Hernia

Hiatal hernia is a problem where the stomach pushes, or herniates, upward through an opening in the diaphragm into the thorax. Normally the result of a congenital abnormality or trauma, this condition is associated with gastro-esophageal reflux, in which the muscle that encircles the juncture of the stomach and the esophagus fails to keep food and acid from coming back up from the stomach into the esophagus as it should. If that happens, the tissues in the esophagus become irritated, causing heartburn and may even cause the coughing up of bloody mucus.

The common symptoms of hiatal hernia include: belching, burping, and heartburn. If stomach acid comes up into the throat, it can cause a burning type sensation and pain behind the breastbone area. It is estimated over 50% of people that over 40 years of age have hiatal hernias. Many of these people do not know they even have this problem. Smaller hernias do not normally cause any real problems. It is the larger hernias that are most often responsible for reflux problems. Ulcers will often occur with a hiatal hernia. The acid problems may cause ulceration in the esophagus. Ulcers can also occur in the duodenum (small intestine upper area) and the stomach. Stress maybe a factor with hernias as it maybe with ulcers.

Nutrient / Supplement	Helpful notes
Multi-vitamin & Mineral supplement	contains vitamin E, vitamin B , vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and zinc which are all helpful in both the treatment and prevention of hernias. A good daily supplement is also needed for general good health and well being.
Zinc	this mineral is needed for healing and repair of body tissue
Aloe Vera	herb that promotes healing of the intestinal lining and is also very helpful for stress and aids in sleep problems. Often found in an herbal blend Kava kava and Chamomile.
vitamin A	help in prevention of too much acid and helps the immune system
B vitamins	all B vitamins are needed for health and good functioning of the liver and nervous system. They are known as anti-stress vitamins.
vitamin E	strong anti-oxidant that also helps with healing in the body
Essential Fatty acids	combats inflammation of the liver and helps to lower serum fat levels, fish oil, flax seed and borage seed are good sources.
Calcium	calcium is lost when stress occurs, thus a good supplement with calcium, herbs, and magnesium may be helpful with hernia.
Magnesium	this mineral works with calcium to relieve stress related problems