Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

The best evidence for CM for the management of GORD is lifestyle modification, in particular, elevation of the head of the bed and weight loss Vitamin C deficiency can occur in those who avoid acidic fruits and vegetables and vitamin B12 deficiency in those taking acid-suppression medications Herbatists and/or naturopaths use slippery elm, marshmallow and liquorice. All have good anecdotal evidence but little supportive ctinicat data. Care needs to be taken to avoid interactions with other medications [see 'Drug-CM Interactions Part 1', p 84] While it is accepted that psychological factors can make GORD symptoms worse, there are insufficient data to universally recommend mind-body therapies.