Acid blockers have become a common daily medication for many people. Still, their usage can lead to significant issues, especially for individuals with thyroid problems.
Considering their prevalence, it’s essential to understand their potential impact on thyroid health. For instance, Levothyroxine, a thyroid medication, is one of the most prescribed drugs in the United States, while Omeprazole, Zantac or famotidine, typical acid blockers, is also quite popular.
Millions of people might be simultaneously using both medications, with the added concern that some of acid blockers are available over the counter without a prescription.
In this article, we will explore the negative effects of acid blockers on thyroid health and the challenges they pose for those with  thyroid problems. Acid blockers can disrupt thyroid function and interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication and contribute to nutrient deficiencies, among other issues.
Before I learnt I had hypothyroidism, I relied on acid blockers like Tums and Zantac to alleviate heartburn and indigestion. However, with the knowledge I have now, I can connect the dots and realize that my prolonged use of antacids might have played a role in the development of my thyroid problems.
Over time, my thyroid function began to decline, leading to reduced hormone production and a cascade of symptoms, including weight gain, low energy, memory and concentration issues, hair loss, and even the loss of the outer part of my eyebrows, among other signs of hypothyroidism.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential link between acid blockers and thyroid health, and to consider alternative approaches for managing acid reflux and GERD to support overall well-being.
Understanding Acid Blockers
An acid blocker is a medicine that lessens the amount of acid in your stomach. It is typical to prescribe it to treat acid reflux but doctors might also prescribe it for other conditions like stomach ulcers or bleeding in the gastrointestinal system. The reason for reducing stomach acid is that it can harm tissues outside the stomach.
With acid reflux, stomach acid can flow into the esophagus and cause damage over time. To manage this problem, doctors suggest reducing stomach acid so it won’t cause issues if it goes up into the esophagus.
Acid reflux is a concern because it can lead to more severe problems, like esophageal cancer, if left untreated. Patients with acid reflux often experience chest pain and discomfort.
Using acid blockers can be compared to a game of whack-a-mole. They might help with the damage in your esophagus, but they don’t stop the reflux from happening. However, they can lead to other problems later on.typical
Importance of Stomach Acid
You see, your body needs the stomach acid that these blockers stop. Stomach acid helps digest food, break down nutrients, and absorb them.
It’s also essential for absorbing and breaking down medications; even the little bacteria in your gut benefit from stomach acid. Medical experts know that using acid blockers for a long time can cause issues.
If you check the medication’s box, it won’t recommend using acid blockers for more than 2-4 weeks. But some people still use them for years or even decades.
Prolonged use of acid blockers can lead to gut infections like Clostridium difficile colitis and increase the risk of bone fractures, such as hip breaking.
Although acid blockers may offer short-term relief, they can potentially lead to issues such as nutrient deficiencies, excessive acid production, increased risk of infections, and dependency on the medication. So, while acid blockers may be helpful in the short term, they may create long-term problems.
Impact of Acid Blockers on Digestive System
Taking acid blockers as a long-term solution to manage acid reflux and GERD may have potential risks and side effects. One of the concerning aspects is the possible increase in the risk of stomach cancer associated with the use of certain acid blockers.
Research suggests that prolonged use of acid blockers may alter the stomach’s acid environment, leading to changes in the gut microbiome and increased vulnerability to certain infections.
Additionally, using acid blockers can affect the absorption of essential nutrients, potentially leading to deficiencies over time. Due to the risk of developing cancer, the drug maker of Zantac has changed the formula from ranitidine to Famotidine. However, it is essential to know that Famotidine, like its predecessor, still carries dangerous side effects.
These side effects can include confusion, delirium, hallucinations, disorientation, agitation, seizures, unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, and weakness.
Zantac and Omeprazole are common acid blockers individuals may use to manage acid reflux and GERD. However, being aware of the potential risks associated with these medications is crucial.
Zantac (Ranitidine)Â might contain a contaminant called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), which is classified as a probable human carcinogen. This contamination has raised concerns about increased cancer risk for individuals taking Zantac.
