Hiatal Hernia

Any time an internal body part pushes into an area where it doesn't belong, it's called a hernia.

The hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm -- the muscular wall separating the chest cavity from the abdomen. Normally, theesophagus (food pipe) goes through the hiatus and attaches to thestomach. In a hiatal hernia (also called hiatus hernia) the stomach bulges up into the chest through that opening.

There are two main types of hiatal hernias: sliding and paraesophageal (next to the esophagus).

In a sliding hiatal hernia, the stomach and the section of the esophagus that joins the stomach slide up into the chest through the hiatus. This is the more common type of hernia.

The paraesophageal hernia is less common, but is more cause for concern. The esophagus and stomach stay in their normal locations, but part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus, landing it next to the esophagus. Although you can have this type of hernia without any symptoms, the danger is that the stomach can become "strangled," or have its blood supply shut off.

Many people with hiatal hernia have no symptoms, but others may have heartburn related to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Although there appears to be a link, one condition does not seem to cause the other, because many people have a hiatal hernia without having GERD, and others have GERD without having a hiatal hernia.

People with heartburn may experience chest pain that can easily be confused with the pain of a heart attack. That's why it's so important to undergo testing and get properly diagnosed.

Digestive Myths: The Truth About Hernias, Lactose Intolerance, Ulcers, and More

What Causes a Hiatal Hernia?

Most of the time, the cause is not known. A person may be born with a larger hiatal opening. Increased pressure in the abdomen such as frompregnancy, obesity, coughing, or straining during bowel movementsmay also play a role.

Who Is at Risk for Hiatal Hernia?

Hiatal hernias occur more often in women, people who are overweight, and people older than 50.

How Is a Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?

A hiatal hernia can be diagnosed with a specialized X-ray (using abarium swallow) that allows a doctor to see the esophagus or withendoscopy.

How Are Hiatal Hernias Treated?

Most people do not experience any symptoms of their hiatal hernia so no treatment is necessary. However, the paraesophaeal hernia (when part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus) can sometimes cause the stomach to be strangled, so surgery is sometimes recommended. Other symptoms that may occur along with the hernia such as chest pain should be properly evaluated. Symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn, should be treated.

When Is Hiatal Hernia Surgery Necessary?

If the hiatal hernia is in danger of becoming constricted or strangulated (so that the blood supply is cut off), surgery may be needed to reduce the hernia, meaning put it back where it belongs.

Hiatal hernia surgery can often be performed as a laparoscopic, or "minimally invasive," procedure. During this type of surgery, a few small (5 to 10 millimeter) incisions are made in the abdomen. The laparoscope that allows the surgeon to see inside the abdomen and surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions. The surgeon is guided by the laparoscope, which transmits a picture of the internal organs to a monitor. The advantages of laparoscopic surgery include smaller incisions, less risk of infection, less pain and scarring, and a more rapid recovery.

Many patients are able to walk around the day after hernia surgery. Generally, there are no dietary restrictions and the patient can resume his or her regular activities within a week. Complete recovery will take two to three weeks, and hard labor and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least three months after surgery. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee, even with surgery, that the hernia will not return.

When Should I Call the Doctor About a Hiatal Hernia?

If you have been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia and you develop severe pain in the chest or abdomen, become nauseated, are vomiting, or are unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas, you may have a strangulated hernia or an obstruction, which are medical emergencies. Call your doctor immediately.

Heartburn/GERD Health Center

Natural Home Remedies for Heartburn

In this article

• Do Herbal Heartburn Remedies Work?
• Are There Any Other Natural Treatments for Heartburn?
• Can Drinking Milk Help My Heartburn?
• Is Chewing Gum an Effective Way to Get Heartburn Relief?
• Finding Heartburn Relief at Home

Heartburn is very common -- and very unpleasant. It's triggered whenstomach acid backs up into the esophagus. It can make you feel as though someone has lit a small bonfire in your chest, and it's burning its way up to your neck.

