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Alexandra is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach & Holistic Nutritionist specializing in IBS, SIBO, and Gut Health. She helps her clients identify the root causes of their chronic gut issues with functional testing, supporting their bodies holistically and implementing the necessary lifestyle changes long-term to regain control of their bodies and enjoy food freedom. Book your FREE SIBO Assessment call now >>>

Gastritis signs, causes, and 5 effective natural remedies

My short Gastritis story

When I went through a stressful period in my early thirties, one day, all of a sudden, I found myself lying in a fetal pose on the floor with unbearable burning pain in my stomach. My gut just signaled me; that was enough. I went to the GI doctor, who diagnosed me with Gastritis.

The solution in my story was to deal with the stress by using "energy healing," working on my current mindset, changing eating habits, and using natural remedies to overcome Gastritis quite quickly.

Let's learn about this condition in more detail!

 

Gastritis signs, causes, treatment

What is Gastritis?

Gastritis refers to the inflammation and or swelling of the stomach lining. The stomach lining has a vital role. It contains cells responsible for the acid and enzyme production that support the digestion process by breaking down the food into smaller particles and mucus production, which protects the stomach lining from acid.

The process looks like digestive juices cause damage and inflame the stomach lining, resulting in Gastritis. Therefore less enzymes, acid, and mucus will be produced. Gastritis can be acute, chronic, or atrophic.

Acute Gastritis happens mostly suddenly with severe symptoms and inflammation in the stomach lining. If the irritation is happening for an extended time, then it becomes atrophic Gastritis.

What are the signs of Gastritis?

Gastritis doesn't always cause symptoms, but when it does, these can be the most common signs:

  • Stomach pain (sharp or burning feeling, usually upper abdominal)
  • Belching
  • Nausea, even vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Indigestion
  • Feeling of fullness even after eating a few bites (but might be still hungry)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue

There can be blood in the stool or vomiting, sweat, racing heart, etc. This state requires medical attention. (1)

How is Gastritis diagnosed?

Generally, your GI doctor performs an endoscopy (a tube inserted into your stomach through your throat) to check for any inflammation or abnormalities. Your doctor may also take a small piece of a sample (a biopsy) from the stomach lining. A blood test, stool test, or even an X-ray can be ordered as well. (2)

What causes Gastritis?

There can be several reasons why Gastritis can happen:

  • Helicobacter pylori infection – this is a bacteria that can lower stomach acid production, cause inflammation and ulcers, and is primarily associated with stomach cancer. (3)(4)
  • Other fungal (e.g., Candida (5)), bacterial (6) viral, parasitic infections
  • Alcohol consumption and smoking (7)
  • Certain drugs and medications:
    • The overuse of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – PPIs are tricky since they are commonly used to reduce the inflammation caused by Gastritis and in the treatment of H. pylori infection, but being long-term on PPIs can actually cause Gastritis and even SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) (8)(9)
    • Usage of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can contribute to ulcers. (10)
  • Extreme stress or trauma can also trigger Gastritis (commonly called Stress-induced Gastritis). A study showed that long-term stress could indeed cause inflammation. During stressful periods, the body secretes more acid. The mucus layer on the stomach lining is broken down (which would typically have a protective function against acid), so this negative process exposes the stomach to injury. (11) (12) No wonder, since our gut and our brain are connected.
  • Bile reflux means that the bile flows upward (refluxes) from the duodenum into the stomach and even moves back up into the throat. Refluxed bile can cause irritation and inflammation. (13) Normally, the sphincter keeps acid and other stomach contents from going back up your esophagus from the stomach when it functions properly and closes. (14)
  • Autoimmunity is when the body's immune system starts attacking its own cells. "Leaky gut" can be a significant contributing factor to autoimmune conditions (15), besides genetic predisposition and environmental factors. When there is a leaky gut, then food particles will not completely be digested, and in this form, they can leak into the bloodstream. The immune system gets alerted and sees these elements as potential invaders, triggering an inflammatory response, which further aggravates an autoimmune disease. This process can result in autoimmune Gastritis when the immune system attacks the lining of the stomach. (16)
  • SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) – meaning an excess bacteria present in the small intestine, causing bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation, and other digestive and non-digestive symptoms. The abundance of these bacteria may cause gastric inflammation. However, the study suggested that there can be a higher severity of stomach inflammation and increased overgrowth due to low stomach acid production in patients with severe H. pylori-induced gastritis. (17)
  • Poor eating habits and specific dietary factors: Processed, spicy, acidic foods, coffee, and excess sugar consumption – certain foods may trigger or worsen the symptoms. (18)(19)

Treatment options for Gastritis

Allopathic medicine offers different treatment options that include proton pump inhibitors to block stomach acid production. They can also prescribe Antacids or H2 blockers for the same reason. In case the underlying cause is H. pylori infection, they usually recommend "Triple therapy."

