Lesions can cause peptic ulcers in the stomach’s mucosal lining and the duodenum. They penetrate the muscles mucosae and are known as gastric ulcers or duodenal ulcers (GU). As a result, they can affect the distal part of your esophagus. The most common type of ulcer is duodenal. About 10% of people suffer from chronic peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers are caused by H. pylori infection. This can be due to poor food habits, food poisoning, and long-term storage of beverages. Ingestion of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can cause overproduction. The majority of those affected are the elderly. However, smokers are the two groups who are twice as likely to get the ulcer. A peptic ulcer can occur from both acute and chronic stress. A peptic ulcer can be caused by NSAIDs, alcohol, smoking, and increased caffeine intake.
Duodenal ulcers and Gastric ulcers can cause mild symptoms. Duodenal ulcer sufferers feel a burning sensation and gnawing in their upper and middle abdomens. This can happen after eating and can last for up to three hours. Chronic ulcers can sometimes cause severe abdominal pain, bloody vomiting, and weight loss.
The gastric ulcer can cause a burning sensation in the upper abdomen and pain in the upper abdomen (Epigastric area). This can be relieved with food or antacids. Antral gastritis can sometimes be caused by H. pylori infection.
TREATMENT STRATEGIES
Naturopathy principles state that abnormal blood and lymph composition and accumulation of toxic matter (toxins) lowers immunity (vitality), and thus, the body is more susceptible to bacterial infections.
Yoga and Naturopathy can be used to treat peptic ulcers. Dietetics and Nutrition support healing the gastric mucosa, fighting infection, and reducing recurrence. Yoga and other mind-body techniques, such as deep relaxation, meditation, and stress management, may help to alleviate symptoms and improve healing.
DIET AND NUTRITION
* Do not consume dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, or sugar. Because of the irritating oils, coffee, even decaffeinated, should be avoided. Eliminate all food allergies.
* Incorporate sulfur-containing foods like garlic, onions and cabbage. Sulfur, a glutathione precursor, provides antioxidant protection for the gastric mucosa.
* Eat enough bananas that are rich in potassium and plantain to reap the benefits.
* Buttermilk can normalize the bowel flora and help to prevent H. pylori.
* Consume Vitamin C-rich foods such as melons, oranges, strawberries, and other citrus fruits. This reduces stomach cancer risk and prevents H. Pylori.
Zinc-containing foods such as nuts, seeds, cereals and whole grains can help to boost healing. Vitamin E, A & Glutamine aid in healing ulcers. Although it can initially be irritating, cabbage juice (1 quart/day is high in glutamine) may become a soothing drink.
NATUROPATHY TREATMENTS
* Applying a mud pack to your eyes and abdomen for 20-30 mins can relax the nervous system and smoothen the gastric function.
* A 20-minute cold hip bath can be used to treat peptic ulcers and other stomach irritations.
A cold abdominal compress/pack for 30 to 45 minutes can be an effective treatment option. The person suffering from a gastric ulcer can use this easily and continue his day without interruption.
A full mud bath can be used for up to 45 minutes to remove toxins from your body.
Massage to the abdomen can help maintain hyper and diminished peristaltic movements.
* Therapeutic massage can reduce stress and improve your sense of well-being.