesity.

With Malaysia being the fattest nation in South-East Asia, it is no wonder that GERD affects so many of us.

Smoking aggravates GERD as the nicotine in cigarettes causes the LOS to relax, allowing more stomach acid to escape into the oesophagus.

Scientists have found that people are more sensitive to stomach acid when they are stressed. Besides that, increased belly weight can worsen GERD because the extra weight creates pressure on the LOS and causes more acid to leak from the stomach.

GERD is not only a burden on quality of life, it is also a risk factor for developing oesophageal cancer.

Treatment options

Heartburn and GERD are usually treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). As powerful, fast-acting stomach acid suppressants, PPIs are a popular treatment option. However, the suppression of acid production in the stomach severely compromises digestion and the body’s natural defence mechanisms – leading to myriad side effects such as kidney damage, pneumonia and osteoporosis. Current guidelines recommend that PPIs be used for only four to six weeks, after which patients are advised to seek milder therapy. However, since symptoms tend to recur, patients continue using PPIs indefinitely.

With the advance of research into natural therapies for gastrointestinal disorders, patients with heartburn or GERD can now consider an alternative way of managing their condition.

Alternative therapy

The conifer green needle complex known as Bioeffective

A is the result of an extensive botanical research programme spanning over 80 years.

Bioeffective A helps strengthen damaged or weakened oesophageal valves, which are a key defect in GERD patients.

Clinical studies found that patients treated with Bioeffective A experienced a 92% improvement in dyspeptic symptoms caused by GERD, including gastritis, gas and bowel disorders.

Patients also experienced a return of normal stomach functionality and reduction in precancerous lesions.

This article is brought to you by the Nuvaceuticals Division of Nuvanta Sdn Bhd.

nFor further information, call 03-5636 3758/1300 881 712 or e-mail pharmacist@nuvanta.com