These can help short-term by relieving gastritis symptoms and allowing your stomach lining to heal, but long-term use can lead to several diseases, not to mention side effects. Unfortunately, they also don't address the root causes of this condition.

You need to discuss the treatment options with your healthcare provider, and there are cases when these medications are required.

Natural remedies for Gastritis treatment

How to Overcome Gastritis Naturally

1. Address the underlying cause of Gastritis whenever possible

Treatment may vary depending on what is causing your symptoms. Some people may be more prone to develop Gastritis than others. If H. pylori infection is causing the problem, then it needs to be eradicated.

Regardless of the cause, it is always crucial to reduce inflammation.

2. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet

When the stomach lining is "on fire," you want to dampen this by avoiding inflammatory foods such as spicy & hot foods, coffee, wheat, alcohol, sugar, processed foods, dairy, hydrogenated oils, trans fats, and any possible trigger of yours.

Writing a food journal or following an elimination diet may also help you identify your triggers. This is even more vital if you have an autoimmune condition.

Nourish your body with whole anti-inflammatory foods: vegetables (especially leafy greens, broccoli sprouts), fruits (berries, and dark-colored fruits), healthy fats (coconut oil, olive oil), whole grains, fish, and meat, fresh green herbs, plant-based proteins.

In the beginning, you may find digesting pureed vegetables easier.

3. Lifestyle matters

If you are similar to me and super sensitive to stress, then stress management should be part of your life every day. There are many ways, and you need to find a few techniques that are closer to your personality. I found journaling is a great way to deal with extra stress and anxiety. Coping with stress may even start with saying no to certain tasks or people you don't feel aligned with. If you are new to this, having a "guided" journal** is the best way to get started.

But exercise, meditation, and listening to your favorite music are also great ways.

While some of these lifestyle recommendations may seem easy, in reality, it requires quite a commitment to change a habit. But it is possible! It is a journey.

 4. Use natural gut-supporting nutrients

  • Specific mucogenic agents can help protect the gut lining, such as slippery elm, marshmallow root, mastic gum, aloe vera juice, and DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). (20) These plants should be avoided if you have active SIBO or are only used in the healing phase.
  • Turmeric (Curcumin) has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study showed that turmeric capsules were used as a treatment for 4 weeks for patients with Gastritis and dyspepsia. In the first and second week of the treatment, their abdominal pain and discomfort decreased, and they could eat normal foods again. (21) Furthermore, turmeric seemed to be the most effective in killing H. pylori. (22)
  • Picrorhiza kurroa rhizomes is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of digestive problems. According to a study, this remarkable plant could effectively heal stomach ulceration (in mice). (23)
  • Fresh cabbage juice is a common natural remedy for gastritis and peptic ulcers. It contains antioxidants and several vitamins, but the most prominent is "vitamin U," which has a role in the healing of the stomach lining. (24) Another study found that cabbage juice, especially mixed with chlorella or kale, has significant anti-gastritis effects and can be used for a long time to prevent and treat gastric cancer and Gastritis. (25) (Ye-Ji Hong, 2013)

5. Try fermented foods as probiotics

Fermented foods don't just taste great but have many beneficial effects not just on the gut but also on nearly every health aspect.

Most traditional fermented foods and drinks, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, tempeh, kombucha, etc., are natural sources of probiotic microorganisms. Studies showed that regular consumption of these probiotic foods might control H. pylori and has a preventative impact against peptic ulcers and stomach cancer. (26)(27)

The best fermented foods are Lacto-fermented foods with living cultures. They shouldn't contain any preservatives or vinegar. These products are primarily found in the refrigerated section in the stores if you don't use homemade.

Whenever you feel like starting to incorporate more fermented foods into your diet, start slowly.

The Bottom line

Gastritis is an irritation or injury to the stomach's lining. If Gastritis is left untreated, it can lead to stomach bleeding, ulcers, and even stomach cancer.  Your GI doctor can perform tests to define the level of inflammation and if you H. pylori infection or other contributing factors.

Depending on your health situation, you might choose conventional treatment or deal with your condition with natural remedies. Regardless of the cause of Gastritis, reducing inflammation should always be the center of your focus. One of the best tools is to follow an anti-inflammatory diet, including plenty of antioxidants and whole foods that support the healing process. You can boost the regeneration process of the stomach by incorporating natural nutrients, fermented foods and changing your current lifestyle by quitting smoking, eating smaller meals, and reducing stress.

 

*This post is only for informational purposes; and not meant to diagnose, or treat any disease. I advise consulting with your healthcare practitioner regarding any treatment options or dietary changes.