You're probably well aware that medications can help calm the burn, but natural heartburn remedies and lifestyle changes may be another way to get relief.

One commonly used "natural" heartburn remedy is calcium. It's also the active ingredient in many over-the-counter antacids.

If you find yourself popping antacids like candy and you're having heartburn more than a couple of times a week, or if you are using antacids for longer than two weeks, it's time to see the doctor. You may have a condition called GERD -- gastroesophageal reflux disease. Frequent heartburn can lead to long-term problems. It can cause inflammation and strictures in your esophagus. In rare cases, it may even lead to cancer. But stopping the acid reflux can help prevent complications in the future.

Here is a rundown of some other commonly used home remedies for heartburn, and the evidence for their effectiveness.

Do Herbal Heartburn Remedies Work?

There isn't much research into herbal remedies for heartburn. Most of the research has centered on a product called Iberogast. It is made with 9 different herbs, including:

• Angelica
• Caraway
• Clown's mustard plant
• German chamomile
• Greater celandine
• Lemon balm
• Licorice
• Milk thistle
• Peppermint

Some studies have shown that Iberogast may reduce heartburn, stomach pain, cramping, and nausea. It's not clear, however, which herb in the mix relieves symptoms. Plus, peppermint oil can actually worsen heartburn, so it's not a good idea to take it if you have GERD.

Are There Any Other Natural Treatments for Heartburn?

Melatonin, a supplement used to aid sleep, has been suggested to help relieve heartburn. But the research is conflicting as to whether it is effective for this or any other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Before you decide to take any herbal remedy or supplement, check with your doctor. Some supplements can have side effects or can interact with medications you're already taking.

Natural Home Remedies for Heartburn

In this article

• Do Herbal Heartburn Remedies Work?
• Are There Any Other Natural Treatments for Heartburn?
• Can Drinking Milk Help My Heartburn?
• Is Chewing Gum an Effective Way to Get Heartburn Relief?
• Finding Heartburn Relief at Home

Can Drinking Milk Help My Heartburn?

You may have heard that drinking a glass of milk can relieve heartburn. While it's true that milk can temporarily buffer stomach acid,nutrients in milk, particularly fat, will stimulate the stomach to produce more acid.

Even though milk might not be a great heartburn remedy, however, it's a rich source of bone-buildingcalcium. Try fat-free skim milk and don't overdo it. Drink no more than 8 ounces of skim milk at a time -- as a snack in between meals. Overfilling the stomach may increase heartburn.

Is Chewing Gum an Effective Way to Get Heartburn Relief?

It may sound strange, but gum stimulates the production of saliva, which is an acid buffer. Plus, chewing gum makes you swallow more often, which pushes those nasty acids back out of your esophagus. When you pick a pack of gum, just make sure it's sugar-free so you also protect your teeth.

Finding Heartburn Relief at Home

A few simple strategies can help soothe the burn of heartburn:

• Watch what you eat. Avoid specific foods that trigger your heartburn, but also watch out for peppermint, caffeine, sodas,chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, onions, and high-fat foods. Eat more fiber to keep your digestive tract moving and healthy. Also, reduce your portion sizes. Try eating five or six small meals a day, rather than three big ones. Eating too much at once is a big heartburn trigger.
• Watch when you eat. Push away the plate at least two or three hours before bedtime so your stomach has a chance to empty before you lie down.
• Watch how you eat. Eat slowly, taking smaller bites.
• Lose weight. Excess abdominal fat can press against the stomach, forcing acids up into the esophagus. Follow a diet and exerciseprogram to shed extra pounds.
• Keep a diary. Write down what you've eaten and when yourheartburn symptoms occur so you can pinpoint which foods are your triggers and avoid them.
• Toss the cigarettes. Smoking can reduce the effectiveness of the muscle that keeps acids in the stomach. For this, and so many other health reasons, it's always the perfect time to quit.
• Loosen your belt. Ditch the skin-tight jeans. Tight clothes put added pressure on the abdomen.
• Tilt up. Put wood blocks under your bed to raise the head about 6 inches. Don't bother raising your pillows, though -- it's not effective for heartburn.

