Customer Reviews (39)

Great book for anyone with stomach/digestive difficulties
What a great book! Even though this book was written a number of years ago, it is still the single best resource out there for anyone who is investigating digestive difficulties and issues like heartburn and acid reflux. We learned so much about these problems by reading this book . . . Even if you are only looking to know enough about your problem in order to talk intelligently with your doctor, you'll want to have this book as either a front-to-back read, or as a reference book. It is complete and thorough, and definitely leans towards natural cures as opposed to big pharmaceutical company interests. I take a lot of supplements, and I really learned about what could cause heartburn and what might help. Now, my acid reflux is controlled and livable. Before the book, I couldn't get through the night. Great stuff!

Best book on subject!
I have read many books on the sunject, and this is by far one of the best. If you buy but one book, it should be this one first. Next is 'Why Stomach Acid is Good for You'. This book talks on things more form the alternative health standpoint. If conventional medicine was working for you, you would not be looking for more help. I believe that the alternative way is the way to go for reflux.
This book is so detailed that I have had to take notes as I read it.

"No More Heartburn"
So glad I purchased this book. I have a hiatal hernia and suffer horribly with GERD. This book had some great ideas that I had never heard of before.I have tried a few of them and they really work. I had purchased other books that the treatments did not work.Great book, would recommend to anyone suffering from GERD.

This helped me A LOT! Problems gone!
After reading this book, my heartburn problems went away. It took less than a month. There are some common sense things in here but also A LOT of important things you NEED to know about food and drugs. The example menus are helpful to illustrate her ideas and inform your own diet. In other words, they helped me construct my own diets, but I didn't try to follow her menus to the letter as that is just too complicated. It was easier for me to just get the gist of it. I have not had any recurring problems one year after having read this book. I have suffered on and off for 15 years and her advice made lots of sense and has changed my eating habits. My advice, read the book, learn what you need to know, but just use her example menus as a guide. Can't say enough good things. Here's to your health!

It Worked
I cant believe it but this book cured me!

Although it is a tough read - the contents of the book help you overcome the pain.I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
Out of analysis and seven months pregnant, cookbook writer Rachel Samstat discovers that her husband is into analysis and an affair and suffers six weeks of intense heartburn. Reprint. 12,500 first printing. NYT. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

Fast Delivery!
Nora Ephron Knows How to Hit the Funny Bone! Somethings she writes seem a little crass upon first reading, then her recipes of dialogue, characters and scenes really start to flow into proper perspective. Gotta love it! I now have purchased 5 of her books. I highly recommend this author and her novels.

When your down in spirits just pick up a Nora Ephron book and soon your worries and cares are melted away with smiles, and giggles. I really did say giggles. Those cheery thoughts have taken the woes away, if only for a short time. It's nice to have a book to come home to or just get away from the rat race of life.I feel you have to have a strong understanding of life to get the total concept of Ms. Ephrons writings. They are well worth the read and time. Women are the ones who will get the most out of her novels.

Good book
Thank you for sending the book. I already have the movie and I know the book is a little different. However, it is just as funny if not funnier than the movie!

Arrogant ,Jewish Prince gets a pie in the face and much more
Rachel is a 38 year old ,chef, writer,comedian and producer of her own cooking show. She is married to a hunky Superstar Journalist named Mark. They have been together for almost 8 years and they are still in the honeymoon phase of the relationship.
That is until ,she is cleaning up after a party at their home , and comes across a letter from Mark's apparent fiance.In reading the letter, she discovers they have been together for nearly a year, and have recently bought a townhouse together. He is even attending marriage counseling with this woman.
To make things worse , Rachel is 7 months pregnant and the woman he is leavingher for looks like a giraffe.
Even though Rachel is devastated ,she tries to find out what she did that was so bad that he would abandon her like this. Unfortunately ,her husband makes himself scarce and won't talk to her about it.So they separate for a while and goes on a quest to figure out what do.It might sound like a downer,but honestly it isn't.
Rachel has a sarcastic weird outlook on life and as a chef, she sprinkles comfort food recipes throughout the book.The linguine and the peach pie are truly wonderful.

Sometimes she takes a break from the drama and just tells you funny stories about her life and how she became such an awesome cook.
My favorite one was about her Bizarre,late lush of mother who made these
disgusting casseroles and once faked her own death just to screw with people.
Other gems included "The Jewish Prince Routine",her dad's completely brown apartment and the chapter devoted to her nuerotic ex, hamster guy

Heartburn...pun intended
Heartburn is the thinly disguised version of the break up of Ephron's second marriage.Part of the magic of Ephron's writing is her conversation-with-a-best-girlfriend style.The other part is her ability to find humor in an otherwise devastating situation.She shows us that indeed there are times when we just need to laugh at our own follies...or take a small measure of revenge on a man who deserves it!

To help keep the situation light, and to keep the narrative from becoming too heavy, Ephron adds just the right amount of quirkiness to keep you reading without feeling like you're reading someone's final paper in a creative writing class.She describes, for example, her first husband's ridiculously deep attachment to hamsters. She predates Seinfeld-style humor with comments like those about she and her husband "dating" another couple.

Much of what's in the book is both funny and honest, showing the human side of human nature.She makes you believe that truth is indeed often stranger--and so much more annoying!--than fiction.I also found myself admiring the underlying strength beneath the humor of her ability to leave a toxic relationship, seven months pregnant or not.

Heartburn is a quick and satisfying read.It makes great airplane or beach reading.

Palatable but Dated
I'm not really a fan of Nora Ephron -- I find her films to be terribly schmaltzy, and whenever I've heard her on NPR, she inevitably says something inane. So, needless to say, I was not particularly looking forward to reading this novel of hers for my book group. It wasn't until after I picked it up and mentioned it to a friend that I learned it's basically a roman a clef about the dissolution of her marriage to Washington Post reporter Carl Bernstein (of Woodward and Bernstein fame). That gave the brief story a little more resonance and made it somewhat more interesting to read.

The gist of the story is that Rachel (Nora Ephron) is seven months pregnant with her and Mark Feldman's (Carl Bernstein) second child when she discovers that he's been cheating on her with a serial adultress (in real life, British politician Margaret Jay). Over the course of the rest of the book she attempts to deal with this in alternatingly comic and pathetic turns. She flees "home" to mid-town Manhattan, commiserates with her therapy group, commiserates with close friends who may or may not have already known of the infidelity, reminisces about the failure of her first marriage, soldiers on with her semi-celeb cooking career, reminisces about her oddball parents (presumably modeled on her real-life parents who were playwrights, screenwriters, and alcoholics), and sprinkles in various recipes along the way.