Similarly, long-term use of Omeprazole, another acid blocker (PPI), may also have potential risks, including altered stomach acid levels, disruption of the gut microbiome, and an association with health issues such as kidney disease, bone fractures, and nutrient deficiencies. Moreover, reports suggest a possible link between prolonged omeprazole use and an elevated risk of stomach cancer.
Other Negative Aspects od Using Acid Blockers
- Rebound acid production: When you’ve been using acid-blocking medicines for a long time and decide to stop, “rebound acid production” might happen. Your stomach starts making more acid than before because the drug is suppressing the acid.
It’s like your stomach is overcompensating for the time it was on medication. This extra acid can cause troubles like acid reflux and heartburn, creating a never-ending cycle of this problem.
Alters gut flora: The stomach contains specific enzymes that prevent the excessive growth of bacteria in both the stomach and small intestine. However, taking too many acid blockers reduces stomach acid, leading to a change that promotes the proliferation of harmful bacteria. This disruption in the balance of good bacteria in your gut weakens your immune system over time.
- Increases the risk of fractures: Prolonged use of acid blockers can decrease calcium levels in the body, increasing the risk of bone fractures and loss.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Research has found that using acid-blocking medications for a long time can stop your body from absorbing Vitamin B12. This vitamin is essential for keeping your nerve cells healthy. and a deficiency can lead to serious health issues.
- Impedes the absorption of minerals: Using acid-blocking medications for a long time can stop your body from absorbing essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. This can lead to a shortage of these essential minerals in your body.
Nutrient Deficiencies and Acid Blockers
Acid blockers can impact overall health by causing nutrient deficiencies and interfering with the digestive process. Long-term use of certain acid blockers, particularly proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), has such consequences as higher risk of heart attacks (study) by up to 16%, although the exact reason remains unclear.
Additionally, acid blockers, purpose of which is to aid the stomach can ironically cause more stomach issues and potentially can increase the chances to develop food sensitivities. Long-term use may raise the risk of food allergies and other allergies, such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis.
Possible reasons for this connection include gut microbiome disruption, impaired protein digestion, increased intestinal permeability, and alterations in the immune system as many diseases start in the gut, acid blockers medications can disrupt its balance and can contribute to developing other health conditions.
Acid Blockers and Digestive Health
- Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various functions in our body, including digestion. When we talk about “hormones that start with digestive hormones,” we refer to the hormones directly involved in the digestive process. These hormones are released in response to food in the stomach and are responsible for triggering different stages of digestion.
- For example, when we eat, the stomach secretes a hormone called gastrin, which stimulates the production of stomach acid essential for breaking down food. Another important hormone is cholecystokinin (CCK). It gets released in the small intestine, signaling the gallbladder to release bile to break down fats.
- However, when acid blockers reduce stomach acid production, it can interfere with the natural release and regulation of these digestive hormones.
- Lower stomach acid levels may lead to inadequate stimulation of gastrin and CCK. This disruption in hormonal balance can impact the entire digestive process and affect the efficient breakdown and absorption of nutrients from our food and problems in the gut lining and potentially leading to problems in the gut lining.
- As a consequence, various digestive symptoms and issues may arise, such as acid reflux, gas, bloating, burping, imbalance of good bacteria in the gut, bad absorption of nutrients, and trouble digesting food.
- Moreover, these imbalances can have cascading effects on other hormones in the body, leading to broader health issues beyond just the digestive system. All these are the main effects, but they can lead to many other widespread issues.
What About the Bugs?
In the digestive system, stomach acid acts as a defense mechanism against tiny harmful organisms such as parasites, bad bacteria, and viruses.
However, when acid blockers reduce stomach acid production, these organisms can survive and remain in the gut. Sometimes, they may even enter the bloodstream or migrate through the gut lining to other parts of the body.
This disruption in the gut’s natural defense system can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria and potentially contribute to various digestive issues and health problems.
Addressing the negative impact of acid blockers on the digestive system is essential for supporting digestive health and preventing potential health complications.
Acid blockers can interfere with the absorption of other medications, not just the food you eat. If you take acid blockers, your body may not fully digest and absorb certain medications, potentially requiring higher doses.
