We assure you that you won’t be alone on your journey towards becoming your healthier self.
Health & Wellness
What Foods Causes H Pylon Infection? Know the Treatment Options, Prevention Tips And Home Remedies!
Are you concerned about the risk of H. pylori infection? While many factors contribute to H. pylori infection, certain foods and dietary habits are very affected. Nearly 44.3% of the population worldwide is affected by this microbe. If left undiagnosed and untreated, H. pylori infection causes serious complications, like chronic gastritis, ulcers, and even stomach cancer. It's essential to be aware of the risks for medical attention if you experience any symptoms. This way, you can understand the connection between food and H. pylori and take proactive steps to protect your health.
So, let's explore the link between food and H. pylori and discuss treatment strategies for minimising risk with simple home remedies.
Table Of Contents
1. What Is H Pylori Infection?
2. What Is The Main Cause Of H Pylori Infection?
3. What Foods Causes H Pylori Infection?
4. Treatment Options Of H Pylori Infection
5. How To Prevent H Pylori Infection? 13 Measures
6. Home Remedies For H. Pylori Infections
7. Dietitian’s Recommendation
8. The Final Say
9. FAQs
10. References
What Is H Pylori Infection?
Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can enter the body and settle in the digestive tract. While it has been around for a long time, it was first stomach issues in the 1980s. These bacteria have the potential to develop ulcers in the upper portion of the small intestine or the stomach lining over time.
H. pylori infections are widespread, with about two-thirds of the global population carrying the bacteria. However, most people do not experience symptoms. In some cases, this causes inflammation in the body, and this infection can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
H. pylori is also classified as an infection that impacts the stomach lining, causing inflammation (gastritis) and affecting the small intestine. When infected, the stomach lining becomes swollen, resulting in stomach pain, indigestion, and vomiting. The bacteria can spread from person to person through saliva, vomit, or stool.
Also, consuming contaminated food can also cause infection. H. pylori affects around 50% of the global population. Its prevalence varies worldwide, with about 5% of Indian children under the age of ten being affected. Compared to white Americans, Hispanic and African American populations have a higher rate of infection.
Also Read: 10 Signs Of Respiratory Distress Syndrome | ToneOpCare
What Is The Main Cause Of H Pylori Infection?
The exact way H. pylori spreads from person to person remains unclear. Despite coexisting with humans for centuries, it is known that the infection can pass through mouth-to-mouth contact. It can also spread from faeces to the mouth, particularly if an infected person does not practice proper handwashing practice after using the restroom. This can contaminate food or water that they handle, spreading the infection.
Once ingested, H. pylori can penetrate the stomach lining and release substances that neutralise stomach acids. This weakens the protective stomach lining, making the cells more vulnerable to acidic conditions. The irritation caused by H. pylori and stomach acids leads to ulcers in the stomach or the duodenum.
While the exact transmission of H. pylori remains uncertain, it is widely accepted that the bacteria spread through several routes:
- Mouth-to-mouth contact: Saliva can carry the bacteria, and kissing may transmit it from one person to another.
- Fecal-to-oral transmission: Infection can occur through contact with vomit or stool, particularly if handwashing after using the bathroom is inadequate.
- Contaminated food and water: In unsanitary conditions, food and water can become contaminated with faeces or other bacteria, leading to infection.
Since there are numerous ways that H. pylori might spread, different antibiotic and drug combinations are available to treat the infection and lower the risk of ulcers.
ToneOp Care's Gastro Health Care Combo offers a comprehensive solution to help you manage digestive issues like indigestion, constipation, bloating, and acidity symptoms and improve your digestive health. This combo can improve food absorption and a more comfortable digestive experience by supporting IBS management, enhancing metabolism, and optimising liver function. Try ToneOp Care's Gastro Health Care Combo for 60 days and experience its positive impact on your digestive wellness.
Also Read: Know The 10 Blue Spirulina Benefits: Skin, Digestion, Immunity, Haemoglobin and More
What Foods Cause H Pylori Infection?
Certain foods can increase the risk of H. pylori infection due to how they are handled and prepared. These foods include:
- Raw vegetables like lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, and spinach may carry traces of faeces if not properly washed.
- Unwashed fruits, such as berries, grapes, and apples, can also be contaminated with faeces.