It's all perfectly palatable, if rather slapstick and dated, as the idealists of the '60s must confront the banal bourgeois behavior they've slipped into in the '80s. I suspect that readers of that generation may find it rather more entertaining and meaningful than Gen Xers like myself and those in my book group (none of whom were particularly taken with it). I guess the best I can say is that it's brief, and to my surprise I didn't hate it. The book was made into a film of the same name (scripted by Ephron herself), but I doubt I'll be seeing it as it stars two of my least favorite "icons" -- Jack Nicholson and Meryl Streep (yes, I know, heresy...). ... Read more

Product Description
Did you know that you can stop acid reflux immediately and permanently with out using any drugs? What if someone told you that fats, coffee, alcohol, spices and even smoking are not triggers for acid reflux and it had all been a big mistake? What if someone provided evidence that the small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) was responsible for the acid reflux and the huge increase in the rate of esophageal cancer? What if someone told you that GERD was not really a disease so much as our bodies way of coping with a diet we did not evolve with? Heartburn Cured makes a strong argument that consuming certain carbohydrates is the root cause and real trigger for acid reflux and the resulting complications like Barrett's and esophageal cancer. This breakthrough diet book is written by a microbiologist who suffered from chronic heartburn for 20 years before getting fed up with uninformed GI medical doctors prescribing drugs that either did not work or were associated with serious side effects and health problems like pneumonia and osteoporosis. In Heartburn Cured, the author explains the role of intestinal microorganisms in digestion and provides clear and easy to understand evidence that carbohydrate malabsorption leads to SIBO and resulting gas that drives acid reflux (and IBS symptoms as well). Heartburn Cured delivers a death blow to heartburn and GERD by harnessing the glycemic index to free you from GERD and heartburn as well as the PPIs, H2 blockers and even antacids. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Didn't work for me, but...
This book didn't work for me to improve my GERD, but full credit to the author for writing it. I believe we need more individuals like this, prepared to research from their own experience, to unlock the true nature of GERD and what creates it and maintains it as a chronic condition. I agree with the author that current theories and treatments don't get to the root of the problem and simply treat the symptoms. Sadly I believe GERD for many people, myself included, is a multi-factor problem and a single factor solution like that proposed here won't work. However, some, like the author may benefit from a single factor solution. For my part, my own experience has led me to believe that stomach distension is an issue for GERD suffers. I don't entirely buy the concept of 'weak' esophageal sphincter muscles (ESM)... it's my experience that actually habit forming incorrect usage of these muscles can be a significant factor in GERD. ESM are under our conscious control as evidenced by the actions of swallowing, burping and belching. I believe excessive use of the ESM in this context can effectively 'train' the muscles to be weaker in the direction of reflex. Like all muscles the ESM learn and grow stronger in the context in which the are habitually used. Anyway, in a nutshell, the books worth trying and may be one of many factors in GERD.

Essential Information
If you have reflux and are taking medication then read this book.Simple advice which will prevent pain and suffering and even stop progression towards an eventual death from esophageal cancer.If you follow the advice you will also reduce your odds for other diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Heartburn Cured - For Real
Great book on the dietary causes of GERD and a very easy read. The information given, by the author, was detailed without being overwhelming to the layperson.The diagrams and illustrations really added a lot to understanding the digestive process and how various carbohydrates affect the digestive system.

Low-carb => no heartburn:not a new concept
I have not read this book but am simply commenting on the fact that a few medical studies and tons of anecdotal evidence exist that support this book's premise.You certainly don't need to buy this book or follow his special diet to find out for yourself that eating fewer refined carbs will reduce/eliminate heartburn.I found this out accidentally when I went on the South Beach diet for several months - within 3 days I noticed I wasn't having any heartburn (normally a twice-daily occurrence that was so bad I would get headaches from the pain).This discovery was a miracle that literally changed my life and while I may not be dieting any longer, I still eat very few refined carbs.When I do indulge, the heartburn comes roaring back.So, buy the book if you're interested in this particular diet plan, but it's really not necessary if you just want to know that fewer carbs means less heartburn.

Heartburn Cured The Low Carb Miracle
An interested concept. It takes a book to tell you something the author could have explained in one chapter or an article. I still haven't been able to try this conept so I can't say if it will work or not. This reads like a technical paper - it just isn't very reader friendly. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

An important contrarian view
Last year I was taking Protonix and steadily greater amounts of antacid for reflux. My very experienced gastroenterologist was clueless. I was starting to have some blood chemistry problems that almost certainly were caused by zinc and magnesium malabsorption as the author claims.

Bottom line: I tried what she recommends: papaya enzymes, DGL, and SuperEnzyme. Over a couple weeks I tapered off Protonix and all antacids. A year later my blood problems have mostly resolved with help from a hematologist. I described this book's claims to the hematologist and she said that PPI overuse was quite likely the cause.

The book is a bit disorganized. Mine is full of Post-Its because you have to read about the supplement then how to use it in a couple different places. A few summary tables would be very helpful.

Also watch out for some weirdness mixed in with the good parts. For example, the author buys the whole candida yeast thing. I am fairly skeptical about this. See [...]

It is remarkable that the supplements mentioned above are almost never found in a drugstore. And the TV is full of ads for PPIs and antacids. If 25% of what the author claims is true, we have a bunch of folks headed for serious health problems.

Natural is the clue
My recommendation for all those which are suffering from Acid reflux and Heartburn, take seriously all the information on the book, be careful with your health and stop to put in your body those "medicines". I started to look for different alternatives, i talked to my doctor and he was in agree and he suggested me to star with Probiotics and now i stopped to take Nexium, made changes with my meals and i'm feeling better. All those medications has an incredible amount of side effects, next time, think twice before you hurt more your digestive system, go for Natural Alternatives and you aren't gonna regret.

Excellent resource for long-term GERD sufferers
This book offers a plausible theory (too little acid) that explains why a long-term GERD sufferer like me was never helped by the common offerings from the medical establishment (Prilosec, Nexium and the like).

It also offers solutions to various gastric problems that are simple, cheap, EFFECTIVE and supported by extensive scientific explanations.

The 4-star instead of 5-star is due to the preachy tone in the introduction.

Easy to read information that really help
I thought this book was a great read.It's easy to read and to find information.It's like a resource you can go back to and find information.I would recommend this to anyone wanting to get off of acid blockers and find natural solutions.There are a lot of helpful tips and instructions that anyone can follow.

Accurate and useful information.
As a health care professional, I have many clients with stomach problems. Martie has done an outstanding job on dealing with the facts, especially diet and natural products to aliveate symptoms.She has taken the guess work away for all of us. As a professional who only wants the best for her clients and colleagues, I know I can use her information with confidence.My clients who have read her book are thrilled and and that makes me very very happy. I have used the products she recommends and they work reliably.We all should give Martie a High 5 for putting this book together for our benefit. Thank you Martie for making my job easier. ... Read more

Product Description
This groundbreaking book unleashes a brilliant new plan for permanently curing heartburn by relieving the root cause of the problem: low stomach acid. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

Another Adoring Review
5 years ago I started suffering from Acid Reflux.My Doctor gave me acid blockers and, at first, they worked well.Then they stopped working.I had read of this phenomenon: people initially being helped by the acid blockers, only to have them stop working, followed by more intense treatments.I didn't want to get on that Merry-Go-Round, so I began looking for alternatives.

