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Beyond PPIs & H2 Blockers: A Natural Approach to Managing Reflux & GERD

Living with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or heartburn can be a very uncomfortable and uphill battle. The symptoms can interrupt your social life, dinners out with loved ones, good sleep, and cause you to avoid your favorite foods. With no shortage of medication and supplements when it comes to relieving symptoms of reflux and GERD, knowing your options is more important than ever. 

For too long,  Ear, Nose, and Throat specialists (ENTs) Drs. James Daniero and Spencer Payne witnessed the side effects of both prescription and over-the-counter medications and were concerned by the limitations of existing reflux relief options. They embarked on a mission to find a safer, more holistic solution. Years of experimentation in their home kitchens culminated in the creation of RefluxRaft.

But before we dive into RefluxRaft’s all-natural approach to reflux symptom management, let’s go over the common causes and triggers for reflux and GERD  in order to better understand the two traditional medication classes used to address it.

The Prevalence & Causes of Reflux & GERD 

GERD is incredibly common. While it is estimated that 22 percent of the US population suffers from this condition, it may be much more. That number doesn’t account for the many people who suffer without the traditional symptoms. 
Silent reflux, also known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)  can damage the esophagus without the obvious feelings of heartburn or indigestion. As a result, it may go undiagnosed for some time, resulting in long-term discomfort.

When it’s finally recognized, treating reflux can frustrate patients and physicians alike. Up to 50% of patients do not respond to the most common medications. Therefore, understanding your specific triggers and symptoms is critical when it comes to choosing the best treatment.  
 
So what are some of the causes? Heartburn can be caused by several factors; some more easily controlled than others. These factors include:

The LES is a muscle separating the esophagus from the stomach which is supposed to act like a one way valve, keeping things in the stomach. It can become weakened by obesity, smoking, or pregnancy. This allows stomach contents to more easily flow into the esophagus. Certain foods such as peppermint, spicy foods, fatty foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes and tomato sauce, caffeine, and chocolate can worsen reflux. 

Behaviors such as eating late at night, smoking or drinking, and certain medications can also contribute to reflux.  According to the American Gastroenterological Association, losing weight, avoiding food triggers, and elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate the symptoms of GERD. Unfortunately, despite these modifications and commonly recommended medications, many people continue to suffer from symptoms. 
 

Commonly Prescribed Medications: H2 Blockers & PPIs 

The main medication classes used to treat reflux include histamine receptor type 2 antagonists (H2 blockers) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Let’s explore the benefits and risks of these treatments.  

H2 Blockers: 

H2 blockers decrease acid secretion by blocking the action of histamine (which tells the stomach to produce acid) and are readily available over the counter. Some common H2 blockers (with generic names in parentheses) include: 

Potential Side Effects Associated & Limitations of H2 Blockers

Adverse effects are overall rare with H2 blockers but, when reported, are more common with cimetidine. Side effects can include confusion, headaches, drug interactions, diarrhea or constipation, and fatigue. In addition, many individuals may develop a tolerance to these medications and find that they stop working after several weeks.

While H2 blockers are often the first medication people try because they are readily available, some patients require a more potent medication such as a PPI. Let’s dive into Proton Pump Inhibitors. 

 

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):

PPIs inhibit the pump involved in acid secretion, but they are more potent and require continual use. Some common PPIs (with generic names in parentheses) include: 

 

Potential Side Effects Associated & Limitations with Proton Pump Inhibitors: 

PPIs are more effective and faster at relieving symptoms of GERD but this stronger action can result in more potential side effects. 
By reducing stomach acid, certain vitamins and minerals (e.g. B12, iron, calcium and magnesium) can be harder to absorb. Acid also keeps a normal balance in the GI tract. With reduced acid, good bacteria may give way to overgrowth of
Clostridium difficile (C. Diff) causing a severe intestinal infection. Here’s a list of potential side effects that have been associated with PPIs:  

   

An Alternative Approach: Enhanced Alginate Therapy

If you’re concerned by some of the potential risks associated with long-term use of PPIs and H2 Blockers, you’re not alone. As we mentioned, Co-Founders Drs. James Daniero and Spencer Payne founded RefluxRaft because they knew a gentler, more organic path to symptom relief was possible.
RefluxRaft combines the soothing properties of alginate-based gel with other natural ingredients to provide a gentle, holistic approach to both alleviating and preventing reflux symptoms. The main ingredient in RefluxRaft, Sodium alginate, is a naturally occurring substance extracted from the cell walls of brown seaweed (kelp). Within minutes of ingesting, the sodium alginate thickens and forms a raft, physically blocking the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. In addition, alginates can help protect and line the esophagus giving a soothing effect. Each RefluxRaft formula is enhanced with other natural ingredients for additional digestive health benefits:



Unlike the traditional medications listed above, RefluxRaft works locally in the stomach and esophagus, meaning it never enters the bloodstream. This reduces the risk of side effects and makes RefluxRaft suitable for long-term use. RefluxRaft targets the affected area directly, never entering your bloodstream, offering all the advantages without any accompanying side effects. 

Discover What’s Best For You 

Some studies demonstrate that alginates can be more effective than traditional antacids and might be as effective as H2 blockers. Remember, knowledge is key to taking control of your health. It’s important to work with your doctor to understand your unique triggers and symptoms in order to find your best defense for reflux and GERD symptoms. 
To help you prepare for talking to your doctor, check out this blog that outlines questions you should ask, which questions you should be prepared to answer, and a worksheet to help you track and talk about your reflux symptoms.

 

The statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool. We are not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation.