Dangers of Acid Reflux Medications

The Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or acid reflux, medications are often referred to as proton pump inhibitors (PPI). Their primary job is to block the natural functionality of our stomach that produces hydrochloric acid. When the medication neutralizes the stomach acid, you get temporary relief from acid reflux. However, you’re not addressing the root cause of the problem, you’re just treating the symptoms. Next day the stomach realizes that there’s not enough acid, so it pumps more acid. You take the medication again and it neutralizes the acid. This routine is repeated for weeks, months, and years. You start with over-the-counter medication, like Ranitidine, and then switch to a prescription medication. Then you need a stronger prescription, and so on. You keep playing this game for years and sometimes it never ends. A lot of people get hooked on these acid reflux medications and it affects there digestive system and overall health.

We’ve known many people who use these medications. A friend of ours has been using PPIs for over 25 years. One of our family members used acid reflux medications for years, until the third medication caused a severe reaction. That’s when we decided to look for alternatives and found a natural cure. The doctors said there was no known cure for acid reflux and insisted that the acid reflux medication is the only way to treat GERD. Well, that family member has not used any PPIs since 2007, has no acid reflux, and is as happy as a clam. See Our Solutions section at the end of this page for more information.

What Happens When You Use PPIs?

Some of the common acid reflux medications (PPIs), include:

  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)
  • Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
  • Esomeprazole (Nexium)
  • Pantoprazole (Protonix)
  • Rabeprazole (AcipHex)

When the production of acid is blocked, it temporarily helps the acid reflux symptoms but causes lots of other problems. Your stomach really needs acid to function properly. Taking PPIs to block the natural function of your body (i.e., pumping hydrochloric acid in the stomach) can cause several issues. Here are some of the benefits of the hydrochloric acid in your stomach.

  • Helps you digest food.
  • Aids in properly absorbing vitamin B-12.
  • Breaks down proteins (such as meat) and minerals so your body can easily absorb them.
  • Helps kill the bacteria in your stomach.
  • Protects you from viruses.

Hypochlorhydria

Long term use of acid reflux medications can cause hypochlorhydria, a condition caused by lack of acid in your stomach. According to WebMD.com, “The signs that you don’t have enough stomach acid usually show up a few hours after you’ve eaten. They may include:‌

  • Feeling like you want to eat even when you’re not hungry
  • Feeling too full after regular meals‌
  • Indigestion
  • Gas or flatulence
  • Bloating‌
  • Constipation ‌
  • Diarrhea‌
  • Soreness or burning in your mouth‌
  • Stomach upset and cramps
  • Undigested food in stool
  • Nausea
  • Heartburn

Low stomach acid can result in health conditions such as achlorhydria, autoimmune disorders, gastritis, skin problems like acne or eczema, and pernicious anemia.”

Our Solutions

Next time when you reach for the acid reflux medication, think about how it’s going to impact your health. You are much better off focusing on natural cures documented on this website, like Apple Cider Vinegar, probiotics, and IgG test for food allergies.

We have shared these solutions with our family members and friends. One Thanksgiving day we helped four friends get off their acid reflux medications. If you are experiencing acid reflux and would like to try natural cures, you should first read about Apple Cider Vinegar. Depending on the severity of your Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), you may also want to try probiotics. Remember, the experts will tell you that you can’t overdose on probiotics, it can only do you good. If you are facing serious digestive issues, read up on IgG test. This can be life changing. We also recommend plant-based diet. We plan to add information on this topic soon. In the meantime, you can visit ForksoverKnives.com and watch their documentary.

As always, check with your healthcare provider before trying any new supplements or treatments on our website, even if they’re natural, like ACV.