**The post contains affiliate links! If you purchase anything through these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Preventing SIBO relapse: Your body’s 6 natural defense barriers against SIBO

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Discover your body's 6 natural defense barriers against SIBO

Your body has many different defense mechanisms to deal with any possible infection or microorganism attack, or potential overgrowth (bacterial, fungal). Any dysfunction in the defense system may contribute to the development of (re-occurring) SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).

SIBO relapse - body’s natural defense system against SIBO

What is SIBO?

SIBO is defined as the presence of excessive bacteria in the small intestine. Say the problem is that there are too many bacteria and/or the wrong type of bacteria present in the wrong place. If you have SIBO, then you may experience excess/trapped gas, (extreme) bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation, abdominal pain, cramping, food sensitivities, chronic fatigue, brain fog, skin issues, and the list goes on. (1)(2)

Be sure to test for SIBO before you jump on any elimination protocol. It is also essential to determine the type(s) of overgrowth you have, as treatment protocols may differ.

Now, many people solely focus on eliminating the overgrowth by using herbals or even antibiotics or being on strict diets, which can be a crucial part of the process. Still, more important is finding and resolving the root causes of SIBO, whenever possible, to prevent relapse.

Some contributing factors could include dysfunctions in the body's natural defense system, such as low stomach acid, poor bile flow, disordered or absent motility, etc.

Let's look at some of them one by one:

How does your body protect you from infections or overgrowth (SIBO)?

1. Saliva

Saliva, produced by the salivary glands, belongs to our body's first line of defense against infections. Saliva consists of around 90% water, but it contains several chemical compounds with antibacterial properties against pathogens. One of them is the mucus in the mouth, which stimulates white blood cells to form a 'net' that traps bacteria. (3) Moreover, saliva contains lysozyme (an enzyme), and lactoferrin that can break down the cell walls of many bacteria.
Saliva also helps maintain our digestive system by adding beneficial components to the food, such as enzymes that help predigest starches and fats. (4) That is why proper chewing is so important.

Interestingly, studies show that oral bacteria can travel to the gut and affect the gut microbiome and the gut immune system. It is logical, since we usually swallow a large amount of saliva daily, which contains many oral bacteria. Generally, only a tiny fraction of the ingested oral bacteria colonizes a healthy intestine. However, in cases of illness (IBD, GERD, etc.), many bacteria are found in the intestine, and a dysbiotic gut may lead to problems in other parts of the body. Good oral hygiene, adequate stomach acid levels, and pre- and probiotics may help improve oral & gut health. (5)

2. Stomach acid

Contrary to the commonly accepted belief that we have issues due to too much stomach acid, many SIBO patients actually have low stomach acid. A proper gastric acid or hydrochloric acid (HCl) secretion is needed not just for digesting food but also for eliminating bacteria, yeast, and parasites present in the food. It stimulates the digestive tract further along, promoting the production of digestive juices to break down our food into smaller particles. Unfortunately, stomach acid production decreases with age, especially after age 65. (6)

If you cannot digest the food you eat due to insufficient gastric acid, you may be malnourished, and bacteria will feed on these undigested food particles. Low stomach acid levels are also a risk factor for SIBO because they cannot eliminate bacteria or keep them in check in the small intestine. (7)

There are several reasons why someone has insufficient stomach acid production:

  • Helicobacter pylori infection,(8)
  • Medications (such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids), (9)
  • Chronic stress (10)
  • Autoimmune gastritis (11)
  • Hypothyroidism (12)
  • Certain foods, mainly processed foods or food sensitivities
  • Zinc deficiency (13)
  • Eating too quickly
  • Low protein intake

The most reliable way to check if you have either hypochlorhydria (insufficient stomach acid),  hyperchlorhydria (excess stomach acid), or achlorhydria (no stomach acid) is the Heidelberg test or Gastric Function Test. Doctors may also order blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies and other parameters. (14) (T. Ghosh, 2011)

Another easy and cheap way to check your stomach acid levels is a home-based baking soda test. All you need is baking soda. While this works well most of the time, there are a number of factors that may produce false-positive or false-negative results, so the best approach is to repeat it several times at different times to get the most accurate results.

If you wish to perform the test:

Mix ¼ teaspoon of baking soda in 5 ounces or 1,5 dl glass of cold water and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning before you eat or drink anything else. Now check the time, how long it takes for you to start burping. If it takes more than five minutes, or if you don't burp at all, it's an indication that your stomach acid might be low. Generally, if you have a proper stomach acid level, you should start burping within 2-3 minutes. If you burp too frequently or start right away, you may have too much acid.

So, how can you support your stomach acid production?

