Tuesday, December 19, 2006

What are the symptoms of GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common problems among Americans, in fact some of us may have it and not even realize it. Here are a few of the symptoms:

*Heartburn (the most familiar symptom)
*Eroded dental enamel
*Voice problems such as hoarseness or laryngitis
*Difficulty in swallowing
*A repeated feeling of the need to clear the throat
*Chronic coughing
*Shortness of breath
*Postnasal drip
*Esophageal bleeding
*Ulceration or stricture (narrowing) of esophagus
*Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
*Chest pain
*Asthma
*Barret's esophagus (a precancerous condition)
*Esophageal cancer

If you find yourself with these symptoms, consult your doctor.

Saturday, December 09, 2006

*Tip of the Week* Chew Gum

Chewing gum or even chewing on a toothpick thirty minutes after a meal has been found to help relieve heartburn in some patients, because chewing produces extra saliva, which neutralizes acid. However, chewing gum that contains oil of peppermint can relax the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, leading to acid reflux. Chewing gum doesn't help all GI upsets, however. People who experience gas or bloating should avoid chewing gum because it can result in swallowed air, which adds to the amount of gas in the digestive tract.

"Freedom from Digestive Distress" by Gary Gitnick, MD, 2000

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

New Customer Review for Hevla Coffee

I recently tried Hevla's low acid coffee, and was very pleased with it. Having tried other low acid coffee from other coffee companies, I was impressed with the richness and full flavor of Hevla's product. This coffee definitely has more flavor than other low acid brands I've tried and the fact that it is very gentle on my stomach makes it even better. I can now enjoy several cups of Hevla low acid coffee without any stomach discomfort throughout the day. I would highly recommend this coffee to anyone looking for a low acid coffee that has a rich, gourmet taste.

Josh V., Raleigh, NC

Try yours today.
www.thelowacidcoffee.com