I have found in many conversations with others that either they have one of these digestive diseases or know someone who does. The symptoms can be very bothersome due to the acidic erosion of the stomach, esophagus, and/or the intestinal lining. Depending on your particular case, you could be experiencing abdominal pain, heartburn, acid taste or burning in the throat area, bloating, nausea, irritable bowel, trouble with swallowing as when a hiatal hernia is present or other symptoms not listed here. There are prescription and over the counter drugs used to inhibit or reduce stomach acid, which your doctor might recommend. It might be a good idea to try these drugs initially while you do your research and weigh your options.

According to Dr. Linda Page, a traditional naturopath, rebuilding what had been damaged is the key. Some suggestions are: don't rush but be calm when you eat; watch your intake of fried, spicy, sugar laden, fatty foods; limit or eliminate coffee and alcohol, NSAIDS, stress, smoking, and aspirin. Food intolerances or allergies should also be checked as well as your prescriptions.

For those who choose an alternative route, some of the ideas that have worked for others include: aloe vera juice, yogurt for probiotics, ginger tea, MSM, L-glutamine, digestive enzymes, calcium/magnesium combo, slippery elm or DGL lozenges, mastic gum (no, its not chewing gum), lots of fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, carrot/apple/cabbage juice and pineapple. Of course you would not try adding any herbs, vitamins, or foods mentioned here until you speak to your doctor first. You need to be well aware of the side effects and interactions that can occur.