Nothing worked very well until I came upon Dr. Wright's book.I was skeptical, but at the time I was in so much pain-pain throughout the day, awakenings in the middle-of-the night, etc- that I would have tried anything.In addition to the HCL treatment, I also took massive doses of probiotics.I also took Mastic Gum.I don't know how much this latter helped with the cure, but it certainly reduced the pain.I very quickly got results and, in a matter of a few weeks, maybe three weeks, I was completely cured.I continued on with my regimen for some time after that, just to prevent a relapse.

Although I cannot say with certainty that this approach will work for everyone, I have recommended it to a few others having Acid Reflux, and they all benefited. In any case, it's worth a try.The book is [...] bucks and a bottle of HCL is about that much. Even if you add the other supplements (the probiotics and Mastic Gum) it doesn't amount to much in expenditure.

Excellent service
I will definitely do business with this company.The book came in prompt time and good condition.

lifesaver
Probably literally a lifesaver. This book allows you to understand and manage your acid reflux without the dangerous and expensive drugs. Once I realized what was going on, I was able to adjust my diet and lifestyle so that I could actually sleep at night again.

And it's all finally coming to light for the masses. Just search for the recent news on antacid / heartburn drugs and their risks. I know at least 2 people in their 30's who were on antacids and now have very serious stomach problems. Educate yourselves with this book so you don't end up like them!

If you are taking Prilosec or Tums read this/ BEST BOOK EVER
This is a must read for EVERYONE no matter your age for prevention or treatment. Once again the main stream medicine and the FDA have given us the exact opposite of what we need. Just follow the money. Dr Wright is the BEST DOCTOR and we are blessed tohave his knowledge

He has a radio show on Saturday, Pacific Time 1-2 pm called Green Medicine, you can call in and ask a question 888 312 5757

Tune into KVI 570 AM

Unravel the brain washing we get bombarded with on TV and everywhere

Excellent, but offers a limited view
Reading this book will have you coming away thinking the way to eliminate acid reflux is simply to take HCL pills. Well, I took some HCL pills and refluxed and it hurt like hell. If you are someone who has tested for low stomach acid then HCL pills probably are part of the solution--but not all of it. The information about the role of stomach acid in digestion is excellent, but by focusing almost exclusively on that topic it is woefully unballanced. After a lot of additional learning I'm realizing that this is only one part of the picture. From "Restoring Your Digestive Health" I've learned that diet plays a huge part in dealing with reflux. If you are eating something that doesn't agree with you, reflux could be the result--and your acid production could be normal. From "The Enzyme Factor" I learned about the importance of enzymes and more about the importance of diet--and particular avoiding milk.

Buy it, but read more--much more! ... Read more

Product Description

Get permanent relief from digestive problems without expensive tests and medications-in just one month!

Your medicine cabinet is brimming with antacids, gas relievers, and digestive aids of every description. You may have tried lightening up on rich foods or spending money on tests and pricey medication. But your suffering has only gotten worse.

Maybe it's not another pill you need but a good dose of common sense-that and a man with a plan for making you better.

Harvard Medical School's Dr. Norton Greenberger has devoted his career to understanding digestive problems and bringing relief to the people who suffer from them. 4 Weeks to Healthy Digestion clearly explains what causes most common digestive disorders and gives an easy-to-follow, nutrition-based plan for curing what ails you. In just four weeks you'll:

• Beat diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, bloating, gas, dyspepsia, and more
• Identify the food, drink, and drug culprits making you sick
• Learn about how when, where, and how much you eat influences your health
• Eat your way to good digestive health with the delicious recipes included

Customer Reviews (3)

A Great Book that May Help Identify Minor Digestive Problems
I bought this book for my wife and she likes it.

When it comes to medical, I prefer a book that is by a medical doctor as opposed to a book that is merely opinion or self taught. This book being written by a Harvard Doctor was the selling point for me.

However, If one has severe or a long history of symptoms, I would see a doctor before doing what any book says. I am a firm believer in not only good doctors, but in more than one doctor's recommendation when necessary.

Conclusion: This book can be useful in identifying which foods may be causing a minor digestive problem. However, again, no book is a substitute for good medical attention and advice.

Disappointing.
There is really nothing in this book that isn't already widely available for free through other sources. Basically, it's a book for novices, especially those who are ignorant of health and nutrition and eat the typical high fat, high sugar, industrial nonfoods that make up much of the American diet. But long-time sufferers of any of the conditions addressed in this book have probably already done their research and tried multiple strategies, including those suggested here. Save your money.

Well worth the read
I am actually a patient of Dr. Greenberger (I see him for mastocytosis) and I think he is a phenomenal doctor, very easily one of the best I have ever had. This book is enjoyable and easy to read...giving a lot of useful information without being overly dense.
a+ ... Read more

Product Description

Do you suffer from heartburn? Is an ulcer bothering you? Are the difficult symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome compromising your life? If so, you are not alone. You are that one out of every three Americans that suffers from chronic digestive problems.

Customer Reviews (15)

Why intestinal blocks?
I have contracted four blockages of the small intestine over the past ten years, one requiring surgery.No specialist has been found that can offer a cause or suggestive preventive measures.Very frustrating.Dr. Peikin addresses just about every intestinal disorder except blockages.I was dissapointed.

Awesome book
This book was a great addition to add to my collection of health books. It offered sound wisdom and advice to prevent, avoid, correct and treat varies medical condition cause by gastrointestinal problems.

Not very useful information
I purchased "The Wonder of Probiotics" at the same time as this book. The Wonder of Probiotics contains plain and simple valuable information on how to use probiotics to improve your health. I found this book very boring and not containing useful information on how to incorporate probiotics intoyour life. Don't waste your money.

Great information, interesting read...
I finally understand after reading this how all the organs in my digestive system work.And it's not as gross as you might think.It's interesting to read how different foods and drugs you ingest each affect each organ differently, as well as potentially causing pain to those who are sensitive, or who have different conditions.A must read for those with persistent IBS, heartburn, gas, or other digestive issues.