How acid blockers can interfere with medications
Unfortunately, higher medication doses can increase the risk of experiencing side effects. This is particularly concerning for individuals taking thyroid medications like Levothyroxine and Synthroid.
Acid blockers significantly reduce the absorption of thyroid medications, making it challenging for these patients to maintain proper thyroid levels. Consequently, they may experience more symptoms such as tiredness,  weight gain, hair loss, and other related issues.
They Might Make You More Likely to Get Stomach Cancer
They might increase the risk of stomach cancer, which is concerning since acid blockers are typically prescribed to prevent esophageal cancer. A study examining 11 other studies revealed that taking acid blockers for five years could raise the risk of stomach cancer.
Instead of reducing the risk of throat cancer, these medications might have the unintended effect of increasing the risk of stomach cancer, which is an unfavorable outcome. For this reason, it is advisable to discontinue using acid blockers as soon as possible to mitigate potential risks.
Your Risk od Having Osteoporosis Increases
Acid Blockers and Hypothyroidism Link
Using acid blockers can make it harder for your body to absorb thyroid medication. This includes medications like Levothyroxine, Synthroid, Natural Desiccated thyroid, Cytomel, and liothyronine.
No matter which thyroid medication you take, there’s a risk that the acid blocker will interfere with its absorption. It’s not just about taking both medications at the same time.
This is because acid blockers reduce acid production throughout the day, and this decrease in acid prevents the proper absorption of thyroid medication. So, even if you take the acid blocker in the evening and the thyroid medication in the morning, you might still face this problem.
Impact of Acid Blockers on Thyroid Function
Let’s discuss how acid blockers can harm people with thyroid issues. I made a list of 6 reasons you should be careful when using acid blockers if you have a thyroid problem, but there may be more reasons not mentioned here.
Acid Blockers and Magnesium Deficiency
Acid blockers can lead to magnesium deficiency due to reduced stomach acid production. Magnesium is crucial for over 300 enzymes in the body and affects the thyroid, potentially increasing the risk of autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Low magnesium levels can worsen thyroiditis and thyroid function. Increasing magnesium intake can improve sleep, reduce anxiety, regulate bowel movements, and boost energy. To ensure adequate magnesium levels, focus on consuming magnesium-rich foods, especially plant-based options. Additionally, magnesium supplements may be beneficial, especially if you’re on acid blockers.
They Make You Prone to Iron Deficiency
Taking acid blockers can increase the risk of iron deficiency, a crucial nutrient for thyroid health. The enzyme thyroid peroxidase relies on iron to function correctly, and if iron levels are low, your thyroid may struggle to utilize iodine in hormone production. Additionally, iron is essential for hair growth and provides energy to your cells by aiding in oxygen delivery for energy production.
For individuals with thyroid issues, iron deficiency can worsen thyroid function, creating a cycle requiring improvements in thyroid and iron levels. Women are particularly susceptible to low iron due to their menstrual cycle. It is a common story among thyroid patients, making this concern even more significant.Â
It is essential to monitor your iron levels regularly if you’ve used or are currently using acid blockers to address any deficiencies.
You Become More Prone to Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Taking acid blockers can increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, which is especially concerning for individuals with thyroid issues.Â
Around 40% of thyroid patients already have low B12 levels, and this deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, mental fog, and low mood.
Vitamin B12 is absorbed in the gut with the help of stomach acid. However, acid blockers can reduce stomach acid, exacerbating B12 deficiency in thyroid patients.
Thyroid patients must ensure their B12 levels are optimal, especially if they are taking acid blockers.Â
To address B12 deficiency, getting the correct tests and considering methylcobalamin, a more absorbable form of B12, in sublingual supplements or shots is essential. These options bypass the gut and ensure adequate B12 absorption.
Taking acid blockers and B12 is not recommended. Still, using methylcobalamin sublingual supplements or shots is a better option than capsules or tablets. It’s essential to get the correct tests and consider sublingual B12 supplements or shots, which bypass the gut and ensure adequate B12 absorption.