- Undercooked or raw meat and poultry.
- Shellfish, like oysters, clams, and mussels, can harbour harmful bacteria.
- Contaminated water.
Unwashed fruits and vegetables are particularly risky for H. pylori transmission because they may come into contact with faecal matter or body fluids from infected individuals during preparation, leading to the unintentional spread of bacteria.
To lower the risk of infection, it's recommended to avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, shellfish, and poultry. Since H. pylori bacteria can survive at high temperatures (up to 95 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes), it’s essential to ensure that food is thoroughly cooked to eliminate the bacteria.
When travelling to areas where H. pylori is prevalent, drinking bottled or boiled water is safer to minimise the risk of infection.
For relief from digestive discomfort, consider Digest 360 Tablets by ToneOp Care. This product offers 12 powerful enzymes, restores your digestive system's balance, and supports optimal gut health.
Also Read: Probiotic And Prebiotic Foods To Eat For Good Digestion
Treatment Options For H Pylori Infection
Treatment for H. pylori infection typically involves using at least two antibiotics simultaneously to lessen the possibility that the bacteria will develop resistance to one. Along with antibiotics, medications that aid in stomach healing are often included.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These drugs reduce stomach acid production. Examples include omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and pantoprazole (Protonix).
- Bismuth subsalicylate: Commonly known as Pepto-Bismol, this medication helps protect ulcers from stomach acid by forming a protective coating.
- Histamine (H-2) blockers: These drugs reduce acid production by blocking histamine, which promotes acid release. An example is cimetidine (Tagamet HB). Histamine blockers are usually prescribed only when PPIs cannot be used.
After treatment, it's recommended to repeat H. pylori testing at least four weeks later. If the infection persists, another round of treatment with a different combination of antibiotics may be necessary.
How To Prevent H Pylori Infection? 13 Measures
Consider identifying these preventive measures to manage H pylori infection:
Preventive Measure | Benefits | Additional Advice |
Wash hands after using the toilet | Washing hands helps eliminate any bacteria that is transferred from contaminated surfaces, reducing infection risk. | Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent spreading bacteria. |
Wash hands before cooking or eating | Proper handwashing before handling food prevents the introduction of harmful bacteria into meals. | Keep your cooking area clean and practice proper food safety techniques, such as using clean utensils and surfaces. |
Avoid contaminated food/water | Contaminated food or water can carry H. pylori bacteria, leading to infection if consumed. | Drink only clean, filtered water, and wash food thoroughly, especially in areas with poor sanitation. |
Cook food thoroughly | Cooking food at high temperatures kills bacteria, including H. pylori, which can survive in undercooked or raw food. | Steer clear of raw or undercooked fish, poultry, or meat to lower your risk of infection. |
Stop smoking | Smoking can weaken the immune system and irritate the stomach lining, making infections like H. pylori easier. | Quitting smoking will lower infection risk and promote better health, including improved stomach function. |
Stop drinking alcohol | Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and makes it more vulnerable to bacterial infections like H. pylori. | Reducing or avoiding alcohol intake helps protect the stomach lining and improves digestive health. |
Follow proper hygiene practices | Maintaining good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and keeping personal items clean, reduces the spread of bacteria. | Ensure that personal hygiene routines are followed consistently, especially in shared or public spaces. |
Avoid close contact with affected people | Close contact, like sharing utensils or engaging in mouth-to-mouth contact, can transmit H. pylori bacteria. | Limit direct physical interaction and contact with an infected person, particularly in areas where infection rates are high. |
Avoid sharing dishes with disabled people | Disabled individuals compromised immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections like H. pylori. | Always use clean, separate dishes and utensils to prevent cross-contamination, especially with high-risk individuals. |
Balanced gastritis diet | A balanced diet helps manage symptoms of gastritis, reducing stomach irritation and aiding in healing. | Focus on gentle foods on the stomach, avoiding acidic, spicy, or greasy foods that may trigger gastritis symptoms. |
Home remedies for gastritis | Natural remedies, such as herbal teas and probiotics, can soothe stomach discomfort caused by H. pylori infection-related gastritis. | Including remedies like ginger tea or yoghurt can provide additional relief and support stomach healing during gastritis flare-ups. |
Basic hygiene | Practicing basic hygiene, especially in areas with poor sanitation, helps prevent the spread of H. pylori bacteria. | Be careful when travelling to developing countries by maintaining cleanliness and avoiding risky food and water sources. |
Undergo treatment if diagnosed | Treating H. pylori infection early with antibiotics and medications helps prevent complications like ulcers or stomach cancer. | Even if symptoms are mild or absent, timely treatment is essential to prevent long-term health issues associated with untreated H. pylori infection. |
4 Home Remedies For H. Pylori Infections
Note these home remedies for reference to prevent and manage the H pylori infection:
1. Probiotics
Taking probiotic supplements is one great way to make your gut health resilient and ease recovery from any bacterial infection.
