Reflux – the acidic belching in the esophagus
The word reflux means reflux. In medicine, this usually means the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux) But there are also other backflows, e.g. from the bladder into the ureter.
The cause of the reflux is the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus, which no longer functions properly. As a result, stomach contents, which are very aggressive due to stomach acid, return to the lower third of the esophagus, where chronic and painful inflammation occurs in the long term.
How do I recognize reflux
The typical symptoms are burning pain behind the breastbone, often at night, and acidic eructations. A gastroscopy (gastroscopy) must be performed to ensure the diagnosis. Painful swallowing disorders and weight loss are alarm signs.
The conventional medical treatment
Conventional medical treatment consists exclusively of drugs, so-called proton pump blockers, which significantly reduce stomach acid. The most commonly prescribed drug is called pantoprazole, it is very effective, but has to be taken for a long time. (For long-term side effects, please refer to the package insert for the corresponding medication) It is also recommended to refrain from smoking, alcohol, coffee and hot spices.
The natural treatment of acid belching with cayenne
When it comes to hot spices, naturopathic medicine has a significantly different view. Cayenne pepper significantly increases the protective layer of mucus in the stomach, which means that the acid can no longer attack the stomach lining, which is exactly the opposite of what most people believe. Since you can’t just eat cayenne pepper, there are capsules (Caye Vida) that only take effect in the stomach. The dose has to be increased slowly, starting with one capsule after the main meal and only increasing the dose if you can tolerate it. In my experience, cayenne capsules have a better effect than pantoprazole and they also help to burn some fat because it stimulates the metabolism.