Super Foods for Optimal Health

Do your immune system a favor, and pack some more fruits and vegetables on your plate.

They're loaded with nutrients, called antioxidants, that are good for you.

Add more fruits and vegetables of any kind to your diet. It'll help your health. Some foods are higher in antioxidants than others, though.

The three major antioxidant vitamins are beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You’ll find them in colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those with purple, blue, red, orange, and yellow hues.

Beta-carotene and other carotenoids: apricots, asparagus, beets, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, green peppers, kale, mangoes, turnip and collard greens, nectarines, peaches, pink grapefruit, pumpkin, squash, spinach, sweet potato, tangerines, tomatoes, and watermelon

Vitamin C: berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, cauliflower, grapefruit, honeydew, kale, kiwi, mango, nectarine, orange, papaya, snow peas, sweet potato, strawberries, tomatoes, and red, green, or yellow peppers

Vitamin E: broccoli, carrots, chard, mustard and turnip greens, mangoes, nuts, papaya, pumpkin, red peppers, spinach, and sunflower seeds

These foods are also rich in antioxidants:

• Prunes
• Apples
• Raisins
• Plums
• Red grapes
• Alfalfa sprouts
• Onions
• Eggplant
• Beans

Other antioxidants that can help keep you healthy include:

Zinc: oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, seafood, whole grains, fortified cereals, and dairy products

Selenium : Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, poultry, fortified breads, and other grain products

Cooking tip: To get the biggest benefits of antioxidants, eat these foods raw or lightly steamed. Don’t overcook or boil them.

Slideshow: 15 Immune-Boosting Foods

Foods or Supplements?

Foods have many different nutrients in them, and they work together.Supplements don't have that same mix.

If you can’t get enough antioxidants in your diet, some experts recommend taking a multivitamin that includes minerals, too.

But chances are, you can get what you need from your diet. If you want to check that you're on track, ask your doctor or a dietitian.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Health

By Joy Manning, Reviewed by Elaine Magee, MPH, RD on October 1/, 014

You probably have a bottle of apple cider vinegar in your pantry right now. It’s a tasty addition to homemade pickles, marinades, and salad dressing, but is it also good for you?

As a folk remedy, apple cider vinegar has been credited with curing everything from theflu to warts. Many of its supposed benefits are unproven, but some experts think that adding a little of this sour liquid to your life may have some health benefits.

Best and Worst Meals for Diabetes-Savvy Dining

Don't drink apple cider vinegar straight. It's so acidic that it could harm your tooth enamel and esophagus.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss

Have you heard that apple cider vinegar will help you lose weight?

The only study to test the idea in people was done in Japan. In the study, 175 obese but healthy people took either vinegar or water daily for 12 weeks. Their diets were similar. They kept food journals. At the end of the study, those who used vinegar had lost slightly more weight. On average, the vinegar group lost 1-2 pounds over the 3-month period. They gained it all back after the study was over.

The researchers suggest that vinegar may turn on certain genes involved in breaking down fats.

The effect is probably very subtle, says Chicago dietitian Debbie Davis, RD. “It may have some benefits in terms of weight loss and weight management, but it is definitely not a quick fix."

If you want to lose weight, you’ll still need to exercise and practice portion control.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Blood Sugar

While apple cider vinegar probably won’t make you skinny, it does appear to help withdiabetes and blood sugar control.

Carol Johnston, PhD, directs Arizona State University’s nutrition program. She has been studying apple cider vinegar for more than 10 years and believes its effects on blood sugar are similar to certain medications.

“Apple cider vinegar’s anti-glycemic effect is very well documented,” Johnston says.

She explains that the vinegar blocks some of the digestion of starch. “It doesn’t block the starch 100%, but it definitely prevents at least some of that starch from being digested and raising your blood sugar,” Johnston says.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Blood Sugar continued...

