Acid Reflux Linked to Esophageal Cancer? Connection Seen Between Rise in a Deadly Cancer and Gastrointestinal Disorders

 

WebMD Medical NewsReviewed by Louise Chang, MDNov. 10, 2005 — A dramatic rise in one of the deadliest types of cancers may be linked to the increasing rates of acid reflux and gastrointestinal disorders, according to a new report.

 

But researchers say a better understanding of how this type of esophageal cancer develops is needed before effective prevention and treatment strategies can be developed.

 

The report shows cancers of the esophagus and stomach are among the deadliest of all cancers with more than 80% of those affected dying within five years.

 

Although cancers of the stomach (gastric cancer) have been steadily declining over the last 50 years, studies show the incidence of a cancer affecting the esophagus (esophageal adenocarcinoma) has risen by about 600% over the past few decades.

 

Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer

In the report, published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, researchers reviewed studies on cancers located where the stomach ends and esophagus begins, referred to as the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ).

 

The major risk factors for this type of cancer are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its associated conditions, such as Barrett’s esophagus. In Barrett’s esophagus, precancerous changes are present. Other associated risk factors include alcohol and tobacco use, obesity, and eating a diet low in fruits and vegetables.

 

Studies have shown that the part of the esophagus closest to the stomach is more exposed to concentrated gastric acid and a variety of agents that may contribute to the increased risk of cancer in this region.

 

Despite advances in screening methods for this type of cancer, researchers say more research is needed to find new ways to prevent the disease and detect it early.

 

The researchers say that a limited ability to detect cancerous tumors early in this region has made it difficult for researchers to understand how to develop and create effective esophageal cancer prevention strategies.

SOURCES: Souza, R. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, November/December 2005; vol 55: pp 334-351. News release, American Cancer Society.

A special thanks to realtor and business colleague Catherine who shared this article of interest.
 

I have successfully worked with a variety of very challenging digestive disorders utilizing a non-medical approach.  

By adding nutrients to restore the health of the colon, reduce inflammation naturally, altering an acidic digestive system and making significant lifestyle changes we have reversed these conditions.

In the case of GERD and/or Acid Reflux our work has been one hundred 100% successful. It’s astounding to think that the rise of this very common concern has risen 600% !!  No wonder antacid ads are part of everyday commercialism.

 

Here is a potential list of high quality nutritional products that can offer relief and rebuilding and perhaps even a natural prevention strategy for esophageal cancer.

 

Chewable Calcium – a natural antacid without the high sodium, food dyes or artificial sweeteners

Friendly Bacteria – all health begins in the colon – by creating a strong intestinal fluora you absorb nutrients more effectively from your diet. A healthy colon also increases immune function

Digestive Enzymes - when the stomach begins to falter sometimes the enzymes needed for digestion are hindered – this supplement gives you specific enzymes needed to process certain foods

Calcium Magnesium - acid reflux has muscle spasmatic symptoms - calcium and magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant

Essential Fatty Acids - offer natural reduction of inflammation

Alfalfa – can alter the stomach PH making it less acidic

Peppermint and Ginger - a tea that can be soothing

 

A word about the medications perscribed for these conditions. I have been told about additional problems or harm, especially to the liver,  that come from the medications taken for acid reflux and gerd.

If you are choosing to medicate you can at least protect, detoxify and rebuild the cell damage caused to the liver by taking this product that has the herb Milk Thistle in it.

 

Finally, if a client does not transition to  fruits and vegetables well,  taking them in supplement form can begin the healing and rebuilding process. 

 

Above is an example of a comprehensive nutritional protocol for a person who is dissatisfied with a medical approach.  Each client is different and unique – programs and results can vary.


kangaroo flickr image esophagus credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Author
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition Weight Loss, and Green Clean
 

Fiber isn’t particularly fun to talk about. Yet when you don’t have enough fiber in the diet that’s not fun either. 

A nutritionist once told me that in order to get enough daily fiber in our diet we needed to eat:

13 cups brown rice ( brown rice is 7 times more fibrous than white )
an entire lb of carrots – that’s a bag folks
and 7 apples

Remember the conversation about the good, the bad and the ugly re: digestion ? 

The second best way is to supplement it. Tuck it in as we say. Be sure that it’s something you get “regular” about.

I have fiber tablets ( sourced from beets,soy, lemon and grapefruit), this includes both a soluble and insoluble fiber.  

I also carry a very special fiber that cholesterol binds to making it an absolutely excellant addition to a natural cholesterol lowering program.

Are you getting enough fiber in your diet?

fiber art flickr image credit

Karen Hanrahan ~ Wellness Educator/Nutritional Consultant/Blog Author
708.482.0678 ~ Websites: Nutrition Weight Loss, and Green Clean