1. What is
– GERD
– gastric ulcer
– gastritis
– pan gastritis
– duodenitis?
a. GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a digestive disorder that affects the ring muscles between the esophagus and stomach (called LES – lower esophageal sphincter), causing the stomach’s content to go back up into the esophagus (also called heartburn). GERD has been linked to cancer of the esophagus.
b. A gastric ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach. Also known as peptic ulcer or stomach ulcer. Caused by digestive acids eating away at the inner surface of the stomach creating a painful open sore. Gastric ulcers has been linked to stomach cancer.
c. Gastritis is the irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining where the lining is red and swollen.
d. Pan gastritis is a similar inflammation involving the lining of the entire stomach.
e. Duodenitis is inflammation of the duodenum which is located just below your stomach. Gastritis and duodenitis have the same causes and treatments.
Possible symptoms of gastric ulcer, gastritis, pan gastritis, duodenitis:
– upper abdominal pain
– indigestion
– bloating
– nausea
– vomiting
– belching
– loss of appetite
– weight loss
2. What are their possible causes?
A. Possible causes of GERD:
– “hiatal hernia”, which can be due to sudden physical exertion, can cause increased pressure in the abdomen (from coughing, vomiting, straining…). Overweight and pregnancy also contribute to this condition. Plus:
– large meals
– high fat foods
– meats
– eggs
B, C, D, E. Their causes and symptoms are very similar. Main causes:
– stress (esp emotional stress)
– inflaming foods, including fried foods, very spicy foods, meats, dairy.
– helicobacter pylori bacteria infection
– weak immune system
– certain drugs and medications
The most common cause —acute and chronic—is prolonged use of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. Other possible contributors include alcohol, cocaine and radiation.
Less common possible causes:
– autoimmune condition
– Crohn’s disease
– infectious agents.
3. What foods can help?
There is no gastritis diet, but a nutrient dense high fibre, anti-inflammatory and easy to digest diet helps:
– berries
– leafy greens like kale, broccoli
– raw nuts
– raw seeds (flaxseeds, sunflower, pumpkin…)
– high fibre foods
Best foods for digestion:
– papaya
– banana
– watermelon
– ginger
– turmeric
– sweet potato.
Banana as a natural antacid helps soothes the pain from stomach ulcers.
Bananas greatly strengthen our digestive system. Acid reflux symptoms often result from poor digestion.
4. What other natural solutions can help?
– exercise 30 min a day, esp long, slow exercise outdoors with some sun to de-stress and increase serotonin levels
– a nutrient dense diet high in omega3 (flaxseeds) to boost the immune system
– relaxation and positive mindset (meditation, gratitude, happy memories…)
– do not multitask during eating. Relax, focus and enjoy your meal.
GERD – other solutions:
– avoid food known to cause GERD
– eat smaller meals
– do not lie down after eating
– elevate your bed
– lose weight
5. My personal experience with gastric ulcer
I used to have severe gastric ulcer pains. Western medication did not help much. Antacid pills and antacid syrup made me nauseous, and the pain remained.
Through research and awareness, I realized
– a strong emotional factor was involved – depression
– banana’s serotonin uplifted my depression
– banana is a natural antacid that eases gastric pains
Bananas were my cure for gastric ulcer.
Disclaimer:
The information shared here is for educational purposes only.
These opinions are not given as medical advice and not intended to replace or conflict with your decisions or healthcare providers’ advice.
Sources:
1. “Gastritis or Ulcer, No Antibiotic Treatment“, Fairview Health Services.
“The Link Between Gastric Ulcers and Stomach Cancer“, Oncology Nursing News, June 16, 2014.
2. Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD. “Gastritis Symptoms, Causes, Diet, Home Remedies, Treatment, and Cure“, MedicineNet.
“Gastritis/Duodenitis“, HealthLine.
Michael Greger M.D. FACLM. “Treating Parkinson’s Disease with Diet” (Video), NutritionFacts.org, Volume 12, M
Michael Greger M.D. FACLM. “Diet & GERD Acid Reflux Heartburn” (Video), NutritionFacts.org, Volume 24,
3. “Foods that fight inflammation“, Harvard Health Publishing, November 7, 2018.
Justin Kaechele. “Home remedies for GERD: A case for bananas“, RefluxMD, November 23rd, 2018.
David Williams. “Natural Treatments for Stomach Ulcers“, DrDavidWilliams.com, 04/03/2019.
4. “10 Ways to Boost Dopamine and Serotonin Naturally“, GoodTherapy.org, December 12, 2017.
Dennis Thompson Jr. “10 Ways to Prevent GERD“, EverydayHealth.com, Jan 2016.
Sally Gao. “Traditional Chinese Medicine Tricks to Aid Digestion“, Culture Trip, 3 MARCH 2017.