  • Be mindful of your eating habits – chew your food!
  • Limit the intake of processed and high-sugar-containing foods
  • Drink apple cider vinegar diluted in a small glass of water before meals (it might not be tolerated if you have histamine intolerance)
  • Use bitter herbs or start your meal with bitter leaves such as rocket/arugula, dandelion leaves
  • Eat your protein at the beginning of your meal
  • Supplement with betaine HCl and pepsin – starting slowly and increasing your dosage as required. If you feel a burning sensation, it is already a sign that it is too much! Avoid if you have gastritis or ulcers. Check with your healthcare provider before you start taking HCl if it is safe for you!

 3. Bile acids

Bile is a greenish-yellow fluid continuously produced by your liver, stored, and eventually concentrated in your gallbladder. The biliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, plays a vital role in the production, storage, and secretion of bile. When we eat food, bile gets released from the gallbladder into the small intestine via the bile ducts. The primary role of bile is to emulsify the fats in your small intestine to help the digestion process and absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins (D, E, K, A). (15)

But bile has another role besides food digestion. Bile belongs to one of your body's defense mechanisms. It helps maintain a clean intestinal environment through its antibacterial properties. Bile keeps the bacteria in check and prevents them from colonizing the small intestine. One reason why someone may get SIBO is because of their sluggish gallbladder function and poor bile flow. (16)

Bile may also play an essential role in regulating gut motility and controlling bacterial growth. (17) More about gut motility below.

What are the signs that your gallbladder needs more attention?

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Bloating after meals
  • Pain or feeling of heaviness under your right rib cage
  • Right shoulder pain
  • Constipation or diarrhea (when eating too much fat)
  • Light or gray-colored stools
  • Greasy, floating stools
  • Not tolerating fats: oils, nuts, seeds, dairy products, etc.

You can support your gallbladder function when you:

  • Avoid processed foods and excess starchy carbohydrates (white flour, sugar, potatoes, pasta, etc.)
  • Avoid trans fats, hydrogenated fats, and processed vegetable oils
  • Add essential fatty acids
  • Add more (low-FODMAP) fibers like carrots, flax seeds, chia seeds, quinoa, etc.
  • Avoid triggering foods (gluten and dairy are the most common ones)
  • Address low thyroid function or autoimmune Hashimoto's hypothyroidism
  • Add herbs: dandelion root, milk thistle, ginger root, globe artichoke, turmeric

SIBO prevention body’s natural defense system against SIBO

4. Digestive enzymes

Similar to stomach acid and bile acid, digestive enzymes are also required for proper nutrient absorption and the prevention of bacterial overgrowth.

The three main digestive enzymes are:

  • protease (breaks down protein)
  • lipase (breaks down fat)
  • amylase (breaks down starches)

that further break down food into smaller particles. Digestive enzymes can be secreted from different glands: salivary glands, gastric glands, the pancreas, and the small intestine.

Besides, brush border enzymes in the lining of the small intestine are involved in the final step in the digestion of dietary carbohydrates and proteins.

Pancreatic secretion supports intestinal integrity and controls the microbiota by supporting the mucosal barrier. Bacterial outgrowth is controlled by pancreatic antibacterial secretion. (18)

When you don't produce enough enzymes, you might experience:

  • Bloating, gas
  • Fatigue & lack of energy
  • Fatty stools (Steatorrhea)
  • Food intolerances
  • Undigested foods in stools
  • Skin rashes, acne
  • Diarrhea and/or constipation
  • Uncomfortable feeling of fullness all of the time

There are several reasons why people don't produce enough enzymes, such as Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), chronic stress, infections, medications, leaky gut,  poor eating habits, etc.

If you or your practitioner suspect that you lack digestive enzymes, then supplemental digestive enzymes can help your body process foods & absorb nutrients better. It is especially beneficial when you have food intolerances or mainly eat cooked foods. (19) (Lipski, 2011)

5. Gut motility (the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC))

One of the most common underlying causes of SIBO is an absent or dysfunctional migrating motor complex (MMC). (20)

MMC is the housekeeper of your GI tract that gets activated during fasting periods (between meals and at night) and sweeps the remaining gut bacteria and food particles towards the colon, preventing the overgrowth of bacteria.

Nerve damage or structural problems such as adhesions, blind loops, and diverticulosis may block the bacterial clearance or facilitate backflow from the large intestine (in case of a dysfunctional or absent ileocecal valve, for example). (21)

So what does it mean when your MMC is out of order? It simply means that the remaining food particles and bacteria stay in your small intestine for longer than usual, and bacteria can start feeding on that waste and producing gas (contributing to bloating and other digestive symptoms). This would be a normal process if it happened in the colon, where most of your bacteria reside.

This is one of the most important things to address when you have SIBO or slow motility.