Great book for GERD sufferers
This book has it all; concise explanations of the etiology of each gastroenterologic problem and simple practical solutions.Generally, the doctor proposes a high fiber, low fat diet but each patient has to tailor their diet to their own specific needs as clearly there are certain foods that are fine for some, an irritant for others.I would note that contrary to one reviewer, I have made a number of the recipes.They are fairly simple, mostly typical ingredients and have been delicious.
The one problem I have with the book is the contradictory advice with respect to some specific food items.For example, if you suspect that your LES valve muscle is the culprit, the recipes in the 2 week plan contain a good deal of ingredients (citrus fruits, cocoa) which may irritate that condition.The doctor has not provided alternatives to substitute for these ingredients.Generally though, I think the implied message is you have got to get to know your body well as you lower the fat and increase the fiber in your diet. ... Read more

Product Description
How to recognize symptoms, get an accurate diagnosis, and find the most effective treatment
Who is at risk for heartburn and reflux? What forms does reflux take? Is self-treatment dangerous? Heartburn and Reflux For Dummies answers these questions and helps readers work with their doctors to control symptoms, heal esophageal inflammation or injury, and avoid complications. It offers the latest information on prescription medications; alternative remedies; and the benefits and risks of surgery. Also, the book helps readers reduce stress and fine-tune their diets by identifying the foods that trigger upset, controlling portions, and timing meals to minimize heartburn and reflux.

Carol Ann Rinzler (New York, NY) has authored more than 20 books on nutrition, food, and health. Ken Walker, MD (Jacksonville, FL), is a Trustee and Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Robert Greenbaum
Better than anything else on the market for getting a complete overview of GERD, especially "silent GERD"/LPR.

Some Interesting Material
I'm not quite sure that I would agree that this is a book for dummies.Although the print layout is attractive and interesting and the diagrams are helpful, there seems to be too much material that is too sophisticated for a "dummy." That is not to say that there isn't considerable information that is both worthwile and interesting on the topic because there are many practical suggestions and advice.If the reader can zero in on the main points, this can be a very helpful resource for anyone concerned with heartburn and reflux.

trustworthy author
I've several of Carol Ann's books, including Nutrition for Dummies, and she is a worthy author.

Another useful one in this clever series ...
It's true: it explains what many MDs neglect to mention in the office.Very useful reading -- BEFORE you go in to talk to the doctor.This will give you a framework for the best questions to ask.Unfortunately, the burden is on you, the patient, to ask them!Most docs volunteer nothing!Counterintuitive, I know, but it's the reality.Arm yourself with this simple, smart, easy to understand book.

Heartburn & Reflux forDummies
I learned more about acid reflux in two days of easy reading then I learned from my doctors in five years.Great Book! ... Read more

Product Description
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) —a digestivecondition characterized by the abnormal flow of gastric acid into theesophagus that can damage the fragile esophageal lining, among othereffects—causes burning pain, nausea, and vomiting for millions ofpeople each day. Now, in Eating for Acid Reflux, authors JillSklar and Annabel Cohen, both of whom have suffered from reflux, offeran invaluable resource for all those seeking relief from acid refluxsymptoms. Split into two user-friendly sections—handbook andcookbook—Eating for Acid Reflux includes:

• Essential information on the nature of GERD, from epidemiology to common causes

• Mainstream and alternative therapies and essential lifestyle modifications

• Personal stories from others with the condition

• Over 100 healthy, tasty, low-fat, low-acid recipes for every meal, ranging from American culinary favorites to recipes with exotic Asian, South American, and Mediterranean influences

• Simple substitutes for seemingly forbidden foods such as desserts and salad dressing

• A handy glossary and extensive list of resources

Eating for Acid Reflux is perfect for everyone newly diagnosed with acid reflux as well as for those who’ve struggled with the condition for years and are seeking new tips and diet ideas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

You don't have to have acid reflux to enjoy this book
There is a lot of good advice on reducing acid reflux and leading a healthier life style in general(although nothing will make me quit smoking) in this book. There are whole sections devoted to treatments, including alternatives to surgical procedures. Even more important, for a foodie like me, are many mouth-watering recipes that are low-fat in addition to low-acid: everything from soup to nuts (literally). I would serve these to guests that do not have acid reflux.Without giving anything away, I hope, "Green beans with Pecans and Warm Honeyed Apple Dressing"and "Sesame Chicken Satays with Peanut Sauce" are among the 100 recipes included in this book.

Everything But Cookbook Section Good
My main objective in buying this book was to find some easy recipes for tasty food I, as a reflux sufferer (laryngo-pharyngeal reflux, to be exact), could enjoy.This was not the case at all.The book is very readable, and the information about reflux and things aside from diet that you could do to reduce it were helpful to some extent.However, I found the recipes dauntingly complex (my absolute favorite cookbook before this diagnosis was Cook Your Meals the Lazy Way), and included ingredients I had not heard of, were not common, or that are on the list of things people with reflux shouldn't eat.Some of these "forbidden" ingredients are marked with "as tolerated" or some such, but what good is that?I could take any everyday recipe from my standard cookbooks and simply remove the ingredients I'm not supposed to have (which is what I have been doing which results in a blah dish).Most of the lifestyle changes one needs to make for this condition (such as sleeping upright, not eating or drinking 3 hours or more before going to bed, etc.) are depressing enough, but the most depressing factor is having to eat the dullest, blandest food imaginable and feeling hungry all the time because of it or lacking any appetite because you know how dull and bland the next meal will be.I was really disappointed in the cookbook section.If you want to read it for the reflux information, then just borrow it from your local library; don't buy it.

a life saver!
I've recently been trying more natural remedies (not pills) to manage my gerd symptoms, and this book has helped me so much! I've found that I'm best off if I make my own food, that way I know exactly what's in it and that there won't be any trigger foods present. This book is full of tons of great recipes that are easy to follow, don't have a lot of hard to find ingredients, taste good, and don't give me any pain after eating! I've actually never really cooked regularly before, but now I want to all the time. I've made probably about 5 different things out of it in the past 2 weeks and they've all turned out well. The first half of the book has a lot of good information too, stuff that I already knew, but stuff that could be very helpful to someone who has not previously read countless books on gerd. I would highly recommend this to anyone trying to manage their symptoms without drugs.

I noticed some other reviewers mentioned that there are some ingredients present in the recipes that cause gerd symptoms for them. If you read the paragraphs before that section, they explain that trigger foods vary per person. Something that causes symptoms for you may not cause symptoms for another person. They give you ways to substitute out for other ingredients, and in some cases say that if this ingredient causes you problems, just leave it out. I've done just that and everything worked out well.

Handbook for acid reflux
My wife has had MS for several years now and I've been trying to get her to eat healthy because of it.She and I both suffer from acid reflux - her's stems from her MS.

After reading the book she changed her eating habits. Within a few weeks her acid reflux actually abated.She's eating much healthier now and the reflux is on the mend. She now 'swears' by the book and it really helped.

My acid reflux has been long term and while the book is good, my results haven't matched the wife's.

The book makes you responsible for your results.The recipes aren't exactly 'worker friendly' - as they take time and if your job involves many hours....they won't work.It might have been better if the recipes weren't included and just facts about what works, and doesn't, - were expanded.