- What to do: Take probiotic supplements daily alongside prescribed medications. You can also incorporate natural probiotic sources like yoghurt or kefir into your diet.
- How often: Daily, after consulting your doctor.
- Why it works: Probiotics can help reduce the side effects of antibiotics during H. pylori treatment and promote gut health.
2. Aloe Vera
You will need 1 aloe vera leaf, 1 cup of water, and any juice (optional).
- What to do: Use a spoon to extract the gel from the aloe vera leaf. Mix the gel with a cup of water, and add fruit juice or honey for added flavour. Drink this mixture.
- How often: Once or every other day for a few weeks.
- Why it works: Aloe vera exhibits antimicrobial properties against H. pylori and can complement antibiotic treatment effectively.
3. Licorice Root
You will need 1-2 teaspoons of liquorice root and 1 cup of water.
- What to do: Add liquorice root to a cup of water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer, strain, and allow it to cool before drinking.
- How often: Drink this 1-2 times a day.
- Why it works: Licorice root has anti-H. Pylori properties that may aid in treating and preventing the infection.
4. Turmeric
You will need 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 glass of hot milk.
- What to do: Mix turmeric powder into hot milk and drink it. Alternatively, you can take curcumin supplements after consulting your doctor.
- How often: Once a day for at least a week.
- Why it works: Turmeric’s active component, curcumin, has anti-H. Pylori has immune-boosting properties, making it beneficial for treating infections.
Also Read: Are Digestive Enzyme Supplements Safer Option? Check Out These 5 Benefits!
Dietitian’s Recommendation
I recommend avoiding foods that aggravate H. pylori, such as spicy foods, acidic drinks, and alcohol. However, if your doctor approves, consider adding probiotics to your diet to support your gut health. Probiotics may help fight off an H. pylori infection by balancing your gut flora.
Dt. Lavina Chauhan
The Final Say
Helicobacter pylori infects the stomach lining. This infection spreads rapidly, and people with H. pylori experience stomach ulcers, nausea, bloating, belching, and vomiting. However, there are natural remedies for Helicobacter pylori infection. Consuming probiotics, green tea, honey, olive oil, aloe vera, and liquorice root aids in treating these infections. Also, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contaminated food or water, and quitting drinking and smoking help manage and prevent these infections.
FAQs
1. Is there a vaccine to prevent H. pylori infection?
Currently, there is no approved vaccine to prevent H. pylori infection in humans, although research is ongoing.
2. What causes pylori infection?
H. pylori infection primarily spreads through person-to-person contact, often from contaminated food or water. It can also be transmitted through saliva or faecal matter.
3. How does Helicobacter pylori cause gastritis?
H. pylori bacteria can damage the lining of the stomach and small intestine. Inflammation from this damage can result in gastritis. Chronic gastritis raises the risk of stomach cancer and ulcers over time.
4. What are the symptoms of Helicobacter pylori?
Many people with H. pylori infection experience no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and belching
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dark, tarry stools (indicating bleeding)
References
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10262674/#:~:text=pylori%20infection.,-16%2C17&text=Furthermore%2C%20a%20dietary%20pattern%20characterized,increased%20risk%20of%20the%20infection.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/h-pylori/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356177
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21463-h-pylori-infection
About ToneOp Care
ToneOp Care is the ultimate destination for high-quality nutraceutical supplements and ayurvedic products in India! We are proud to offer a significant range of products designed to support your overall health and well-being, including weight loss, muscle gain, immunity, skin and hair care, and women's health. All our products are manufactured in India using the latest technology and facilities, ensuring the highest quality standards.