There are several ways you can improve your gut motility:

  • Manage your stress (When we are under stress, our digestive system stops working correctly as it is not a priority at that moment, so as your MMC shuts down) - That is why it is crucial to stop and eat in a calm environment and not on the run (22)(R.M. Valori, 1986)
  • Stop snacking and give your digestive system 4-5 hours of break between meals and possibly overnight fasting, so your MMC has a chance to work (23)
  • Eat slowly and chew your food properly
  • Consider intestinal massage
  • Apply vagus nerve stimulation techniques (23)
  • Use motility agents (ask your doctor about them) to stimulate your MMC: some natural-based ones contain ginger, artichoke extracts (24), 5-HTP (25), vitamin B6 (26)

6. Ileocecal valve

The ileocecal valve is a sphincter located in the last section of the small intestine (ileum), where it connects to the first portion of the large intestine (cecum). It opens to allow digested food to pass downward and closes to prevent the backflow of colonic contents or waste into the small intestine (ileum). (27)

The problem occurs when the valve is impaired. It means the valve opens too long and allows waste flow back up to the small intestines, resulting in ileocecal valve syndrome (ICVS), which may predispose an individual to SIBO. (28) What causes the ICVS to happen is when the valve gets stuck in an open or closed position. An open ileocecal valve might result in SIBO or diarrhea, while a closed valve might result in constipation. Besides, gas production by the bacteria may also put further pressure on the valve. (29)

What causes the Ileocecal Valve Syndrome? (30)

  • Dehydration
  • Irritant foods: popcorn, chips, pretzels, nuts, seeds, whole grains
  • Stimulants: caffeine products (coffee, black tea), cocoa, chocolate
  • Alcohol
  • Strong spices: chili, black, and cayenne pepper, hot peppers
  • Infections (parasitic, fungal, bacterial, viral)
  • Stress and emotional trauma
  • Unhealthy eating habits (under-chewing of food, eating too fast, too frequently)
  • Adrenal imbalances

A study has suggested that dysfunction of this valve can contribute to symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation/diarrhea, heart symptoms, insomnia, nerve pain, muscle pain, stiffness, etc. (28)

How to have a properly functioning ileocecal valve? (30)

  1. Ileocecal valve massage
  2. Eliminate irritating foods from your diet
  3. Have mindful eating habits
  4. Chiropractic treatment

Other factors

The immune system and a healthy microbiome may also protect you against potential overgrowth.

 

Conclusion

When dealing with SIBO, it is important to focus on restoring the body's natural defense barriers against bacterial overgrowth and not simply getting stuck in the clearing phase.

When we talk about proper digestion and prevention of bacterial overgrowth, it is hydrochloric acid in the stomach and bile salts, and a healthy digestive tract that work together to facilitate nutritional absorption. It is crucial to identify and address the root causes and the contributing factors, so SIBO does not return once we eliminate it.

 

 

This post is only for informational purposes and is not meant to diagnose or treat any disease.  I advise consulting with your healthcare practitioner regarding any treatment options or dietary changes.

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Can Helicobacter pylori infection be the root cause of SIBO?

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Helicobacter pylori infection cause SIBO

Can Helicobacter pylori infection be the root cause of SIBO?

My short answer is yes.

When you are diagnosed with SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), this is just one step closer to healing. It might not be enough to treat only SIBO but dig deeper to discover any underlying causes of SIBO. One of the root causes can be Helicobacter Pylori infection.

What is Helicobacter Pylori (or shortly H. Pylori)?

Helicobacter Pylori is a gram-negative bacterium that resided in the stomach that may attack the stomach lining. H. pylori infection doesn't necessarily cause symptoms, but when it does, especially during acute infection, it can cause gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), or gastric/duodenal ulcers, and other symptoms such as pain (especially when the stomach is empty), bloating, frequent burping, nausea, and appetite loss. (1)

Some studies suggested that H. pylori infection is responsible for causing a wide range of other diseases; for example, it is also associated with stomach cancer. (2) However, according to Dr. Martin Blaser, a researcher in microbiology and infectious diseases, H. pylori's non-pathogenic strains also have protective effects against some diseases like asthma (3)

How can Helicobacter Pylori infection lead to SIBO?

H. pylori can lead to SIBO by lowering stomach acid levels. It produces urease, an enzyme to neutralize stomach acid. (4) Some say that it can develop because of the low stomach acid level. It can be a chicken and egg scenario. While many people believe it is a good thing because too much acid causes their reflux symptoms (heartburn, burping, indigestion), but in reality, on the contrary. We need an adequate stomach acid level to kill pathogens (so we don't end up with food poisoning) and prevent overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestines and ensure a good digestive process. Stomach acid is also needed for enzyme activation and mineral absorption. (5)

How is Helicobacter Pylori infection diagnosed?

There are some noninvasive tests:

  • stool tests that can determine if you have H. pylori, some of the advanced tests can also check for virulence factors,
  • a urea breath test,
  • a blood test to look for antibodies.

