H. pylori or Helicobacter pylori is a common ailment found in almost half the world’s population. A bacterium found in the stomach, they do not usually cause major problems. However, there does exist a risk factor for H. Pylori patients to develop digestive problems, ulcers, and rarely stomach cancer. It is spread mostly by the consumption of food and water that is contaminated with faecal matter and the bacteria that invades the stomach injures the tissues that line the stomach causing a release of toxins and enzymes which may in turn affect the cells of the stomach or duodenum. The release of stomach acid here causes gastritis or duodenitis, which is a chronic inflammation of the stomach walls.
The ulcers caused by this condition are symptomised by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, bloating of the stomach, loss of appetite, feeling full after eating very little, nausea, vomiting, dark colored faeces, and low blood count and fatigue if the ulcers are bleeding. The best way to curb it is to avoid, smoking, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and any other food item that you think might be aggravating the condition. Make sure you wash your hands with clean water and an anti-bacterial soap after going to the toilet and before consuming food. Since it is contagious and can spread through saliva, sharing utensils and drinking glasses should be avoided. Do not consume food cooked in unhygienic conditions and avoid heavy meals with a high fat content and spices such as peppers, hot peppers and chillies. All fruits and vegetables ought to be washed thoroughly before eating them. You can soak them in water that has a handful of salt and some vinegar added to it to prevent any infection. An elimination diet will work well if you are not sure of which food item is causing the disease. You may eliminate the food you think is the cause, for 2-3 weeks and slowly bring them back to your diet one by one to identify the cause. Small and frequent meals are advisable as they keep the digestive tract active and healthy. As to diet, 3-4 bananas a day will help in curing the ulcers. A glass of almond milk will also prove beneficial. Your water should be boiled thoroughly before drinking and you may also consume 2-3 ounces of broccoli per day to cure the ailment. Drinking coconut water throughout the day and consuming garlic and onions will fight bacterial and other infections.