I have been "on the diet" for almost three years and have had much success with it. After only 6 weeks on the diet GERD disappeared and so did many other ailments. Recently, however, GERD seems to be rearing its ugly head again. It is not as bad as it was and happens infrequently but, nevertheless, it happens. I have not re-introduced any "avoids" into my diet - in fact I have weaned myself away from white wine now and only drink the occasional glass of red. Would you have any suggestions as to what could be the reason for GERD to reappear? I hate the thought of having to go back on medication. Thanks - Sue

GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease) is a condition in which acidic stomach contents flowing up the esophagus from the stomach, usually resulting in the burning sensations of "heartburn." The effects on the esophagus can be very harsh, setting the stage for the development of even more serious health problems.

I. An ancient Chinese medicine treatment is often effective against GERD:

Use a juicer to extract a couple of teaspoons of juice from fresh ginger root. The quantity of root will vary -- just use enough to get that much, which is enough for one day.

Take 1/2 teaspoon on an empty stomach, in the morning and 1/2 hour before lunch and dinner. It is very potent stuff, and burns a bit going down. Don't worry, you'll probably even get to like the sensation in time! and it won't do you any harm.

After a week or so, up the dosage until you're taking a full teaspoon at a time. While it does not address the cause (most likely a combination of stored stresses and inappropriate diet) this simple home treatment alone has chased GERD away for good in many people. You don't have to make the juice every day, so once you've tried it for a day or two, you can juice up a few cups of it to store, covered in the fridge, for a month. It keeps just fine that way.

II. Do you have hiatus hernia? I did -- and my chiropractor was able to alleviate it by actually reaching in under my diaphragm and pulling the stomach down. This technique, too, does not address the causes of HH (large meals, lifelong stresses, poor and irritating grain-heavy diet), but it can remove the effects temporarily while your diet and stress-relief practices do the rest. HH is often present in people with GERD.

In brief, I'd suggest you start the ginger juice, discuss with your chiropractor the technique I mentioned above if HH is involved, and begin following a powerful stress-reduction practice of your choice.

I hope you're feeling better soon, and please keep in touch!