An invasive test can be when your GI doctor performs an endoscopy with biopsy, so they take several samples and send them to the lab. (6)

What happens when you are tested positive for H. pylori?

The most common conventional treatment is "Triple therapy," including antibiotics and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). This method's problem is that H. pylori has high resistance rates to some commonly used antibiotics (7). Using antibiotics can also lead to dysbiosis (by killing the good gut bugs) and potentially to SIBO. However, H. pylori need to be addressed when a person has a gastric ulcer or a higher risk for gastric cancer.

Restoring your gut microbiome is essential after treatment through diet and lifestyle changes and the right supplements. Probiotics could also be a great help with balancing gut bacteria. A study showed that probiotics used before or after the triple therapy significantly increased the eradication rate of H. pylori. (8)

Natural approaches for Helicobacter pylori infection

Natural methods can also support the elimination of H. Pylori. Before starting a natural treatment program, be sure to consult with your doctor.

Green tea

Research conducted on mice indicated that green tea might have antibacterial properties that help prevent and delay the development of Helicobacter bacteria. Consumption of green tea could prevent Helicobacter-induced gastritis. (9)

Licorice root extract

A study found that Licorice root cannot eliminate H.pylori by itself but may help prevent H. pylori from adhering to the stomach cell membranes. (10)

Probiotics

A study was done to analyze the effectiveness of probiotics used in H. Pylori treatments. "Lactobacillus casei was identified the best for H. pylori eradication rates," and multi-strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria probiotics were successfully used for reducing side effects of treatment such as diarrhea; constipation; taste disturbance, nausea/vomiting. (11)

Saccharomyces Boulardii

It is a beneficial yeast that has many positive effects on the body. It has been shown to be effective in the antibiotic therapy of H. pylori and reduce side effects such as bloating. (11)

Summary

Not everyone who is infected with Helicobacter pylori will ever experience symptoms. But in case you have digestive symptoms and a family history of stomach cancer, it is favorable to reach out to your medical provider and get tested and treated. The traditional way to eliminate H. pylori is through antibiotics. Although a huge concern is that H. pylori has antibiotic resistance, and the therapy has side effects. However, the usage of probiotics and other natural remedies may also help fight against H. pylori. Before trying more traditional treatment, see whether you can successfully cure your H. pylori infection with natural approaches.

 

*This post is only for informational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. I recommend consulting with your healthcare practitioner always before trying any treatment or dietary changes.

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Are your 6 detox pathways open?

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Opening your detox pathways is crucial for your health, and in any clearing protocol

I see many people in the SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) or even anti-Candida, parasite world ready to quickly jump on an antimicrobial/antibiotics or antifungal route and bombard their body with heavy herbs or medication to get rid of the problem as soon as possible.

I understand that we live in a fast-paced world and constantly search for instant solutions, but everything has a specific sequence. Ignoring our body’s function can cause more harm than good. One of these functions is the detoxification process.

Harmful components can get into our body from outside (exogenous sources) via radiation, heavy metals, mycotoxins, pesticides, herbicides, medications/drugs, plastics, and the list is almost endless nowadays. But the toxins can be produced inside our body (endogenous sources); they can be the byproducts of intestinal microorganisms, excess hormones, intermediary metabolites, free radicals, etc.

Over long periods, these daily contaminants may have a cumulative effect and burden our detoxification process that may eventually lead to impaired function or disease. (1)

Supporting the detox pathways (lungs, kidneys, skin, colon, liver/ gallbladder, lymphatic system) are crucial to eliminate harmful compounds and reduce any possible (die-off) symptoms. We can release toxins through respiration, sweat, urine, and stool.

detox pathways sibo candida parasite cleanse

Let's check some of these detox pathways:

THE COLON

One of the most crucial pathways in the colon or large intestine. If you are constipated, then toxins can get stuck in your body. Doing any clearing phase without opening this elimination channel is a huge mistake! You need to poop every day (better to do so at least twice a day) before doing any treatment! (2)

You can help move your bowels and flush the toxins by:

  • drinking enough fluid a day, preferably filtered water to hydrate your body (3)
  • eating fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, which can add bulk to the stool (4)
  • moving your body regularly (5)
  • using herbal remedies to stimulate the intestines such as ginger root or aloe vera leaf (6)(7)
  • doing colonics, enemas

THE LIVER & BILE FLOW

The other vital organ is your liver. The liver is the primary detox organ that filters toxins, metabolizes nutrients, breaks down fat, manages carbohydrate metabolism, produces bile, and does many more functions. (8)

Bile also has many essential roles: it helps fat digestion, controls thyroid hormones, cholesterol, motility, and moves toxins out of the liver. In addition, it has a crucial antimicrobial effect that can control the overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. (9)  Slow or blocked bile flow can be problematic as toxins cannot be transported out, leading to more die-off reactions. Several symptoms may indicate that your bile flow is diminished: reflux symptoms, gallstones, pale-colored & greasy stool, pain under the ribs on the right side, headaches, fatigue.