Saying that, the book does work.It's a wonderful book - much recommended.

Reviewer says tomato paste not good to use.
To the reviewer that said tomato paste is not good, I have two
books with recipes using canned tomatoes and tomato paste.I
am new to this problem, but using these books I have lost almost
5 pounds in 5 days.I only get mild attacks at bedtime but I
will conquer this.Incidentally, I have so far eliminated all
pills prescribed to me at the start of this problem which
aggravated the situation something awful.

Good luck in your quest - there are many books to choose from
at amazon.com, etc. ... Read more

Product Description
Your Guide to Complete Digestive Health

A healthy digestive system is essential for total wellness, and digestive issues that cause discomfort and pain can seriously hamper our enjoyment of life. While there's no quick fix for curing the gut, effective holistic remedies can naturally, gradually alleviate almost every kind of gastrointestinal problem.

In The Healthy Gut Workbook, you'll find a complete plan for restoring your body's delicate balance through gut-friendly meals, simple lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and, if needed, medications and medical procedures. You'll learn which foods to add and remove from your diet to dramatically reduce your symptoms right away, and also discover a variety of strategies for maintaining gut health. No matter what digestive problems you suffer with, the healing solutions in this workbook will help you find relief.

This book includes integrative treatment plans for:
• Heartburn and reflux
• Gastritis and ulcers
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Excessive gas
• Gallstones
• Pancreatitis
• Liver disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Crohn's disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Diverticulosis
• Hemorrhoids

Customer Reviews (6)

Great book from national expert
This is a terrific new book on an important topic by one of America's leading integrative physicians. THANK YOU for this resource we can use with our patients and in teaching medical students and residents a more integrative approach.

So practical and full of information
In my clinical practice, "gut" conditions are commonplace and rarely do I find a source, like The Healthy Gut Workbook, that is helpful in clinic as well as an excellent resource for patients. It nicely brings together all aspects of healthy eating, including wisdom from integrative and functional medicine, and up-to-date research and gastrointestinal references, and it provides interactive activities to help us learn about our GI tract and relevant habits. I'm sold; this is "the" resource book for patients' common GI conditions.

Best advice ever!
After suffering for years with repeated episodes of diverticulitis, complete with E.R. visits, high fever and excruciating pain, my doctor advised surgery. I became aware of Dr. Sierpina's holistic approach to healing digestive ailments.After following the advice he gives in this book for diverticulitis, I avoided a repeat occurrence for a year, until travel interrupted the high fiber and supplement regime.By immediately resuming high fiber and his other supplement recommendations, the inflammation quickly resolved and I was able to avoid the antibiotics and pain meds.It is wonderful to know that choices I make can keep me pain-free and healthy!

Dr. Sierpina's holistic, integrative, practical, self-help advice will bring great relief to readers suffering from gut issues ranging from heartburn and reflux to constipation to IBS and Crohn's disease and hemorrhoids, and more besides. I'm giving copies to family members who suffer from digestive health issues, and to our Internist who encourages his patients to practice good self-care.

Healing Our Gut for Wellbeing
Dr. Vic's Sierpina's The Healthy Gut Workbook describes excellent information on cycles of digestion and elimination and the impact and influence of both internal and external events such as stress levels, exercise, sleep, and nutrition on the gut. It is one of the best books addressing gut conditions such as heartburn, ulcers, IBS, constipation and more. In this informative and well-organized book you will find everything you need to create step-by-step lifestyle actions for a healthy gut including preventive and integrative medicine that lead to greater health and wellbeing.

Barbara Dossey, PhD, RN
Director, Holistic Nursing Consultants and Director, Integrative Nurse Coach Certificate Program

Author Holistic Nursing: A Handbook for Practice and Florence Nightingale: Mystic, Visionary, Healer

Healthy Gut Workbook
WOW! What a helpful, concise and down to earth explanation of many gastrointestinal problems and their solutions. Dr. Sierpina did a masterful job of distilling very complex topics into a very user friendly format. I particularly like the helpful charts at the end of each chapter. This is a "MUST READ" for anyone who wants a healthy gut! And don't we all.Julie McKee, MD ... Read more

Product Description
It's not "just heartburn."—acid reflux disease may be more serious than you think

Nearly everyone has experienced heartburn, the sensation of burning discomfort in the chest, often brought on by eating a large meal.In fact, heartburn is the most common gastroesophageal disorder in the United States—more than seven in ten adult Americans suffer from heartburn each month. Few people, however, realize that heartburn is really just one symptom of the disorder known as acid reflux disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid repeatedly washes up into the esophagus, or remains in the esophagus too long.

Most people experience GERD as a cluster of simple symptoms—belching, chest pain, and indigestion. Others suffer painful or difficult swallowing, asthma, chronic cough, and hoarseness, symptoms that can indicate a more serious disorder or lead to such complications as bleeding, esophageal stricture, and esophageal cancer. Some people, however, experience no symptoms—and they run an especially high risk of developing complications.

Healing Heartburn seeks to educate people about GERD's symptoms and the range of available treatments and also to help people take charge of their lives by doing something about their own acid reflux disease.Authors Dr. Lawrence J. Cheskin and Dr. Brian E. Lacy cover diagnostic tests, a step-by-step approach to treatment, the effectiveness of medications, complications and how to avoid them, and special considerations for pregnant women and for children. Illustrations, questionnaires, patient vignettes, answers to commonly asked questions, and a list of additional resources round out this comprehensive patient guide. ... Read more

Product Description
From a clinician with 22 years experience and a fellow of Britainís National Institute of Medical Herbalists, come four new guides to total herbal health. Each volume is a thorough exploration and study of the uses of herbs as preventatives and treatment.

... Read more

Product Description
44% of Americans experience heartburn and acid reflux on a regular basis.

Acid reflux disease, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a serious affliction affecting millions of Americans. With GERD's severe symptoms not always responsive to treatment, the result is often a poor quality of life. This welcome book is a comprehensive resource to crucial medical facts and coping mechanisms for those who suffer from this condition.

Information from the most recent scientific studies is included on such key topics as:- Understanding the condition and its medical considerations- Signs and symptoms- Healthy eating habits- Conventional medical treatments, including drug therapy, endoscopy, and surgery- Effects on personal and family lifestyle

Since healthy eating is key to the management of acid reflux and GERD, the authors include 100 specially tailored recipes. These creative and tempting dishes are satisfying and delicious, and all will be well tolerated by those with acid reflux problems. They include:- Vegetable Spring Rolls- Chunky Tzadziki Spread- Super Soothing Vegetable Stock- Nonna Vertolli's Minestrone- Baked Spinach and Rice Casserole- Smoked Salmon Stuffed with Light Cream Cheese

Chronic hearthburn is a recurring problem affecting millions. For them, this encouraging book will be useful on a daily basis. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Concise Resource and Guide
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (10/10)

Anyone that has experienced heartburn knows that it is "a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), a digestive disorder that is the result of an abnormal backflow of acidic juices from the stomach to the esophagus."This is a result of disruption to normal process of digestion that targets 44% of the American population. Prolonged and untreated, it may cause chronic inflammation, esophageal strictures, or esophageal cancer. Common treatments are over-the-counter medications, drug treatment, surgical intervention or change of lifestyle which means a change in diet.