Not every expert feels as confident about apple cider vinegar’s power.

"Trying to use vinegar to treat diabetes is like trying to bail out a flooded basement with a teaspoon," says Michael Dansinger, MD, director of Tufts University’s diabetes lifestyle coaching program.

He advises patients to focus instead on their overall diets -- a strategy backed by a lot more research, he says.

If you have gastroparesis, a common problem with diabetes that slows stomachemptying, be careful. Early research shows apple cider vinegar may make this problem worse.

"I’m concerned that drinking vinegar, even diluted in water, increases acid in your system, which puts a strain on your kidneys and bones,” Dansinger says.

If you have diabetes and want to try apple cider vinegar, let your doctor know, and keep an eye on your blood sugar levels.

Johnston stresses that if you are on medication for diabetes, you shouldn’t stop taking it and substitute vinegar. If you're thinking about using it to help manage your blood sugar, talk to your doctor first.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Digestion

If you drink apple cider vinegar with a starchy meal, then the starches you don't digest will feed the good bacteria in your gut, Johnston says.

Davis recommends using unfiltered apple cider vinegar, “the cloudy kind, where you can see a blob in the bottle.”

That blob is known as “the mother,” and it’s full of probiotics and other beneficial bacteria. “This kind of vinegar can support immune function and, for some people, even help with constipation,” Davis says.

Tips on Taking Apple Cider Vinegar

Don't drink it straight. It’s so acidic that it could harm your tooth enamel and youresophagus.

Don't use a lot. “Dilute 1 to 2 tablespoons in a big glass of water, and sip it along with your meals one or two times a day,” Johnston says.

Better Brain Power With Rosemary Essential Oil

By Cathy Wong

With its sharp, woody aroma, rosemary essential oil has long been used in aromatherapy to improve mood and promote relaxation. Preliminary research shows that the essential oil may not only ease stress and enhance mood, but also help boost brain function.

In a 2003 study from the International Journal of Neuroscience, for instance, scientists discovered that volunteers exposed to the odor of rosemary essential oil while taking a test experienced an improvement in cognitive performance. In addition, a small study published inPsychogeriatrics in 2009 determined that aromatherapy using a combination of rosemary,lemon, lavender, and orange essential oils helped enhance cognitive function in older adults.

For more help in preserving your brain health, consider increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids (a type of essential fatty acids shown to improve brain function). Read the story:Rosemary Essential Oil - What You Need to Know.

Can Alpha-Ketoglutaric Enhance Athletic Performance?

By Cathy Wong


Found naturally in the human body, alpha-ketoglutaric acid plays a crucial role in certain chemical reactions involved in producing energy. Also available in dietary supplement form, alpha-ketoglutaric acid is often touted as a natural remedy for improving athletic performance.

Proponents claim that alpha-ketoglutaric acid can benefit athletes by increasing energy and endurance, as well as by promoting the body's production of protein and regulating blood sugar levels during exercise. But while alpha-ketoglutaric acid supplements are often marketed for their performance-boosting effects, evidence is needed to support the claim that these supplements can build endurance.

A number of other natural remedies may be of some benefit to athletes. For example, some studies show that branched-chain amino acids may fight fatigue during long periods of exercise, while phosphatidylserine supplements may improve exercise capacity and decrease muscle soreness.

Continue Reading: Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid - What You Need to Know.

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is a substance found naturally in the human body. Also available in dietary supplement form, alpha-ketoglutaric acid plays a key role in the Krebs cycle (a series of chemical reactions involved in the body's production of energy). Alpha-ketoglutaric acid supplements are purported to offer a variety of health benefits.

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid also occurs in salt form, as a substance called alpha-ketoglutarate. Alpha-ketoglutarate is involved in the formation of glutamine, an amino acid required for protein synthesis and for proper functioning of the immune system.

