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Many people, especially over the age of 40, are prescribed antacid medications or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to treat their reflux. However, these medications only neutralize stomach acid, making the problem worse in the long run. By reducing stomach acid, they also prevent the absorption of essential nutrients and do not treat the cause of reflux, which is the weak valve.
Natural solution:
Work with your doctor to gradually reduce the use of these medications. Use apple cider vinegar as mentioned above, and consider taking 5 to 10 capsules of betaine hydrochloride before meals to improve digestion and strengthen the stomach valve.
3. Postnasal drip
Another common cause of excess mucus is postnasal drip, where mucus drains from the sinuses into the back of the throat. This could be due to a sinus infection caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or yeast. These microbes often form biofilms, a protective layer that makes them resistant to treatments and immune defenses. The result: a chronic sinus infection that persists, accompanied by coughing, a feeling of a lump in the throat or a constant urge to clear your throat.
Natural solution:
Use a neti pot with distilled water, sea salt and a few drops of grapefruit seed extract to rinse your sinuses. This remedy helps eliminate biofilms and fight infections.
4. Overuse of antibiotics.
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat infections, but they only target bacteria, leaving room for other microbes like fungus, yeast, and Candida to overgrow. This can lead to persistent congestion and a feeling of pressure in the sinuses.
Natural solution:
Opt for natural remedies like black elderberry, aged garlic, or oregano oil to treat infections, rather than antibiotics that upset the microbiota.
5. Grains and dairy
Since the 1990s, grains have been touted for their high fiber content. However, they can cause a lot of inflammation. For example, wheat contains high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids, which promote inflammation in the digestive system. In addition, grains contain antinutrients like phytic acid, which blocks mineral absorption, and are often grown with pesticides that disrupt the gut flora. Gluten, a protein found in grains, can cause autoimmune reactions that increase mucus production in the sinuses, throat, and intestines.
Natural solution:
Test your food sensitivity by eliminating grains, seed oils (like canola and corn), and fried foods from your diet for 2 weeks. See if your symptoms improve. It is also estimated that 70% of the world’s population has an intolerance to dairy products. If all else fails, try eliminating dairy products (milk, cheese, butter) from your diet.
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