I have taken a prescription Zantac for a long time, for my ulcers. When I get to the point I don’t think I need to take them, I eventually end up doubled over in pain, and start taking them again. Recently I’ve heard that taking antacids is not good. My question is: is this true? And if so, why, and what can I do so I don’t have to take them? Thanks.

Zantac and other antacids diminish the production or effectiveness of acid production in the stomach. The acidity of the stomach is the only place certain foods are broken, so when the acid production is reduced, that part of the digestive process cannot take place. If you must stay on Zantac, be sure to over chew your food to break it down as much as possible, especially the meats.

The two reasons antacids are prescribed are:

1. Acid is refluxing up the esophagus, call gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This is a problem with the sphincter that is supposed to be closed between the esophagus and the stomach. Many people have been able to identify what foods triggers their problem-carbohydrate intake is the most common, and some people have identified meat as their trigger. Obviously, staying away from the trigger is the obvious solution. I use vitamin E oil, not the refined vitamin E. One-half to 1 teaspoon every few hours will coat the esophagus and stomach and will protect the tissue from the effects of the acid.  Ginger tea is also helpful for stomach issues, as is deglycerized licorice.

2. The acid itself is causing stomach irritation, called gastritis, or even causing an ulcer.  Try DGL (deglycerhizinated licorice) wafers, that coat the ulcer and accelerate healing.

The last treatment is to look at possible emotional causes-stress, frustration, anxiety, fear, too much pressure, worrying over details, feeling of uncertainty. If these issues are not addressed, it is doubtful that any of the other above recommendations will solve the problem.  Also consider acupuncture, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Craniosacral or other energy-releasing arts that may get energy to the tissue for healing to take place faster. An FSM (frequency-specific microcurrent) has frequencies for the stomach and esophagus that may also facilitate healing.