Wendland and Ruffolo, in their book "Chronic Heartburn," give the reader an understanding of what causes heartburn as well as who is susceptible to the disease.They cover treatments and nutrition/diet plans along with providing healthy recipes to help heal and prevent heartburn.Much of the information is presented in easy-to-read charts.

Because this book has recipes, and for the purpose of this review, we are asked to test a few out.The first one I tested was "Fennel Soup."The soup was delicious and was a hit.A note with the recipe says "Fennel is a revered digestive aid, making this soup a must on bad heartburn days."

The next recipe that I tested was "Herbed Zucchini."Using fresh basil, parsley and fennel seeds gave the traditional zucchini a different twist.We liked the change.The note with the recipe says "This dish is packed with reflux-friendly ingredients..."

"Chronic Heartburn" is a great resource book for people that suspect they have this digestive issue or those that have been diagnosed with the disease.It gives further understanding of why the person has heartburn and how it can be addressed and/or prevented.Hopefully this will be done before a radical surgical procedure must be performed or cancer sets in. This book is an investment for a healthy lifestyle.

It wasn't bad.
I could have found a lot of the information online, but this book presents the information better. A lot of the internet research I did had the same information repeated on every web site, a list of foods you shouldn't eat. Although this book has fairly basic information about nutrition, it tells you to eat right instead of just staying away from certain foods.

The recipes are good too. I've made three things from there and none of them give me problems. They are also all very good.

For more in-depth information on acid reflux, though, I would recommend 'heartburn and reflux for dummies'

Chronic Heartburn Review
I really like this book. Some things are a little contradictory to other web sites such as eggs should be eaten with caution and then they suggest it for one of your meals. However, there are alot of recipes that I have found to be very soothing for my stomach. Especially the beta power soup. I was to the point to where medicine wasn't even working for me very well and this book helped me to get on the right track. I do feel better since following the diet and would recommend this book.

Good Overview and Handy Recipes
This book gives a good overview of the problem, with a lot of basicinformation with a good level of detail, but in not too technical terms.
The diet recommendations are great, and helped me put together the best diet plan for me. I especially appreciated the explanations of why different foods are bad for you, because there are about 4 different ways foods can contribute to the GERD problem.One or two of the meal plan suggestions might be questionable, such as eating strawberries when you have severe pain, but otherwise, it does a great job. The recipes are helpful, too.

A Disapointment
I had high hopes for this book but they were not fulfilled.The information section would only be helpful to people who are totally new to the wonderless world of acid reflux it is also somewhat depressing.
The recipes are ok but they aren't that wonderful
This book is definently not the place to start if you need help with this problem
Good Luck to us all ... Read more

Product Description
Designed to help people with common digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, this practical four-week approach provides diet and exercise guidelines, stress reduction techniques, illustrations, charts, meal plans, and recipes. Drawing on his extensive clinical experience, Andrew Gaeddert helps the reader make sense of natural healing techniques based on Chinese medicine, rotation diets, and anti-candida strategies. Case studies illustrate how the author’s clients were able to reduce or eliminate their digestive problems, enjoy greater energy, and reduce discomfort. Gaeddert explores food sensitivities, developing tolerance for certain foods, and preventing food reactions. Useful appendices address obstacles to health, reducing fat intake, digestive-friendly grains, and food families. For the one out of three Americans who will have a digestive disorder in their lifetime, this is an accessible, step-by-step guide for dealing with digestive disorders. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A lot of good information
This was full of good information but I was disappointed it didn't cover GERD in more detail and explain more about how to treat it at home WITHOUT antacid medications.I was so hoping I would find out more about this topic having dealt with GERD for the past 5 years.

Usefull ideas
I ou have a digestive problem or want to be healthy this book gives you usefull information

Disappointing
An awful lot of advice....but nothing exacting. Don't think you are going to read this and be able to cure yourself. A lot of medical info is wishy-washy and often contradicted from one chapter to the next. With thelevel of chinese medicine he is recommending...you still need aprofessional.

Why I wrote this book
I wrote Healing Digestive Disorders to give hope to millions of digestive patients who are frustrated with their health.HealingDigestive Disorders has hundreds of effective treatments using Chinese and western herbs,supplements, diet and lifestyle tips, and an overview of western medicine.I suffered from both Crohn's disease and IBS. My search for therapies tohelp my own systoms have made it possible for me to help thousands ofpeople. ... Read more

Product Description
In clear language, free of medical jargon, with healthy doses of humor and many easy-to-understand examples, Dr. Henry D. Janowitz provides you with everything you need to know about indigestion, offering sound advice on how to avoid problems and soothing the fears of those in distress. He shows you how to prepare for a visit to the doctor--what the physician needs to know, what tests you might undergo, and what the latest diagnostic techniques are (including MRI and endoscopy). Dr. Janowitz then zeroes in on specific problems of the esophagus, stomach, gall bladder, liver, and pancreas. He outlines the causes of peptic ulcers and discusses the best methods of prevention and treatment, shows how to distinguish between chest pain originating in the esophagus and the anginal pain of heart disease, and surveys such problems as gallstones, pancreatic disorders, jaundice, malabsorption, maldigestion, and food allergies. He also examines the effects of aging on the upper digestive tract and, in a final chapter, illuminates the role of stress in functional indigestion.

A reliable guide to extremely common medical complaints, Indigestion is must reading for anyone suffering from heartburn, ulcers, gall bladder disease, or any number of common gastrointestinal ailments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very sound guide and advice for upper GI problems
In clear, jargon-free language, with healthy doses of humor and many easy-to-understand examples, the author of Your GutFeelings and Good Foods for Bad Stomachs, Dr. Janowitz offers everything you need to knowabout indigestion, providing soundadvice on how to avoid problems andsoothing the fears of those in distress. I found this book very helpful andwill be for anyonesuffering from any number of gastrointestinal ailments,from Crohn's to constipation to ulcers to GERD. A very good overall guidetoupper intestinal health.

