Gastro-esophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, is a huge problem in industrialized countries; studies suggest that 10 percent to 20 percent of people in the Western world experience symptoms of reflux at least once a week.

GERD occurs when acid from the stomach washes up and inflames the esophagus; symptoms may include heartburn, belching, indigestion, nausea, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, cough, wheezing and chest pain.

Prescription medications used to treat GERD , including medications like Prilosec and Zantac, are some of the world’s biggest-selling drugs. They often provide great relief, but they also are associated with side effects, especially when used chronically.

One potential alternative therapy for some of these disorders is melatonin, a hormone produced in the pineal gland in the brain and the intestines.

In a study of people with moderate to severe heartburn, 351 patients were either given 20 milligrams of Prilosec each evening or a “cocktail” of 6 milligrams of melatonin plus other supplements. Within seven days, all the patients getting the melatonin mixture reported some improvement; after 40 days, all the melatonin subjects reported almost complete resolution of symptoms. Only 66 percent of the patients getting Prilosec reported complete relief.

Side effects of melatonin may include headache, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. Because it may stimulate the immune system, it is not recommended for people with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. It should also be avoided in pregnant or nursing women. Long-term safety data is not available, so you have to use it at your own risk.

Before you head for the medicine counter, either prescription or supplement, we suggest that you look at your lifestyle. Certain habits can aggravate abdominal discomfort, including our tendency to indulge in large, high-fat meals, refined carbohydrates, caffeine, and alcohol.