Uses for Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is often said to enhance athletic performance. Proponents claim that use of alpha-ketoglutaric acid can help stimulate the body's production of protein, stabilize blood sugar levels during exercise, and improve exercise endurance.

In addition, alpha-ketoglutaric acid is said to help treat or prevent the following health problems:

• bacterial infections
• cataracts
• kidney disease
• yeast infections

Benefits of Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid

Although research on the health effects of alpha-ketoglutaric acid is very limited, some preliminary research suggests that alpha-ketoglutarate may offer certain health benefits. Here's a look at several key findings from the available studies:

1) Hemodialysis

Alpha-ketoglutarate may be of some benefit to people undergoing hemodialysis. In a study published in the journal Nephron in 1996, researchers found that administering a combination of alpha-ketoglutarate and calcium carbonate to hemodialysis patients helped boost amino acid metabolism and decrease hyperphosphatemia (a condition marked by abnormally elevated levels of phosphate in the blood).

2) Cardiac Surgery

Alpha-ketoglutarate may help improve kidney function among patients undergoing cardiac surgery, according to a 1998 study from the Annals of Thoracic Surgery. The study involved 22 people with normal kidney function prior to undergoing cardiac surgery. Of those patients, 11 people received an intravenous infusion of alpha-ketoglutarate an hour after their surgery. Study results suggest that alpha-ketoglutarate may enhance blood flow in the kidneys.

Is Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid Safe?

Due to a lack of research, little is known about the safety of long-term use of supplements containing alpha-ketoglutaric acid. However, there's some concern that consumption of alpha-ketoglutaric acid may irritate the esophagus and/or upset the stomach.

It's important to note that self-treating a health condition with alpha-ketoglutaric acid and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. If you're considering the use of alpha-ketoglutaric acid in treatment of any condition, make sure to consult your physician.

Alternatives to Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid

A number of other natural remedies may be of some use in improving athletic performance. For instance, some research indicates that branched-chain amino acids may help improve physical performance and prevent fatigue during long periods of exercise.

In addition, phosphatidylserine supplements have been found to boost exercise capacity, as well as decrease muscle soreness and protect against the increase in levels of cortisol (a hormone released during stress) that often results from overtraining.

There's also some evidence that creatine may boost performance in high-intensity, short-duration activities (such as weight-lifting and sprinting).

Where To Find Alpha-Ketoglutaric Acid

Available for purchase online, alpha-ketoglutaric acid is sold in many natural-foods stores, drugstores, and stores specializing in dietary supplements.

_Sources

_{Jeppsson A, Ekroth R, Friberg P, Kirnö K, Milocco I, Nilsson FN, Svensson S, Wernerman J. "Renal effects of alpha-ketoglutarate early after coronary operations." Ann Thorac Surg. 1998 Mar;65(3):684-90.}

_{Riedel E, Nündel M, Hampl H. "Alpha-Ketoglutarate application in hemodialysis patients improves amino acid metabolism." Nephron. 1996;74(2):261-5.}

Aromatherapy for Insomnia

By Cathy Wong


One of the most popular types of essential oils, sandalwood essential oil has long been treasured for its calming effects. In addition to lessening stress and easing anxiety, aromatherapeutic use of sandalwood essential oil shows promise as a natural treatment for insomnia.

Research on the sleep-promoting effects of sandalwood essential oil includes a preliminary study published in the Japanese Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2007. In tests on rats, scientists discovered that santalol (a major component of sandalwood essential oil) offers sedative effects that may be of some benefit to individuals with sleep-maintenance insomnia (a condition marked by difficulty in staying asleep).

For more help in getting a good night's sleep, consider using natural remedies like valerian and chamomile or practicing relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.

Continue reading: Sandalwood Essential Oil - What You Need to Know.

Sandalwood essential oil is a type of essential oil commonly used in aromatherapy. Sourced from the wood of trees in the genus Santalum, sandalwood essential oil contains aromatic compounds thought to offer a variety of health benefits.

