L-glutamine supplementation has shown promising results when used for Crohn’s symptom management, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and ulcerative colitis. (and if you have ever heard of something called ‘leaky gut’, glutamine is an excellent gut nutrient to help rebuild and repair)
Naturally, this made me wonder about esophageal inflammation, as a result of acid reflux, or GERD. Acid reflux affects 2 out of every 10 people in the US, and the prescriptions drugs to combat the problem are big business. The drugs can also have moderate to severe side effects.
Can glutamine help?
Opinions are mixed as to whether or not it helps. One thing seems certain though: it’s probably not going to hurt anything to give it a try.
Dr. Peter H. Gott has this to say on the subject:
Q: DEAR DR. GOTT: I have had inflamed esophagus most likely due to acid reflux that I have had on occasion. I recently went to my doctor and he put me on Protonix. I mentioned to him that I had read on the internet that L-glutamine is good for helping heal an inflamed esophagus.
A: “Glutamine has been found to aid wound healing, protect the gastrointestinal lining (mucosa) and help in the recovery of illness. It can reduce the rate of death in trauma and critically ill patients. It also reduces infections, particularly those associated with surgery…Get the full story here