Although doctors don’t recommend taking acid blockers and B12, using sublingual B12 or shots is better than capsules or tablets.
You Might Have a Higher Risk of Developing Food Allergies
A higher risk of developing food allergies is a concern, especially when taking medications that block stomach acid.
Food allergies can affect both children and adults. Why? Firstly, acid blockers can disrupt the gut’s balance of bacteria and microorganisms, potentially influencing food allergies.
Secondly, these medications can hinder the proper breakdown of specific proteins in your body. When proteins are not adequately broken down, they can transform into larger fragments that might trigger an immune response.
Consequently, your immune system might start reacting to foods due to these protein fragments, resulting in sensitivities. This situation poses challenges for everyone, but it becomes particularly difficult for individuals with thyroid issues, who need to be extra cautious about their dietary choices.
When you already have certain restrictions in the foods you can eat due to acid blockers, finding the proper diet for your body becomes even more complex.
It’s crucial to be mindful of these potential effects and seek professional guidance to navigate dietary choices effectively and minimize the risk of developing food allergies.
Acid Blockers Raise SIBO and Dysbiosis Risk
When your body produces less stomach acid, it can impact the bacteria in your gut, also known as your microbiome. It plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health. It is essential to consume foods that foster their growth and strength.
In return, these healthy gut bacteria reciprocate by supporting your immune system, regulating your appetite, managing neurotransmitters like serotonin in your brain, and reducing inflammation. However, some individuals, particularly those using acid blockers, may experience challenges in maintaining a healthy relationship with their gut bacteria.
Reduced stomach acid alters the digestion process, leading to potential problems. Improperly digested food can serve as a food source for harmful bacteria in the gut, and the low-acid environment can foster the growth of such detrimental bacteria. Using acid blockers can exacerbate these issues, providing an environment conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut or colon.
Consequently, individuals on long-term acid blocker use face an increased risk of C. Difficile colitis, a harmful gut infection. Even in the short term, an overgrowth of bacteria in the gut, known as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), can develop.
SIBO causes gut inflammation, hampers nutrient absorption, and leads to symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating, and gas.
Discontinuing using acid blockers allows your gut bacteria to recover and improve. Treatments like probiotics and prebiotics might be necessary to help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Inflammation from Acid Blockers and Thyroid Impact
Acid blockers can lead to gut inflammation, potentially affecting thyroid function.
This is significant for individuals with thyroid issues because the gut plays a role in converting thyroid hormones, including T4, to the active T3 hormone.
Conditions such as gut inflammation, intestinal dysbiosis, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can interfere with converting T4 to T3 in the gut.
This, in turn, can affect the levels of free thyroid hormones in the body. Reducing gut inflammation may indirectly improve thyroid function.
What Causes Acid Reflux and GERD?
Low Stomach Acid and Acid Blockers
Stomach acid is essential for your body. It helps your body absorb vital nutrients. Many people, including most doctors, believe that GERD (acid reflux) is caused by high stomach acid and try to reduce it to relieve symptoms. However, in truth, high levels of stomach acid are rarely found. Researchers have known this for a long time.
Some people have found relief from acid reflux and GERD symptoms by taking vinegar and hydrochloride (“HCL”) capsules, which are affordable digestive aids found in health food stores. If your GERD symptoms are caused by low stomach acid or are at least partly related to it, taking an acid (not a base) might help. However, there could be more to the story, especially if you have chronic GERD symptoms.
H. Pylori Infection and Acid Reflux
Helicobacter pylori is a germ that can live in your stomach and the first part of your intestine. It has a shape like a rod or a spiral that helps it go deep into the stomach lining. The stomach is very acidic, but H. pylori survive by releasing a unique substance that makes the acid less harmful.
When germs enter your body, your immune cells fight and kill them. But these immune cells can’t reach H. pylori when it hides deep in the stomach lining.
H. pylori causes inflammation in the stomach lining and slows down the cells that make stomach acid. This can lead to problems like stomach pain, ulcers, and heartburn. But it can also cause other issues because less stomach acid makes it hard to digest food properly and absorb essential nutrients.
