Mon Apr 26, 2010 2:01 pm   Reply with quote      

I seem to have a bad taste in my mouth that I cannot get rid of. Dentist shows no problems and Dr. confirms no sinus infection. I have also noticed a frequency in heartburn and general stomach discomfort. Could this be related to the taste in my mouth? It seems to vary from metallic, sour and slighty soapy. Could a digestive enzyme help??

Mon Apr 26, 2010 2:06 pm   Reply with quote      

Heartburn can cause a sour or acidic taste in the mouth. It often occurs when hydrochloric acid, which is used by the stomach to digest food, backs up in the esophagus (the tube between the throat and stomach), causing sensitive tissues to become irritated. When we eat, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes, opening to let food pass into the stomach. Before it can close again, some acid can make it from the stomach into the esophagus, which is called reflux. This can injure the esophagus because it does not have the same protective coating as the stomach. Once the esophagus is irritated, the LES malfunctions more frequently, causing more acid reflux and increasing pain - so it is imperative to get to the root of the problem.

A number of factors can cause or contribute to indigestion as well as increase symptom frequency and severity: decreased enzyme secretions, overeating or eating too fast, excess weight, poor diet, lack of friendly bacteria, certain medications, chronic stress, and eating foods that cause irritation. The foods that inflame the esophageal lining include citrus fruits, tomato-based foods, spicy foods, carbonated beverages, and coffee. Foods that can weaken the LES include chocolate, coffee, mint (especially peppermint and spearmint), sugar, onions, alcoholic beverages, refined foods, and vinegar.

Pancreatin or vegetable enzymes can be extremely beneficial for indigestion by assisting the digestive process. Probiotics are also useful in promoting digestion by secreting needed enzymes, encouraging peristalsis (the wave-like contractions of the intestine), and assisting nutrient breakdown by fermentation, which enhances food digestibility. Attached are documents providing more information on these nutrients.

Licorice root in its deglycyrrhizinated form (DGL) has been shown to improve the quality and quantity of the protective substances that line the intestinal tract, increase the lifespan of intestinal cells, and improve blood supply to the intestinal lining (see attached).

Download Probiotics$.JA.0606.pdf
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Download DGL.REPR.0603.pdf
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