Sandalwood essential oil is also used as an ingredient in perfume. In addition, sandalwood essential oil is frequently incorporated into religious ceremonies or practices in certain spiritual traditions. For example, Buddhists sometimes use the scent of sandalwood to maintain alertness during meditation.

How Does Sandalwood Essential Oil Work?

In aromatherapy, inhaling the aroma of sandalwood essential oil (or absorbing sandalwood essential oil through the skin) is thought to transmit messages to a brain region involved in controlling emotions. Known as the limbic system, this brain region also influences the nervous system. Aromatherapy proponents suggest that essential oils may affect a number of biological factors, including heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, breathing, and immune function.

Uses for Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood essential oil is often touted as a natural remedy for the following health problems or conditions:

• anxiety
• coughs
• diarrhea
• indigestion
• insomnia
• nausea
• sore throat

Additionally, sandalwood essential oil is said to enhance libido, improve mood, and relievestress.

Benefits of Sandalwood Essential Oil

Although research on the health effects of sandalwood essential oil is fairly limited, there's some evidence that sandalwood essential oil may offer certain benefits. Here's a look at some key findings on the aromatherapeutic use of sandalwood essential oil:

1) Anxiety

Several preliminary studies suggest that sandalwood essential oil may help alleviate anxiety. In a pilot study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice in 2006, for instance, researchers found that receiving aromatherapy massage enhanced with sandalwood essential oil helped reduce anxiety in patients undergoing palliative care.

In addition, a 2009 study from Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that aromatherapy massage involving the use of sandalwood essential oil helped lessen anxiety among women with breast cancer. The study included 12 breast cancer patients, each of whom received a half-hour aromatherapy massage twice a week for four weeks.

It should be noted that the aromatherapy massage in the above study also included sweetorange essential oil and lavender essential oil, and that it's unknown whether the treatment's anxiety-reducing effects resulted from the aromatherapy, the massage, or the combination of the two therapies.

2) Insomnia

Sandalwood essential oil shows promise as a means of promoting healthier sleep, according to a preliminary study published in the Japanese Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2007. In tests on rats, the study's authors determined that santalol (a major component of sandalwood essential oil) offers sedative effects that may be of some benefit to individuals with sleep-maintenance insomnia (a condition marked by difficulty in staying asleep).

How to Use Sandalwood Essential Oil

When combined with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado), sandalwood essential oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to baths.

Sandalwood essential oil also can be inhaled after sprinkling a few drops of the oil onto a cloth or tissue, or by using an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer.

Safety

Sandalwood essential oil should not be taken internally without the supervision of a health professional. Internal use of sandalwood essential oil may have toxic effects.

In addition, some individuals may experience irritation when applying sandalwood essential oil to the skin. A skin patch test should be done before using any new essential oil.

It's also important to note that self-treating a chronic condition with sandalwood essential oil and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.

Pregnant women and children should consult their primary health care providers prior to using essential oils.

Learn more about how to use sandalwood essential oil safely.

Where To Find Sandalwood Essential Oil

Here are some tips on purchasing essential oils.

Widely available for purchase online, sandalwood essential oil is sold in many natural-foods stores and in stores specializing in self-care products.

_Sources

_{Imanishi J, Kuriyama H, Shigemori I, Watanabe S, Aihara Y, Kita M, Sawai K, Nakajima H, Yoshida N, Kunisawa M, Kawase M, Fukui K. "Anxiolytic effect of aromatherapy massage in patients with breast cancer." Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2009 Mar;6(1):123-8.}

_{Kyle G. "Evaluating the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing levels of anxiety in palliative care patients: results of a pilot study." Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2006 May;12(2):148-55.}

_{Ohmori A, Shinomiya K, Utsu Y, Tokunaga S, Hasegawa Y, Kamei C. "Effect of santalol on the sleep-wake cycle in sleep-disturbed rats." Nihon Shinkei Seishin Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2007 Aug;27(4):167-71.}