More than half of the people in the world have this germ. You can get it from kissing someone who already has it or sharing their drinks or utensils. Some people have no symptoms when they have H. pylori.
In contrast, others may experience symptoms like burping, feeling bloated, stomach pain when hungry, nausea, heartburn, fever, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or blood in their stools.
Having an H. pylori infection can lead to peptic ulcers, gastritis, and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Shockingly, about 98% of people who get stomach cancer, a common form of cancer, have an H. pylori infection.
Food Allergies and Stomach Reflux
Many people nowadays have trouble with certain foods. One common issue is when some foods cause GERD (acid reflux) problems. Gluten, found in many grains, is a frequent trigger for this. When you have a food intolerance, your immune system can react differently, and certain substances like IgA, IgM, IgG, and IgE may be involved.
Studies have found a connection between celiac disease and GERD symptoms; people with this disease feel better when they stop eating gluten. But even if you don’t have celiac disease, you could still be intolerant to gluten and have an immune reaction to it. Many people with unexplained GERD symptoms find relief when they avoid gluten. It’s estimated that a large number of people have problems with gluten.
Bile Acid Reflux
Bile acid reflux is when bile, a substance from the upper small intestine, spills into the stomach in the wrong direction. People who have had their gallbladder removed often experience this problem. There is a particular procedure to determine if you have bile acid reflux.
Like GERD, this condition is likely linked to issues with how certain valves in the stomach work. One valve lets food from the stomach into the small intestine, and another allows food to enter the stomach. Problems with these valves can be caused by low stomach acid, high stress (like cortisol), or H. pylori infection.
Dehydration and Acid Reflux
Water is vital for living things. A big problem may be hiding where we least expect it. Our cells need water and electrolytes to work properly. If the balance of electrolytes in our cell walls is off, it can weaken the cells. Water is also necessary for digestion.
Bile, which helps with digestion, is mainly made of water. The pancreas produces a substance called bicarbonate to neutralize acidic food in the small intestine, and this bicarbonate relies mainly on water.
Diaphragmatic Dysfunction and Acid Reflux
Diaphragmatic dysfunction can impact GERD by affecting the regulation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscle that acts as a barrier between the stomach and esophagus, preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
When the diaphragm functions poorly, it may weaken the LES barrier, leading to acid reflux symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. While acid blockers commonly manage GERD symptoms, they don’t directly address diaphragmatic dysfunction.
Seeking medical advice is crucial to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment for GERD associated with diaphragmatic dysfunction.
Hypothyroidism Is a Potential Cause of Acid Reflux and GERD
Hypothyroidism can cause acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When the thyroid hormones, particularly T3 (triiodothyronine), are not at the appropriate levels, it can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which acts as a barrier between the stomach and esophagus. This weakening of the LES can lead to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, resulting in acid reflux symptoms.
Addressing thyroid issues with T3 hormone therapy can play a vital role in improving digestive function and nutrient absorption, potentially alleviating acid reflux. By optimizing T3 hormone levels, the proper production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes can be restored, aiding in the breakdown of food and enhancing nutrient uptake. This can help break the cycle of poor digestion often associated with hypothyroidism and GERD.
However, it is essential to note that while hypothyroidism can contribute to acid reflux symptoms, it may not be the sole cause. GERD is a multifactorial condition; other factors like diet, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions can also play a significant role in its development.Â
Alternative Approaches to Managing Acid Reflux and GERD
Alternative medicine for GERD focuses on finding and treating the leading cause of the problem in a gentle way. Naturopathic doctors use a specific approach to address GERD by lessening the factors that trigger it, making the lower esophageal sphincter stronger, balancing acid levels, and healing the irritated tissue in the affected area.
Patients who follow these recommendations and use natural remedies often see their symptoms improve. This improvement might allow them to lessen or stop using regular GERD medication over time.
Why Consider Alternative Approaches For Acid Reflux and GERD?