Various factors can contribute to poor bile flow. For example, women with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) may also have decreased bile flow. This is because bile breaks down the fat necessary to generate thyroid hormone. (10)  Other factors can be infections (parasites, virus, bacteria) (11), (12), certain medications, excess estrogen (13).

Promoting liver health and bile production can support the detox routes. The followings can support this elimination channel:

  • Milk thistle (Silymarin) has been used for centuries to protect the liver cells from damage (14)
  • Dandelion leaf and lemon balm have a positive effect on the liver due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (15)
  • Coffee enemas are used for detox for a long time by helping the body release bile (16)

detox pathways toxin removal

 

THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

The lymphatic system may also need attention, especially that it requires an extra pump to move it in contrast to the cardiovascular system. The lymphatic system keeps the balance of fluid between the blood and tissues and plays a key role in the immune system, reacting to any bacteria, toxins, or viruses. (17)

Signs that you might have lymph issues: swelling, edema ( especially: face, belly (bloating), hands, ankles), cellulite, hard nodules along neck, underarm, groin; swollen breast tissues, constipation, etc.

You can achieve better lymph flow by doing:

  • Movement: Rebounding, Yoga
  • Deep belly breathing
  • Hot & Cold showers
  • Sauna
  • Dry brushing
  • Massages

THE KIDNEYS

The kidneys filter your blood and eliminate toxins from your body through urine. Proper hydration is vital to guarantee that everything is running smoothly. Low water intake may lead to low urine volume, contributing to crystallization and eventually kidney stones in some individuals.

The Institute of Medicine recommends an average daily fluid consumption of 3.7 liters for males and 2.7 liters for women. But, of course, individual needs and habits may influence the required daily amount.

Other things such as brown seaweed extract (18), lemon juice, dandelion (19), parsley, pomegranate, and stinging nettle (20) may assist the kidneys in producing more urine, and that in turn may help get rid of waste.

 

THE LUNGS

Air pollution is real and affects all of us. According to the WHO: “ Air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year.” We inhale toxins, dust, smoke, dirt, pollen, and many kinds of pollutants. A steady stream of pollutants in the air over time may harm the respiratory system and make it difficult to breathe.

There are several ways to clean the paths to the lungs and help them get rid of toxins:

  • Getting an air purifier to improve the quality of air around you
  • Remove artificial scents such as air fresheners, scented candles – use essential oils instead
  • Exercise can help you get more oxygen to the cells, especially useful is to do some deep breathing exercise
  • Spend time regularly at the beach or visit a salt cave to inhale salty air (halotherapy) to improve lung function (21)

THE SKIN

The skin is the largest organ in the body that can mirror our internal health. Therefore, any inflammation in the body can affect the skin, causing breakouts, acne, eczema, or even more severe skin issues.  Nowadays, you can find many products designed for “skin detox” and skin issues, but they will rarely solve the root cause that might stem from the inside.

But your skin also can eliminate toxic substances via sweating. Sauna is a great way to mobilize toxins from the fat, which can be released in sweat or sent to the liver for detoxification. (22) This way, the body can eliminate chemical solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, etc. (23) You can also induce the detox process by doing facial streams. That way, you can open the pores, release toxins and dirt.

The best prevention you can do is check your current skincare products and routine and get rid of the toiletries, cosmetics that contain harmful chemicals such as parabens, BHT, phthalates, Formaldehyde, etc.

The bottom line

Your body has its detoxification and biotransformation process to get rid of toxins. There are several elimination channels, but you need to ensure that these detox pathways are open and working correctly, so nothing gets stuck in the system. This can be especially crucial if you are undergoing any clearing phase to avoid die-off symptoms.

Some herbs, techniques can help increase the effectiveness of the detoxification process, but nothing can beat a good foundation for optimal health & wellness. Hydration, a healthy diet, regular exercise, good quality sleep are the basis for a well-functioning body.

 

 

*This post is only for informational purposes; and not meant to diagnose or treat any disease. I advise consulting with your healthcare practitioner regarding any treatment options or dietary changes.

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SIBO and Thyroid dysfunctions

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Gut SIBO thyroid dysfunctions hypothyroidismAre you suffering from symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, dry skin, slow bowel movement, and even weight gain? These could also be a sign of thyroid dysfunction. (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Your thyroid is responsible for controlling your metabolic processes. If it is under-functioning (in the case of hypothyroidism), it pushes the brake pedal and slows down the body's metabolic processes. In the case of hyperthyroidism, it pushes the gas pedal and makes the process run faster.