Good Guide to Upper GI Health
In clear, jargon-free language, with healthy doses of humor and many easy-to-understand examples, the author of Your Gut Feelings and Good Foods for Bad Stomachs, Dr. Janowitz offers everything you need to know about indigestion, providing sound advice on how to avoid problems and soothing the fears of those in distress. I found this book very helpful and will be for anyone suffering from any number of gastrointestinal ailments, from Crohn's to constipation to ulcers to GERD. A very good overall guide to upper intestinal health ... Read more

Product Description
Relief at Last for the Millions of Chronic Heartburn Sufferers

Written by an internationally recognized expert on digestive diseases, this much-needed book brings relief to the tens of millions who suffer from the pain of severe heartburn almost daily. If you find yourself dependent on antacids, losing sleep, missing work, or canceling plans because of heartburn discomfort, you may be among those who struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disorder, or GERD. The good news is that your condition is treatable——especially in its early stages. Drawing from his extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients, as well as the latest research from around the globe, Dr. Anil Minocha explains the causes of heartburn——and the potentially serious consequences of leaving it untreated. In addition to providing an overview of the problem, Dr. Minocha offers invaluable information on:

• The latest treatment options–from nutrition and simple lifestyle changes to drugs, surgery, and alternative remedies
• How your diet and weight may be affecting your GERD
• The relationship between stress and heartburn
• Dealing with GERD during pregnancy, and in infants, children, and the elderly

"An in-depth analysis of how to heal heartburn and acid reflux, a problem that afflicts humans across the lifespan, from infancy to old age. . . . A valuable home reference."–Elizabeth D. Tate, F.N.P., M.N., coauthor of Unforgettable Faces: Through the Eyes of a Nurse Practitioner

"Priceless and practical. . . . Easy to read. . . . A must-buy book for all heartburn sufferers."–Joel E. Richter, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G., Chairman, Department of Gastroenterology, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

outdated
This book seems to be outdated (it mentions vioxx which has since been taken off the market). I also feel that some of the information may be incorrect (it states that H Pylori may decrease the symptoms of reflux).
I feel there are other better books on the market. I recommend 'No More Heartburn' by Sherry Rogers over this book.

Too basic to help me
This book is so basic that (at least to me) it was virtually useless. There was not one shred of new information. Anyone who has had heartburn for some time and has done any investigative work will get nothing new from this book. How about some innovative, new, or experimental heartburn management strategies?

Supplemental magnesium helped cure me; please see below
For decades I suffered from severe bouts of acid reflux and heartburn several times each week. A few years ago I began taking a daily supplement of 1,000 mg of chelated magnesium for another seemingly-unrelated ailment. To my pleasant surprise the supplemental magnesium not only cured the ailment for which I was taking it, it also completely stopped my episodes of acid reflux and heartburn. I have since learned that acid reflux is caused by stomach spasms which cause acid (which healthy stomachs are designed by nature to tolerate and utilize) to be ejected into the esophagus which is not designed to be exposed to stomach acid and burns when it is so exposed. Magnesium is a natural relaxant -- as well as a natural antacid -- and, therefore, it helps prevent the stomach spasms which are the root cause of acid reflux and accompanying heartburn. I am a research chemist, not a physician, so I cannot tell you to take chelated magnesium as I did. I can, however, report to you the beneficial effects which I experienced from daily supplementation with chelated magnesium. Those interested in learning of the many other benefits of magnesium -- including prevention and mitigation of heart arrhythmia, high blood pressure, asthma, osteoporosis, and diabetes -- should acquire and read Dr. Carolyn Dean's excellent book The Miracle of Magnesium.

Save your money & keyword heartburn on the web
This isn't a bad book, but you can get all the same information going on line and keywording GERD or heartburn.I am sceptical of the many anecdotal patients in the book, used entirely to support her topic of the moment.I felt spoken down to in the book.Still, if you MUST have a book about this topic, this one will give you all the basics, but don't expect any revolutionary new ideas to conquer this bothersome syndrome.

Best little book on heartburn
I have read this book three times and each time I have gotten benefit from it. It continue to be by my bedside. This says it all cos the other book is my bible !

The causes and relief of heartburn are explained better than any other book I've read. I am in the minority of patients with severe heartburn that needed a Nisan Operation. I wish my doctor had looked at this book it would have kept my doctor and hospital bills down. I give it my highest recommendation. ... Read more

Product Description
"You Mean I Don't Have to Take Medicine for That?"

If you're one of the millions plagued by such annoying, embarrassing
gastrointestinal conditions as heartburn, gas, bloating, stomach pain, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome, here's a proven program that spells relief -- without the need for expensive medicine.

Gary Gitnick, M.D., one of the country's most renowned gastroenterologists, offers the first comprehensive guide to help you discover which foods hurt and which foods heal; exercise GI distress away; cope with the stress that triggers discomfort; and more. Features include:
How to determine whether medication is really necessary
How to ferret out the dietary culprits causing you distress
How to create a personalized food guide pyramid
The vital connection between exercise and GI health

Complete with a resource section as well as Dr. Gitnick's ten rules to "get your gut out of that rut," Freedom From Digestive Distress will help you save money, put you in charge of your health and wellness, and put you on the road to a more confident, comfortable, and healthful future. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

information to help you solve your digestive problems
I found the book very helpful. I don't think there are easy answers to digestive problems because there are so many factors affecting each person at once. The author shows you how to keep a food journal (which my doctor has been telling me to do for years) which not only has columns for what you ate or drank, but also what else you were doing, who was with you, where you were and how you were feeling, because your digestive problems can be a combination of what you eat, how stressed out you are, how rushed you are, etc. I found a lot of useful information in the book, but it still comes down to the fact that you have to make the effort to find your personal digestive problems and solutions.

A decent self-help book
It is great to find a book by a practicing gastroenterologist who promotes a medicine-free healing plan! Gitnick's book reminds us all of the importance of a complete healing program, including exercise, stress reduction, positive attitude, eating those foods which don't bother us, and seeking support from others. The author discusses scenarios when it may be necessary to combine medicine with these success factors and how they can work together to promote healing. This book contains many case studies and patient anecdotes, and is written in a positive, uplifting way. The book may draw criticism in that is does not dictate specific solutions or provide explicit answers; instead, it gives the reader information and tools (like a suggested food journal) which the reader can use to answer their own questions.

It's Just a Lot of Hot Air!
Well intentioned but regrettably lacking in any real practical advise for those of us who suffer from this very dibilatating syndrome, "Freedom from Digestive Distress : Medicine-Free Relief from Heartburn, Gas, Bloating, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome" was a disappointing read. There is virtually no information on dealing with the embarrassing and often painful situations that are a part of our daily lives.I was looking for answers and got very few:What is the best approach for avoiding problems in a crowded movie theatre after a Mexican dinner?How does one excuse oneself from a staff meeting without arousing suspicions? What is the best way to avoid blame for unpleasant odors in an elevator or a car?How do I explain to my children that "Mommy's gas is involuntary"?How will they learn that passing wind at the dinner table is NOT a joke?These questions are left unanswered, and the reader is left feeling bloated. ... Read more

Product Description
An estimated 10 percent of the U.S. population suffers from Chronic Heartburn, also known as Acid Reflux or GERD. Many people simply dismiss this condition--the symptoms of which can include sleeplessness, chronic sore throat, heartburn, hoarseness, and dental problems--as something to learn to live with.Recent studies, however, have shown that GERD can have serious effects such as an increased risk for esophagitis, ulcers of the throat, and even cancer of the esophagaus, catapulting this condition into the media spotlight.

