Are you one of the millions of people who suffer from acid reflux or GERD? If so, you know how uncomfortable and disruptive it can be to your daily life.
While there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available to treat these conditions, some people prefer to turn to natural remedies. One such remedy is milk thistle, a plant that has been used for centuries in alternative medicine.
But does it really help with acid reflux? In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of milk thistle and other herbal supplements for managing acid reflux and improving digestive health.
Does Milk Thistle Help Acid Reflux?
Milk thistle is a plant that contains an active compound called silymarin, which has been shown to stimulate the secretion of stomach acid. This can be beneficial for those with acid reflux, as it helps to support the digestion of foods and prevent reflux of foods and liquids past the oesophageal sphincter.
In addition to milk thistle, there are other herbal supplements that can be helpful for managing acid reflux. Fennel has a calming effect on the digestive tract, reducing the pressure on the stomach and the likelihood of acid or food reflux. Dandelion supports gastro-intestinal movement, meaning food will pass through the stomach appropriately, decreasing the demands on stomach acid and the likelihood of reflux. Artichoke contributes towards the normal function of the digestive tract, helping everything to move along at the correct pace and for digestion to occur effectively, eliminating any digestive issues.
Combining these herbs in a supplement such as Debloat & Detox can provide comprehensive digestive support for those with GERD. This supplement contains Milk Thistle, Artichoke, Dandelion, and Fennel seed which, as mentioned above, support digestive processes and provide indigestion relief.
What Is Milk Thistle And How Does It Work?
Milk thistle is a powerful herb that has been used in alternative medicine for centuries. It contains an active compound called silymarin, which is known for its liver detoxification properties. Silymarin has been shown to repair damaged liver cells and reverse the harmful effects of toxins such as alcohol, sugar, pesticides, heavy metals, and pollution.
Milk thistle also stimulates the secretion of stomach acid, which can be beneficial for those with acid reflux. By supporting the digestion of foods, milk thistle helps to prevent reflux of foods and liquids past the oesophageal sphincter.
In addition to its digestive benefits, milk thistle has been shown to restore and maintain glutathione levels in the liver. Glutathione is the body’s most powerful endogenous antioxidant and plays a crucial role in maintaining normal detoxification.
It is important to note that milk thistle should not be used as a replacement for medication prescribed by a doctor. Also, herbal supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.
The Link Between Digestive Health And Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. While there are many factors that can contribute to acid reflux, such as diet and lifestyle choices, there is a strong link between digestive health and acid reflux.
When the digestive system is not functioning properly, it can lead to an imbalance in stomach acid levels. This can cause food to stay in the stomach for longer periods of time, putting pressure on the oesophageal sphincter and increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Additionally, an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria and yeasts in the gut can lead to excessive gas and bloating, which can also contribute to acid reflux.
Maintaining good digestive health is therefore essential for preventing and managing acid reflux. This can be achieved through a combination of dietary changes and herbal supplements. In particular, herbs such as milk thistle, fennel, dandelion, and artichoke have been shown to support digestive processes and provide relief from indigestion.
By incorporating these herbs into your daily routine, either through dietary changes or supplements, you can help to maintain a healthy digestive system and reduce your risk of experiencing acid reflux. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet.
Milk Thistle’s Potential Benefits For Acid Reflux
Milk thistle has been used in alternative medicine as a possible aid in treating heartburn and other symptoms associated with acid reflux. The active compound silymarin found in milk thistle stimulates the secretion of stomach acid, which is essential for proper digestion of food. Without adequate stomach acid, food may not be broken down properly, leading to reflux of undigested food and liquids past the oesophageal sphincter.
While research on the effectiveness of milk thistle for acid reflux is limited, combining milk thistle with other herbs such as artichoke, dandelion, and fennel seed can provide comprehensive digestive support. These herbs work together to support gastro-intestinal movement, promote normal function of the digestive tract, and calm down spasms in the digestive tract, reducing the pressure on the stomach and the likelihood of acid or food reflux.
It is important to note that milk thistle should not be used as a replacement for medication prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, herbal supplements should be purchased from reliable sources to minimize the risk of contamination. If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Other Herbal Supplements For Acid Reflux Relief
Aside from milk thistle, fennel, dandelion, and artichoke, there are other herbal supplements that can be beneficial for acid reflux relief. Boldo, for example, is considered one of the best medicinal herbs for digestive disorders such as bloating, heartburn, and poor nutrient absorption in the stomach and intestines. It has been used for hundreds of years by native tribes in South America as both a culinary spice and herbal medicine.
Another herb that can be helpful is boldocynara, a clinically proven herbal complex made up of artichoke, dandelion, milk thistle, and boldo. This combination of herbs has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms such as nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal cramping, and bloating.
It’s important to note that while herbs can be helpful in managing acid reflux symptoms, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Precautions And Considerations When Using Milk Thistle And Other Herbal Supplements
While milk thistle and other herbal supplements may have potential benefits for managing acid reflux, it is important to exercise caution when using them. It is important to note that dietary supplements are not regulated like drugs in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. Therefore, it is important to choose a supplement that has been tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF.
It is also important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements. This is especially important if you are taking any medications or have any underlying medical conditions. Some supplements may interact with medications or exacerbate certain medical conditions.
Additionally, it is important to purchase herbal supplements from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds, and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs.
