Managing GORD and related symptoms naturally calls for a thoughtful approach considering dietary, lifestyle, and herbal interventions aligned with Ayurvedic principles. Given your current condition and medications, incorporating Ayurveda can be beneficial, but coordinate with your healthcare provider to avoid conflicts.
Dietary adjustments are crucial. Small, frequent meals with attention to food choices can reduce reflux. Avoid spicy, fried, oily foods, and refrain from caffeine, chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus fruits. These can aggravate reflux and increase Vata. Eating an early dinner, at least 3 hours before bed, can also help reduce symptoms. Warm, cooked foods like khichadi or dal can soothe the digestive tract.
Lifestyle adaptations can significantly impact your symptoms. Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches to prevent night-time reflux. Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques such as pranayama to manage stress, which can exacerbate GORD. Refrain from lying down immediately after meals.
Herbal remedies may support your current regimen. Licorice root (Yashtimadhu) is known for soothing the digestive tract. Take it as a tea by boiling a teaspoon in water and consuming it twice daily. Amla (Indian gooseberry) can also help due to its anti-inflammatory properties; consume fresh or in powder form mixed with water.
Addressing the root cause involves enhancing ‘Agni’ (digestive fire) and balancing doshas. Trikatu—black pepper, long pepper, and ginger—can be taken before meals to improve digestion, but monitor its impact on your symptoms and discuss it with your son.
Gentle yoga postures like Vajrasana (after meals) can aid digestion. Regular physical activity is beneficial but avoid bending postures that increase reflux. As your condition is not immediately threatening, these complementary practices should ameliorate symptoms when integrated with conventional treatments.
