Updated: 9/27/23
Are you trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, but are being plagued by stomach pains? If so, it could be an indication of an H. pylori infection – don’t ignore the signs! There are many simple steps you can take to diagnose and treat H. pylori infections, so don’t let the pain get in the way of your health routine any longer. Read on for further information regarding symptoms and treatments available so that you can remain healthy and active without any abdominal discomfort!
What is H. Pylori Infection?
H. pylori stands for Helicobacter pylori — spiral-shaped bacteria that colonizes the stomachs of humans and can cause gastrointestinal problems. It’s estimated that between 50 and 80 percent of the world’s population is infected with H. pylori. In the United States, the rates of infection are between 30-40 percent. Despite its prevalence, this bacterium was only identified in 1982. Since then, however, researchers have been able to better understand how it spreads and how to treat it.
Crowded living areas and poor sanitation create conditions in which this bacteria typically spreads. While the stomach is the main reservoir for H. pylori, saliva, dental plaque, vomit and feces can also contain it. Coming into contact with these bodily fluids through person-to-person contact or ingesting it through contaminated water or food are believed to be the main routes of transmission.
Infection from H. pylori can cause no problems at all or can lead to the development of gastric ulcers and, less commonly, stomach cancer. People can be cured of this infection through medications like antibiotics. Sometimes, however, it’s not always easy to get rid of. Good hygiene, healthful eating and dietary supplements can help prevent infection or support the body as it heals from the infection.
H. pylori Infection Symptoms
When the bacteria enters the lining of the stomach and upper intestines (duodenum), it secretes a substance that makes the stomach less acidic. As a result, the lining of the stomach becomes more susceptible to injury from stomach acid and enzymes. The main complications associated with H. pylori infection therefore are inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) and the development of stomach ulcers.
Symptoms of a stomach ulcer include:
- Pain in the stomach, especially at night or when the stomach is empty — pain can be intermittent or long lasting
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Dark stools resulting from stomach bleeds
- Reduced appetite
Iron-deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency can occur secondary to H. pylori infection, although researchers still don’t know why.
While stomach cancer isn’t common, H. pylori most often causes it. Signs of stomach cancer resemble those of an ulcer. The recommendation, therefore, is to see a doctor if you have any of the above symptoms that persist.
Most often, H. pylori causes no symptoms at all.
What Foods Cause H. pylori Infection?
Unpasteurized Milk and Dairy Products
Unpasteurized milk and dairy products such as cheese have been linked to H. Pylori infection. This is because unpasteurized dairy products can contain bacteria that are harmful to the body. It is, therefore, recommended to always opt for pasteurized milk and dairy products to avoid the risk of H. Pylori infection.
Consuming Raw or Undercooked Meat
Raw or undercooked meat is also a common cause of H. Pylori infection. It is highly recommended that you avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, especially when travelling to countries where hygiene standards may be lower.
Shellfish
Shellfish, especially oysters and clams, can be a potential food source of H. Pylori infection. If you enjoy consuming shellfish, make sure you cook them thoroughly, and avoid eating them raw.
Contaminated Vegetables and Fruits
Fresh vegetables and fruits are essential for a healthy lifestyle. However, they can also be a source of H. Pylori infection if they are not washed thoroughly before being consumed. Make sure to rinse all vegetables and fruits before eating them.
Foods High in Salt
Foods that are high in salt such french fries, processed meat, and canned foods have been associated with H. Pylori infection. These foods can increase the risk of developing gastritis and other stomach-related issues. To avoid such foods, one can opt for fresh fruits and vegetables which are good sources of vitamins and minerals.
Sugary and Spicy Foods
Consumption of sugary and spicy foods such as sodas, candies, and hot peppers is also likely to contribute to the development of H. Pylori infection. Such foods can irritate the stomach lining and make it more susceptible to infection.
Contaminated Water
Water contaminated with H. Pylori bacteria is a common cause of the disease. It is, therefore, recommended to always ensure that your drinking water is clean and safe. You can do this by boiling your water before consumption, using a water filter, or only relying on bottled water.
H pylori Infection in Stomach?
Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) is a bacterial infection that affects the stomach. H pylori can cause gastritis, stomach ulcers, and even stomach cancer. The bacteria will live in the lining of the stomach for an extended period since it can cause severe symptoms. Even though H pylori infections are common, some people will show no symptoms at all.