One of the first books to demystify this condition for the lay reader, Coping with chronic Heartburn offers help, relief, and advice to sufferers of GERD, including:

*When to consult a doctor
*Which tests you may have to undergo
*Effective self-care treatments such as dietary change and over the counter medications
*Promising alternative and herbal treatments
*Details on the latest prevention and treatment developments, including a new surgical procedure with a 96% success rate.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

If You Have Acid Reflux Then This Book Is A Must Read!
I picked up this book at the check out counter of a pharmacy store several years ago, and didn't read it until recently.It really is everything you need to know about acid reflux, its causes, side effects, how to manage the illness (treatment options include diet, medication and surgery), and the disease progression if left untreated.I was so inspired by this book that after I read it I went to Amazon.com and bought several copies as gifts for friends and family that also suffer from acid reflux.Since acid reflux eventually causes esophageal cancer, I would argue if you or someone you know has acid reflux, then get and read this book! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A one sided and incorrect assessment of this condition.
The author takes a very "medical" look at heartburn.What this pamphlet (at 96 pages, half of which are blank or almost blank, I cannot call this a book) preaches is the same nonsense that medical doctors havepreached to me for years, but there's just one problem: their four phase"treatment" process does not work very well in the long run, ifat all.The first part of the book explains (in incredibly simplistic tothe point of insult) terms what heartburn is, and what may cause it.Thisexplanation and treatment process are completely one sided, as the authornever for a second mentions that it may be the DEFICIT of stomach acid, notan increase, that may cause reflux and symptoms of heartburn. Unfortunately, medical doctors in this country swear by the process that isdescribed in this book, and this is likely why this country has the largestoccurrence of heartburn.Phase One is "lifestyle changes withoccasional liquid antacid use."Garbage.If the cause of heartburnis in the DEFICIT of stomach acid or digestive enzymes, taking antacidswill make the condition worse over time.Phase Two is "addition ofH-2 blockers and more liberal use of antacids."The nonsense pilesup.Phase Three is the "addition of stronger acid-blockingagents."You see the pattern.And finally Phase Four is surgerywhich promises symptom relief for "as long as five years."Whatexactly happens afterwards, the author does not say.He then proceeds tooutline costs of each phase of the process.It becomes clear that the onlyones benefiting from it are the MDs, drug companies, and pharmacies -- butnot the patients.The book is also full of useless little facts.Forinstance, did you know that in 1994, a 6 year old burped 844 consecutivetimes which set a new world record?Finally, while the author fails tomention any alternative treatment methods that have actually been shown towork, he does provide about a dozen recipes said to prevent or reducereflux.Let me close this review by saying that one of thosewonder-recipes contains 3 cups of marinara sauce.Here comes heartburnsalvation!NOT.

Everything you ever wanted to know about your heartburn
I began searching for educational materials on heartburn after I had lived with it for several years and had poured all kinds of antiacids into my stomach.This book is very informative, explaining the causes, treatments,and even the long-range effects of continuing heartburn.It educated me towhere I was able to discuss my condition knowledgeably with my physicianand had no "fear of the unknown" when it came time to begintreatment. ... Read more

Product Description
A complete guide to healing your digestive problems, once and for all—safely, inexpensively, naturally Good digestion is fundamental to good health, and even such common problems as chronic heartburn and gas can have harmful effects on virtually every cell in your body. Quick fixes such as over-the-counter and prescription medications don’t address the real causes of the problems: they only mask symptoms. Nature, on the other hand, offers a variety of gentle, readily available remedies that not only treat underlying digestive problems but also help to promote overall well-being. Learn about natural solutions and how to put them to work for you in Healthy Digestion the Natural Way. Dr. D. Lindsey Berkson clearly and simply explains the normal digestive processes and what can happen to interfere with them. Then, drawing upon her decades of research and clinical experience successfully treating thousands of sufferers of digestive problems—many of whom had exhausted all the standard medical solutions—she provides:

• Easy-to-follow programs for correcting digestive problems without drugs
• Specific treatments for gas, heartburn, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, gallbladder disease, food allergies, and more
• Natural remedies, including diet, exercise, mind-body and breathing techniques, and reflexology
• Guidelines on how to design a naturally healthy diet tailored to your unique physical makeup, problems, and tastes

Customer Reviews (23)

Disappointing
Has some information about stomach problems but impractical advice. The massage and hand techniques are all about touching your feet. The other information is about taking alot of herbs and just putting alot of stuff into your body. I was very disappointed in the book.

Easy to follow and good advice
Book is very easy to understand and follow.Has good suggestions on how to stop having disgestive problems and how to get your digestive system back on track.

Tons of great info. on digestion and health
I'm about half way through this book.
It is filled with lots and lots of information
on digestion and health, in general.
Many great ideas for how to change diet and
lifestyle to create better health, starting
in the gut.

Excellent resource, but questions remain
I thought the angels had answered my prayers when I saw this book at my local pharmacy. It is packed absolutely chock full with great, easy to understand information about digestion, the mind-gut connection, and various digestive diseases. I know "natural medicine" seems crunchy granola and therefore easy to dismiss, but logic (and many well-designed studies) make many of the recommendations in this book hard to refute, and definitely worth trying. As someone who has been to dozens of traditional doctors and has still not found relief for my gut, being given more information and options for treating these distressing problems is a godsend and not to be sneezed at. However, after reading it cover-to-cover, I still have questions.
My main issue: I have symptoms of several of the problems talked about in the book, and unfortunately the treatments for these problems are often contradictory. I really should eat more yogurt and other cultured products for the beneficial flora--unless I have candidiasis or a food allergy. I should eat whole grains for the fiber--unless I'm allergic or have candidiasis. I should drink water right before I go to bed--unless I have reflux. The list goes on and on. I have NO IDEA which of my stomach problems I should tackle first and which things I can try for one problem that won't significantly worsen another problem. I find I'm so confused that I really want to visit the clinic that Ms. Berkson talks about working at, but she gives no contact info in the book and I was unable to find anything online. Barring that, I would have really appreciated some information for how to FIND a clinic like that one, or a doctor who will work with me to find holistic and natural remedies.
Having said that, I still think this book is an excellent resource that is well-written, well-organized, and well worth reading.

Excellent health information
One of the most helpful, informative books I have read. The suggestions really work.Highly recommend as an aid in healing. ... Read more