This is a fundamental question to think about. In 2019, it was found that Ranitidine (also known as Zantac), a standard medicine for heartburn and GERD, can turn into a substance that may cause cancer. Many doctors prescribe it to babies, children, and adults, and it’s also available over-the-counter. Because of this issue, various companies have recalled similar drugs in the USA and other countries.
Research shows that another popular group of drugs used for GERD, called proton pump inhibitors (PPI), has been linked to problems such as memory decline, weak bones, and early death. When you take PPIs, your stomach has less acid, which can lead to more harmful bacteria growing. People who use PPIs have a higher chance of getting pneumonia and bacterial clostridium difficile infections in the hospital.
Some alternative methods include:
By Making Thoughtful Changes to Your Daily Routine
you can experience considerable relief. Some of these modifications include steering clear of trigger foods, opting for smaller, more frequent meals, refraining from lying down immediately after eating, and striving to maintain a healthy body weight.Lifestyle modifications: Making lifestyle changes can significantly improve GERD symptoms.
Herbal Remedies to Help Acid Reflux
Some herbs can be used to soothe digestive issues and may offer relief from GERD symptoms. Examples include chamomile, ginger, licorice root, and slippery elm.
Probiotics to Prevent Usage of Acid Blockers
The NIH studied how hypothyroidism is connected to problems in the small intestine. Probiotics can be considered an alternative treatment for acid reflux and GERD. Some studies suggest that probiotics can promote gut health and may have a positive impact on gastrointestinal symptoms, including acid reflux.
For individuals with hypothyroidism, which can be connected to gut issues, probiotics might offer additional benefits. However, it’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has not confirmed probiotics’ ability to prevent or treat any specific condition. As individual responses to probiotics vary, consulting a healthcare professional is essential before starting any supplementation.
Dietary Adjustments Supports Stomach Acidity
The NIH studied how hypothyroidism is connected to problems in the small intestine. Probiotics can be considered an alternative treatment for acid reflux and GERD. Some studies suggest that probiotics can promote gut health and may have a positive impact on gastrointestinal symptoms, including acid reflux.
For individuals with hypothyroidism, which can be connected to gut issues, probiotics might offer additional benefits. However, it’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has not confirmed probiotics’ ability to prevent or treat any specific condition. As individual responses to probiotics vary, consulting a healthcare professional is essential before starting any supplementation.
By Using Bed Risers or Wood Wedges
to elevate the head of the bed, you create a slight incline that aids in preventing stomach acid from regurgitating into the esophagus. This simple adjustment in the sleeping position can contribute significantly to minimizing nighttime acid reflux, offering you a more restful and comfortable sleep experience.
Mind-Body Techniques
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate GERD symptoms. Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can alleviate stress and promote relaxation, potentially benefiting GERD management.
Acupuncture
Some individuals find relief from GERD symptoms through acupuncture.
In one study, participants with GERD reported that acupuncture helped decrease their symptoms. They rated their improvement based on 38 different symptoms, including issues related to the digestive system, back pain, sleep, and headaches.
Another study showed that acupuncture positively reduced stomach acid levels and regulated the LES (lower esophageal sphincter), vital for preventing acid reflux.
There is a variation of acupuncture called Electroacupuncture (EA) that uses electrical current and needles. A new study found that using EA without needles increased the LES pressure and reduced acid reflux.
Combining EA with proton pump inhibitors resulted in significant improvement for GERD patients. However, it’s essential to remember that more research is still needed to understand the benefits of acupuncture for GERD fully.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments may be considered for individuals with GERD, as spinal misalignments could affect nerve function in the digestive system.
Aloe Vera Juice
may help soothe and reduce inflammation in the esophagus providing relief from GERD symptoms.
Digestive Enzymes
Taking digestive enzyme supplements may aid in the breakdown of food and support digestion, potentially reducing acid reflux symptoms.
Baking Soda
or sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline substance that can help neutralize stomach acid when consumed in small amounts. Some people use a mixture of water and baking soda as an occasional antacid to alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
However, it’s essential to use baking soda sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as excessive consumption can lead to potential side effects like electrolyte imbalances and increased blood pressure.
