LPR is predominantly treated with acid-lowering medication such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that reduce the production of acid by the stomach. If patients with a hiatus hernia (predisposes to GORD) surgical repair may be considered.

However, a paper recently published in JAMA Otolaryngology (October 2017) has suggested that a plant-based diet and consumption of alkaline water might be as effective as treatment with a PPI. The main outcome of the study was a change in Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) – the 1^st group were treated with PPI and standard anti-reflux precautions (PS) and the 2^nd group with alkaline water, a plant-based Mediterranean-style diet and standard anti-reflux precautions (AMS). Results from the study showed that the percentage of patients achieving a clinically meaningful reduction in RSI was 54% in PS-treated patients and 63% in AMS-treated patients. While there is still more work to be done, this study shows promising and intriguing results.

For more information about LPR or GORD please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Adam Harris