H. pylori or Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that causes infection in the stomach.This infection is usually characterized by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, belching, bloating, gastritis, and stomach pain.
The bacteria cause chronic inflammation that can disrupt the function of your digestive system and gastrointestinal tract and lead to chronic stomach distress.
It is estimated that Helicobacter pylori bacteria affect 66% of the world population. The case is even worse in the developing countries, where the H. pylori infection affects more than 80% of adults and 10% of children.
If the Helicobacter pylori bacteria thrive in your body, you are 6 times more likely to develop stomach cancer. It can also lead to serious digestive problems, such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.
When it comes to treating this infection, most people rely on the conventional treatments. However, in most cases, they will not eliminate the bacteria completely, affect the good bacteria and of course, the worst part is that you may experience side-effects.
So, try using natural ways to treat and prevent a Helicobacter pylori infection!
Natural ways to eliminate Helicobacter pylori bacteria
- Manuka honey
Honey is included in various natural remedies. It has potent antibacterial properties and has been used in the treatment of different health problems. The experts claim that using raw honey or manuka honey with standard treatments can shorten treatment time. To eliminate H. pylori bacteria, consume 1 tablespoon of manuka honey in the morning, before your breakfast. You can also prepare a toast with manuka honey and eat this as a breakfast.
- Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is one of the most effective natural remedies for any infection of the urinary or gastrointestinal tract. This is due to the high content of antibacterial compounds that the fruit has. This juice is known for its anti-adhesive effect on bacteria. It makes it difficult for them to colonize the stomach. It can also promote their elimination through normal excretion and urination.
- Probiotics
There are many beneficial bacteria that we need for digestion and gut health. So, a bacterial imbalance in the stomach can have a negative effect on your overall health. A Helicobacter pylori infection can upset the balance, thus leading to inflammation and chronic health risks. Probiotics can replace the lost bacteria in your gut. They can also reduce symptoms and prevent bacterial colonization.
- Black seed (Nigella sativa)
Black seed provide many health benefits. They are particularly effective against H. pylori infections. According to a 2010 study, people with H. pylori who consumed 2 grams of ground black seeds a day along with omeprazole (an acid blocker) experienced better results than people who had the conventional therapy.
- Green tea
It is scientifically shown that green tea can kill and slow the growth of Helicobacter bacteria. It has been shown that drinking green tea before an infection can prevent stomach inflammation while drinking the tea while you have the infection can reduce the severity of gastritis.
- Garlic
Garlic offers strong antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. To kill off H. pylori bacteria, you can eat it raw or cooked. According to a study, people with H. pylori who ate two-medium sized cloves of garlic with their lunch and dinner experienced a great reduction in H. pylori bacteria.
- Broccoli sprouts
Broccoli sprouts contain sulforaphane, a compound that is very effective against H. pylori. Lab studies showed that it can reduce gastric inflammation and lower bacteria colonization. Studies conducted on people with H. pylori and type 2 diabetes showed that broccoli sprout powder can fight the bacteria and improve the cardiovascular risk factors.
- Propolis
Propolis has more than 300 compounds in its content (coumarins, amino acids, phenolic compounds, polyphenols and plant sterols). Many studies confirmed the ability of propolis extract to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria. The effectiveness of propolis is due to its rich content of phenolic compounds.
Helicobacter pylori diet tips
Your diet should include:
- Flax seeds and chia seeds that are a great source of omega-3s
- Probiotic-rich foods like kefir
- Cruciferous vegetables, especially broccoli and broccoli sprouts
- Wild-caught fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Raw honey, especially manuka honey, in moderation used in green/black tea
- Berries, especially raspberry, strawberry, blackberry, blueberry, and bilberry
Try to stay away from:
- Pickled foods
- Spicy foods
- Carbonated beverages
- Low-fiber grains
- Caffeine
Source: Healthy Food Star