Melatonin
is a hormone produced naturally by the body that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Some studies have suggested that melatonin may also have gastroprotective properties, potentially helping to reduce acid reflux symptoms and protect the lining of the esophagus.
Melatonin supplements, when taken before bedtime, may improve sleep quality and possibly alleviate nighttime acid reflux symptoms. However, further research is needed to fully understand melatonin’s efficacy in managing GERD.
In a study from 2010, they looked at how effective treatments were for GERD (a condition that causes heartburn). They compared omeprazole (a common medication for GERD), melatonin, and a combination of melatonin and omeprazole. The study suggested that using melatonin with omeprazole could shorten the treatment time and reduce side effects.
It’s essential to remember that not all alternative approaches will work for everyone, and individual responses may vary. Before trying any alternative therapy, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to manage acid reflux and GERD effectively.
Probiotics
The NIH studied how hypothyroidism is connected to problems in the small intestine. They found that when someone has hypothyroidism, their stomach, and intestines might not work as well as they should. This can lead to too much bacteria in the small intestine, causing long-lasting stomach and gut issues, like diarrhea.
Probiotic supplements have good bacteria that can keep your stomach and intestines healthy.
You can also find helpful probiotics in fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, cheeses, and yogurt.
But the Food and Drug Administration hasn’t said that probiotics can prevent or treat any condition. If you want probiotics, talk to your doctor to see if they can help you
Conclusion
The use of acid blockers to manage acid reflux and GERD may have negative implications for thyroid health. Acid blockers primarily focus on reducing stomach acid production to alleviate symptoms, but they do not directly address potential underlying factors such as diaphragmatic dysfunction, H. pylori infection, bad diet, or hypothyroidism.
Moreover, individuals using acid blockers should be aware of the potential dangers associated with these medications. For instance, Zantac, containing ranitidine, has been found to carry a risk of cancer due to the presence of the contaminant N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen.
Similarly, Omeprazole, a commonly used proton pump inhibitor (PPI), has been associated with certain side effects, including increased risk of bone fractures and possible interactions with other medications.
Thyroid health plays a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, including digestion. Hypothyroidism, in particular, can lead to digestive issues, inadequate stomach acid production, and impaired nutrient absorption.
Addressing thyroid imbalances through appropriate treatments, such as T3 hormone therapy or herbal remedies, could potentially break the cycle of poor digestion and hypothyroidism. A comprehensive approach to managing GERD should consider both acid reflux symptoms and potential underlying factors like diaphragmatic dysfunction and thyroid health.
Alternative approaches, such as lifestyle modifications, elevating the head of the bed, physical therapies for diaphragmatic dysfunction management, and natural remedies like probiotics, can help manage acid reflux and promote overall gastrointestinal health.
By taking a holistic approach to GERD management and considering thyroid health, individuals can work towards alleviating symptoms and addressing the underlying factors contributing to their condition, ultimately improving their overall well-being.
It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions regarding the most suitable treatment plan for individual cases, taking into account the potential risks associated with acid blockers.
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Additional references
- Èfendieva M. T. (2013). Eksperimental’naia i klinicheskaia gastroenterologiia = Experimental & clinical gastroenterology, (5), 49–52.
- Mang, L. N., Chen, S., Chen, J. D., Jin, H. F., & Lu, B. (2016). Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Acustimulation on Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2016, 8246171. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/8246171
- Kandil, T.S., Mousa, A.A., El-Gendy, A.A. et al. The potential therapeutic effect of melatonin in gastro-esophageal reflux disease. BMC Gastroenterol 10, 7 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-230X-10-7
- Riehl, M. E., & Keefer, L. (2015). Hypnotherapy for Esophageal Disorders. The American journal of clinical hypnosis, 58(1), 22–33. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2015.1025355
- Patil, Anant D.. Link between hypothyroidism and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 18(3):p 307-309, May–Jun 2014. | DOI: 10.4103/2230-8210.131155
Image credits
Image of a healthcare provider holding Ranitidine suppositories –Â Â luchschenFÂ on Adobe Stock
Annotated diagram of the digestive system – Clker Vector Images on Pixabay
