Is Heartburn Cure Worse Than the Condition?

Andrew L. Rubman, ND
Southbury Clinic for Traditional Medicines


Acid blockers, such as Nexium, Prevacid and Prilosec, can lead to fractures in people with osteoporosis. Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are potent acid-blocking drugs prescribed for people with heartburn and chronic indigestion. Doctors often tell patients that they must take these drugs for life -- but long-term use can interfere with the body’s absorption of calcium and minerals, increasing the risk for broken bones and hip fractures.

Self-defense: Ask your doctor about alternatives, such as digestive enzyme combinations prescribed by naturopathic physicians. If you must take PPIs, ask about limiting their use to as short a time as possible.

Bottom Line/Personal interviewed Andrew L. Rubman, ND, adjunct professor of clinical medicine, Florida College of Integrative Medicine, Orlando, and director, Southbury Clinic for Traditional Medicines, Southbury, Connecticut. www.southburyclinic.com

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