A burning pain in the abdomen, nausea, loss of appetite, frequent burping, bloating and/or unintentional weight loss.. Could it be H. pylori?

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the lining of the stomach. It’s a very common infection, estimated to affect about two-thirds of the world’s population. Unlike most bacteria, H. pylori can survive in the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach. It does this by producing an enzyme called urease, which converts urea to ammonia, neutralising the acid around it. H. pylori can damage the protective mucus lining of the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). This damage makes the lining more susceptible to stomach acid, which can lead to ulcers.

Health issues associated with H. pylori included peptic ulcers as H. pylori is a major cause of peptic ulcers, which are painful sores in the stomach lining or duodenum. Gastritis is another possible symptom of H. pylori. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. In rare cases H. Pylori can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Symptoms of H. pylori infection include burning pain in the abdomen, nausea, loss of appetite, frequent burping, bloating, unintentional weight loss. 

  1. Pylori is transmitted through contaminated food or water or direct contact with saliva or vomit. 

It can be diagnosed through various tests, including:

Breath test – This test detects carbon dioxide produced by H. pylori.

Stool test – This test looks for H. pylori in stool samples.

Blood test – This test detects antibodies to H. pylori in the blood.

Endoscopy with biopsy – This involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the stomach to take a tissue sample for testing.

Treatment 

  1. pylori infection is typically treated with a combination of:
  • Antibiotics that kill the bacteria
  • Natural herbs and remedies  

Natural approaches that have been studied

Mastic Gum This resin from the mastic tree has shown antibacterial activity against H. pylori in several studies. It may help inhibit the growth of the bacteria and reduce inflammation in the stomach lining.  

Broccoli Sprouts Contain sulforaphane, a compound that has demonstrated antibacterial effects against H. pylori in some studies. Some research suggests that consuming broccoli sprouts may help reduce H. pylori colonization in the stomach.  

Green Tea Contains catechins, which are antioxidants that have shown some activity against H. pylori in laboratory studies. May help reduce inflammation in the stomach.  

Garlic Garlic has known antimicrobial properties, and some studies suggest it may have activity against H. pylori.

Honey (especially Manuka honey) Honey has antibacterial properties, and some types, like Manuka honey, have shown activity against H. pylori in laboratory studies. 

Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil contains polyphenols that may inhibit the growth of H. pylori.  

Licorice Root Some studies suggest that licorice root may help inhibit the growth of H. pylori and may also have some ulcer-healing properties.

I also like to use probiotics to help to remove H Pylori

Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly Lactobacillus reuteri) is a type of probiotic bacteria that is naturally found in the human gut. It has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its possible role in managing H. pylori infections.  

Here’s what research suggests about L. reuteri and H. pylori:

Mechanisms of Action

Antimicrobial Substances L. reuteri produces antimicrobial substances, such as reuterin, which can inhibit the growth of H. pylori.  

Competition for Binding Sites L. reuteri may compete with H. pylori for binding sites in the stomach lining, reducing the bacteria’s ability to colonize and cause damage.  

Immune Modulation L. reuteri may help modulate the immune response in the stomach, potentially reducing inflammation associated with H. pylori infection.  

Research Findings:

Reduced H. pylori Load Some studies have shown that L. reuteri supplementation can help reduce the amount of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach.  

Improved Eradication Rates When used in conjunction with standard antibiotic treatment for H. pylori, L. reuteri may help improve eradication rates.  

Reduced Side Effects of Antibiotic Treatment L. reuteri may help reduce some of the side effects associated with antibiotic treatment for H. pylori, such as diarrhea.  

Symptom Relief L. reuteri may help alleviate some of the digestive symptoms associated with H. pylori infection, such as bloating and abdominal discomfort.  

Important Considerations:

  • Not a Standalone Treatment: L. reuteri is not a replacement for standard antibiotic treatment for H. pylori. It’s best used as a complementary approach.
  • Strain Specificity: Different strains of L. reuteri may have different effects. Some strains have shown more promise in H. pylori management than others.  
  • Dosage and Duration: The optimal dosage and duration of L. reuteri supplementation for H. pylori management are still being studied.

Consult Your Doctor: It’s essential to talk to your doctor before using L. reuteri or any other supplement or probiotic for H. pylori. They can advise you on the best course of treatment and ensure that there are no interactions with any medications you are taking.