Did you know that there’s a bacterium known as H pylori that can cause an infection in your stomach and cause unwanted symptoms? While it’s easy to overlook, it’s essential to take this infection seriously as it can lead to further complications.
Causes of H. Pylori
Most infections occur in children and persist throughout life. The bacteria’s flagella (tail-like appendages that the organisms use to move) enables them to penetrate the stomach lining. Once inside the stomach lining, they become inaccessible to many of the body’s immune defenses.
H. pylori is even protected from hydrochloric acid (stomach acid). The primary function of the acid is to kill bacteria and other unwanted organisms that enter the stomach. However, this bacteria burrows its way into the stomach lining and secretes substances that make the environment inside the stomach less acidic. Therefore, stomach acids do not have any effect on H. pylori.
The exact way that this infection spreads from one person to another is still unclear. However, the bacterium often carries in human feces as well as oral secretions like saliva, vomit and dental plaque. Therefore, contact with the fecal matter without washing the hands, or mouth-to-mouth contact may cause the spread of the bacterium.
In rare cases, this infection is a transmission from pets, particularly cats. Interestingly, research studies have shown that people who own cats have twice the risk of developing H. pylori compared to those who do not. Nevertheless, the risk of this infection causing transmission from domestic animals such as cats is relatively low, and the risk of getting infected can often be minimized through cleaning routines and cat hygiene.
In addition, H. pylori can also be spread by consuming contaminated water or food.
People at Risk
Children are more susceptible to contracting H. pylori infection than adults. They are most at risk because of poor hygiene and children often put things in their mouths, unaware of the dangers. The environment and living conditions mainly determine the risk of infection. Those who are at risk include:
- People living in developing countries
- People sharing items or houses with others who have been infected by H. pylori
- Those living in overcrowded conditions
- Those without access to clean water
H. pylori Diagnosis
Diagnosing H. pylori infection through stool tests and special breathing tests is common. Your doctor may also start by asking you about your health history and that of your family. People who live in the same household are more likely to pass this infection to one another.
To check for damage to the esophagus, stomach and upper intestines that H. pylori could cause, doctors may perform an endoscopy that allows them to see the lining of the digestive tract and take tissue samples for biopsy if necessary.
H. pylori Prevention
There are ways to protect yourself from H. pylori. Generally, proper hygiene helps keep the infection at bay. Some good hygiene practices include:
- Avoid drinking unclean food or water — make sure the water you use is treated or boiled
- Avoid eating raw foods
- Wash your hands before touching any food
Currently, no official vaccine can protect against H. pylori; however, some studies have shown that certain vaccines may be useful for prevention. For example, the pneumococcal vaccine may help prevent pneumococcal pneumonia, which is a condition that often occurs in people with H. pylori. Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver that can weaken the immune system, making it easier for H. pylori to cause an infection. By getting your vaccine, you keep your immune system strong and reduce the chances of this infection.
Did You Know?
- H. pylori is the second-most studied pathogen in the world after E. coli
- Infection with H. pylori may help protect people from other conditions like cholera, diarrhea infections in children, asthma, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome and some cancers
- Research has only confirmed that humans carry, and therefore spread, H. pylori (though) some studies suggest that sheep and houseflies may also transmit the bacteria
H. pylori Treatment and Remedies
Medication
Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to rid the body of H. pylori. Success with antibiotic treatment depends on choosing the right medication (for example, not one to which the patient will show antibiotic resistance), and using it correctly. Sometimes additional courses of antibiotics are necessary. Antacids prescriptions to manage ulcers.
Diet
Some foods reduce colonization and activity of H. pylori in the stomach. As a result, they reduce symptoms of gastritis, ulcers, and stomach cancers. Foods in the brassica family such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and radishes contain compounds called isothiocyanates which inhibit both the growth of H. pylori and cancer cells.
Fruits containing phenolic acids such as blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and bilberries also show antibacterial effects on this infection.
Eating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut in a good way, helping to keep this infection in check. Studies found probiotics to be especially useful when combined with conventional antibiotic treatment.
Finally, honey, especially manuka honey, exhibits antibacterial properties against H. pylori. In one study, researchers found that those who consumed a combination of honey and green or black tea reduced their chance of H. pylori infection.
