DEAR DR. GOTT: For many years, I have had severe heartburn. I was diagnosed with a sliding hiatal hernia and was prescribed Nexium. Then I switched to Prilosec because of the exorbitant price of the first drug.
I tried to be health conscious and didn’t like taking drugs, so I attempted natural remedies, including calcium citrate mixed with AbsorbAid. Only the drugs worked.
Then two weeks ago, I stumbled on an article about the benefits of mustard for heartburn. It said to mix 2 teaspoons of mustard with a half glass of water at the first sign of heartburn. I stopped taking Prilosec and tried French’s mustard. I haven’t had heartburn since!
This remedy might not work for everyone, but I hope you let your readers know about it. By the way, I take the mustard as a preventive measure twice a day and, as I said, I have had absolutely no sign of heartburn since.
DEAR READER: There are approximately 40 different varieties of mustard plants; however, there are three basic types — black, white and brown. Prepared mustards commonly consist of ground mustard seed, vinegar, water and flavoring. There’s little to no fat and virtually zero calories. Many varieties included turmeric, a source of curcumin. It’s this ingredient that contains strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Mustard seeds are highly renowned for the high amounts of glucosinolates, which are believed to have anticancer properties. They are a good source of iron, magnesium, niacin, phosphorous, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc.
I am unsure why mustard controls your heartburn, but if it does, stick with it. You can also help your condition by reducing or eliminating alcohol from your diet, avoiding trigger foods such as tomato-based products, carbonated beverages, garlic, onions, citrus products and mint flavorings, incorporating a weight-loss program if appropriate, and elevating the head of your bed four to six inches. Beyond that, it’s good to know that if a person is experiencing symptoms at an inconvenient time, a trip to the refrigerator for the mustard will likely be the answer.
To provide related information on your hiatal hernia, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hiatal Hernia, Acid Reflux & Indigestion.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order made payable to Newsletter and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
