Do you frequently experience discomfort in the abdominal center, particularly in the plexus area?
This sensation can range from unusual cramps to painful hunger pangs.
Often, it strikes about two to three hours post-meal, and nighttime can be particularly troublesome.
Are you also grappling with anxiety and insomnia as a result of this discomfort?
These could be signs of a stomach ulcer.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore stomach ulcers, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and effective natural remedies to alleviate this persistent pain.
Contents
Discover effective natural remedies and dietary recommendations for stomach ulcers. Learn about symptoms, causes, and treatments for quick relief.
Stomach ulcers and their types
Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, manifest as pain in the lower esophageal wall, originating in different areas of the stomach or small intestine.
They come in three distinct types:
- Esophageal ulcer: Located in the esophagus.
- Gastric ulcer: Found in the stomach.
- Duodenal ulcer: Present in the small intestine, specifically the duodenum.
Stomach ulcers often develop due to the presence of acidic gastric juices, responsible for breaking down food.
To protect the stomach and duodenum walls from acid damage, a mucous layer lines them.
When this protective layer deteriorates, stomach acid can penetrate the walls, leading to the formation of an ulcer.
Common causes of gastric ulcers
The primary culprit behind most peptic ulcers is the Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) bacteria.
This bacterium is believed to enter the body through contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected individual.
Once inside, it lodges in the stomach or duodenum’s mucous layer, progressively damaging it.
The combination of bacteria and gastric acidity results in an ulcer.
Excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen can also contribute to ulcer development by reducing the stomach and duodenum’s protective capabilities.
Factors that increase stomach ulcer risk
Certain lifestyle parameters can lead to the development of an ulcer.
So it is for:
- smoking
- excessive alcohol consumption
- liver cirrhosis
- Crohn’s disease
Note that eating spicy foods does not cause ulcers but aggravates the experienced symptoms.
Symptoms of stomach ulcers
Signs of stomach ulcers are:
- abdominal pain and burning
- heartburn
- nausea
- intolerance to fatty foods
- bloating and flatulence
- bloody or black saddles
- an appetite modification
- unexplainable weight loss
- vomiting blood
Diagnosis of stomach ulcers
To diagnose stomach ulcers, a physician will conduct a physical examination, checking for bloating and abdominal pain.
Confirmatory tests may include:
- Endoscopy: A tube with a camera is inserted through the throat to inspect the stomach and small intestine.
- Barium transit: An X-ray using contrast material to precisely explore the digestive tract.
- Stool or blood test: To detect H. pylori infection.
Effective gastric ulcer treatments
Treatment for gastric ulcers typically depends on the underlying cause.
If H. pylori bacteria are involved, antibiotics may be prescribed for eradication.
For ulcers caused by anti-inflammatories, discontinuing or limiting their use is recommended.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are often prescribed to reduce stomach acid production in cases of gastric ulcers, while H2 antihistamines or H2 blockers may be used for peptic ulcers.
Additional medications like sucralfate, misoprostol, and bismuth salicylate can help protect the stomach and duodenal walls.
In cases where medication fails or complications arise, surgery may be necessary.
Surgical options include vagotomy, gastric antrectomy, and pyloroplasty, each tailored to address specific issues.
Dietary recommendations for stomach ulcer relief
You can begin to relieve your pain by eating certain foods that are very beneficial to counter stomach ulcers.
-
Blueberry
Consider adding a few blueberries for dessert each day.
Bilberry is rich in antioxidants, nutrients that boost the immune system and help the body fight off viruses and bacteria.
It is very suitable for relieving ulcer pain and accelerating its healing.
-
Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics that protect the intestines by destroying bad bacteria.
It thus ensures better digestion.
Many beneficial bacteria colonize the stomach and since yogurt also contains them, protection against infections is reinforced.
It holds, for example, a beneficial bacteria called BB12 which secretes a bactericidal protein that neutralizes bad bacteria while reducing their development.
-
Sweet Potato
This potato is rich in vitamin A and this nutrient treats stomach ulcers while ensuring its prevention.
It increases the production of gastrointestinal mucus, which is essential because an imbalance in its production leads to the formation of an ulcer.
All foods with a lot of vitamin A such as spinach, carrots, broccoli, green cabbage, or melon are very suitable.
Note that vitamin A is particularly effective against duodenal ulcers.
-
Almonds
Almonds are rich in B vitamins, protein, and calcium, nutrients that significantly reduce ulcer symptoms and help its healing.
Beans, whole grains, spinach, kale are also foods rich in B vitamins.
-
Cranberry
Cranberry can treat a stomach ulcer because it is rich in flavonoids which directly attack the development of the bacteria H. Pylori and aids wound healing.
Favor foods rich in flavonoids in your diet such as celery, onions, garlic, or green tea.
-
Fibers
All high fiber foods such as apple, pear, oatmeal are very beneficial in case of ulcers because they decrease the acidity level of the stomach while fighting against bloating and pain.
Researchers further note that a high-fiber diet helps prevent ulcers.
-
Honey
Honey is a miracle for the stomach.
With natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, it can destroy Helicobacter Pylori bacteria, soothe irritated mucous membranes of the esophagus and intestines and reduce pain.
-
Coconut
Coconut water contains electrolytes – calcium, potassium, magnesium – and other essential minerals for the body.
It also helps to destroy bad intestinal bacteria and is very effective for urinary problems.
Natural remedies and supplements for stomach ulcers
You can get some relief and a marked improvement in your condition by introducing a few natural remedies and supplements into your daily life.
-
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that provide necessary microorganisms to the digestive system.
They are found in certain foods, especially those that are fermented such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, kimchi.
They also exist as probiotics and prebiotics supplements (ad).
Research shows that probiotics are effective in eradicating Helicobacter pylori bacteria and the patient recovers more easily than with antibiotic treatment.
-
Deglycyrrhinized licorice
Yes, the name is unpronounceable but this whole licorice extract is invaluable in healing an ulcer.
It prevents the development of H. pylori bacteria and is easily found in supplement form (ad).
You will experience fast heartburn relief and long-term benefits but do not consume more than 50 grams per day.
Overconsumption of licorice causes high blood pressure and possible heart problems.
-
Honey
Honey is a very effective natural remedy for ulcers and heartburn.
Depending on the plants it is made from, it can contain up to 200 elements such as polyphenols and many antioxidants.
It is also a very powerful antibacterial that limits the development of H. Pylori bacteria.
If you don’t have a blood sugar problem, you can use it as a sweetener.
It will act at the same time to solve your stomach ulcer concern.
Note that in the treatment of this condition, manuka honey (ad) shows superior efficacy.
-
Cranberry
Well known for healing urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and kidneys, cranberry also shows some effectiveness to stop the development of H. Pylori bacteria.
If you want to introduce it into your natural ulcer treatment, you can of course consume them in juice but a cranberry supplement (ad) is much more effective.
-
Garlic
Garlic extract is particularly effective in fighting H. Pylori bacteria and treating ulcers.
If you don’t like its taste and smell, you can get an odorless garlic supplement (ad) to benefit from its virtues without its disadvantages.
Note that it is advisable to consult a physician before any supplementation due to its anticoagulant effects.
Healing duration and prevention
Stomach ulcers vary in healing time, and recurrences are common.
Individual responses to medication can differ significantly, making it challenging to predict recovery duration.
However, making dietary adjustments by including beneficial foods and supplements can aid in managing and preventing ulcer recurrences.
Being proactive in addressing your ulcer can save you both time and discomfort.
In conclusion, stomach ulcers can be effectively managed through a combination of medication, dietary choices, and natural remedies.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can take proactive steps to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