In most cases, H. pylori infection and associated symptoms heal a few days after administering antibiotics. Avoid taking NSAIDs to treat abdominal pain caused by H. pylori infection because they may cause further damage to your stomach lining. Instead, consult your doctor for pain medication.
Supplements
While conventional treatments for H. pylori often involve antibiotics, alternative medicine offers a natural approach using herbal, vitamin, and mineral remedies. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best H. pylori treatments and remedies that can help you keep the infection under control.
Blueberry Extract
Blueberries contain high levels of phenolic acids which research shows limits the activity of H. pylori in the stomach and makes antibiotic treatment more successful. In addition, it contains loads of other vitamins and minerals that promote overall health, a healthy weight, and cardiovascular health. As a dietary supplement, take 800 milligrams of blueberry extract powder once or twice daily, or as directed by a physician. Best taken with a meal.
Cranberry Extract
Like blueberries, cranberries contain lots of phytochemicals that reduce inflammation, slow the aging process, and inhibit the growth of bacteria. When tested specifically on H. pylori, one study found that a cranberry juice-based beverage reduced the bacteria’s activity in the body. As a supplement, take 400 milligrams of cranberry extract powder one to three times daily, or as directed by a physician. For best results, be sure to drink plenty of water during supplementation.
Green Tea Extract
Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world after water. And for good reason! Green tea in particular offers unparalleled health benefits that include reducing inflammation, supporting the immune system and brain, promoting a healthy weight, and even fighting cancer. Thanks to its high polyphenol content, research also shows that regular green tea drinkers have lower rates of infection. Some supplements, like green tea extract (50% polyphenols) are formulated to contain higher amounts of this specific compound. As a dietary supplement, it’s in servings of 500 mg or consume it once or twice a day. However, intake should never amount to more than 1,000 mg per day, and this supplement should never be used for more than 3 months at a time.
Bee Propolis
Bee propolis is a type of apitherapy which describes products made from bees that have unique healing properties. Propolis has demonstrated therapeutic effects on the digestive system including suppressing H. pylori activity. Take 1200 milligrams once or twice daily, or as directed by a physician.
Celery Seed Extract
When dealing with H. pylori or the stomach ulcers it can cause, celery seed extract can be effective. First, it’s shown antibacterial effects against H. pylori. In addition, it helps promote the production of healthy stomach secretions which protect the lining of the stomach and reduce discomfort associated with ulcers. As a dietary supplement, take 1,000 mg of celery seed extract one to three times daily, or as directed by a physician.
Ginger Root Extract
Ginger is well known for its soothing effects on the stomach. Not only does it relieve discomfort associated with an ulcer, it also inhibits the growth of H. pylori. Eaten fresh, made into a tea, or used as a dietary supplement, there are many ways to incorporate ginger into your daily routine. You can take 1,000 milligrams of ginger root extract once daily, or as directed by a physician. To avoid any heartburn, take with at least 8 ounces of water.
Licorice Root
This is a root extract from the licorice plant. It’s primary use for centuries is to treat gastrointestinal issues and other health problems. Studies suggest that licorice root can help reduce inflammation caused by H. pylori infection and protect the stomach lining from damage. It can also improve symptoms of heartburn and reflux. Licorice root supplements are available in powder, capsule, or tea form.
Olive Leaf Extract
Olive oil gets a lot of credit for its health-promoting properties. However, olive leaves offer many benefits as well! Specifically, it’s an excellent antimicrobial and fights all kinds of infections from bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Not surprisingly, research shows that olive leaf extract also has a protective effect against H. pylori. Take 750 milligrams daily with meals, or as directed by a physician.
The Bottom Line
H. pylori is an extremely common infection worldwide. Most of the time, infection goes unnoticed and causes no symptoms or problems. Sometimes, however, ulcers and stomach cancers can develop. People generally aren’t tested for H. pylori unless they’re experiencing troublesome symptoms. Antibiotic therapy can help eradicate the bacteria. In addition, several nutrients naturally found in plants and plant extracts can help minimize infection and manage uncomfortable symptoms.
H. pylori infection can cause several gastrointestinal problems, but natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms and eradicate the infection. Ginger, cranberry, and licorice root are all effective remedies for this infection. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements or herbal remedies, especially if you are taking medication or have a medical condition. By adopting a natural approach to treating H. pylori, you can achieve optimal gut health and overall well-being.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