Even though you may have thyroid dysfunction, your thyroid-like symptoms can actually stem from your gut. On the other hand, low functioning thyroid could also be a risk factor for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). It means that SIBO can lead to a hypothyroidism state, but hypothyroidism can also result in bacterial overgrowth.

The gut-thyroid connection

Some studies have found that thyroid symptoms improved after treating the gut. These gut issues can come from Helicobacter pylori (7,8), parasites (9), fungal infection (Candida) (10), SIBO (11), or food intolerances (12), etc.

Studies estimate that around 30% of people with hypothyroidism have low stomach acid (13). Stomach acid is essential to kill pathogens and prevent the overgrowth of bacteria. If this protective mechanism fails, then it can easily lead to SIBO. (14) This is why using stomach acid blockers (Proton-pump inhibitors) unnecessarily can be problematic and may also lead to SIBO. Here you can read more about the types of SIBO.

The other reason is that overgrowth of bad bacteria can lead to issues with the conversion of thyroid hormones, namely T4 (inactive form) to T3 (active form). (15) Much of the thyroid hormone is released by the thyroid gland in the inactive type known as T4 (thyroxine), but it must be converted to an active form known as T3 (triiodothyronine) for the cells to use it. (16) Around 20% of T4 can be converted to T3 in the gut by good gut bacteria.

But most of the conversion is done by the liver, which can also be sluggish for many reasons. A sluggish liver and gallbladder cannot remove hormones efficiently, such as estrogen. Elevated estrogen levels can also negatively influence the conversion rate of thyroid hormones. (17)

The other issue can be when T4 converts to reverse T3 (rT3), the inactive form. A higher level of reverse T3 can be produced if someone went through a major life event, a trauma (emotional or physical stress like a surgery), or having chronic stress (illness, inflammation). (18,19) In some cases, other factors such as diet, not just a diet high in sugars and processed foods, but also a ketogenic or very low carb diet, can cause elevated levels of rT3. (20, 21)

So making sure that you have a well-functioning gut and liver, the gallbladder is vital to ensure proper conversion of thyroid hormones.

The immune system-thyroid connection

There are 70% of the body's immune cells located in the gut. The immune response in this part of the body is called GALT, or gut-associated lymphoid tissue. The GALT contains several forms of immune cells, such as T and B cells, that detect and respond to antigens as potential threats that trigger immune system reactions.

Problems arise when any one of these intestinal barriers is weakened. When the small intestine's tight junctions loosen (in case of "leaky gut syndrome"), undigested food particles, microorganisms, toxins, or larger proteins enter the bloodstream. The immune system sees these particles as unwanted intruders and starts an inflammation process to rid of them. Leaky gut can be one of the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto-Thyroiditis, an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism. If you have a leaky gut, the immune system can keep attacking the thyroid and cause continued problems. (22, 23)

What might help to support your body?

Focusing on gut health is an essential part of any treatment process as it is also connected to your immune system and thyroid autoimmunity, and thyroid functions. But concentrating on the thyroid function is also crucial.

If you are experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction and SIBO, you can do the following steps:

  1. Do the necessary testing to find out what the issue is behind your symptoms: ask for a SIBO breath test and a full thyroid panel from your Practitioner
  2. Taking thyroid medication may help with motility and considering eliminating SIBO or other infections if present
  3. Choose a customized diet that eliminates inflammatory foods such as sugar, processed foods, gluten, refined carbohydrates, refined oils, artificial sweeteners, etc.
  4. Eat a whole food diet – including organic meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds based on your tolerance
  5. Apply lifestyle changes that help you manage your daily stress
  6. Take intestinal lining healing nutrients, boost motility

 

 

*This post is only for informational purposes; and not meant to diagnose, or treat any disease. I advise consulting with your healthcare practitioner regarding any treatment options or dietary changes.

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10 alarming SIBO symptoms (and not just IBS)

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SIBO Symptoms

SIBO symptoms?

You cannot fit into your jeans anymore because you feel so bloated? You wake up with a flat belly in the morning, and in the evening, you look like six months pregnant? These may sound a bit extreme, but they are not exceptional cases. Many clients experience constant gas or bloating, and some of them already have the popular diagnosis of IBS.

I want to emphasize that bloating is not normal, especially when it happens constantly. It is always a sign of gut inflammation and irritation and is one of the leading SIBO symptoms.

What is SIBO?

SIBO stands for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. It means an increase in the number of bacteria and/or changes in the types of bacteria present in the small intestine. SIBO symptoms and SIBO are commonly caused by an overgrowth of various bacteria that should generally be found in the large intestine. (1)

Classic SIBO symptoms are similar to IBS symptoms (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). These include abdominal pain, discomfort, cramping, gas, bloating, reflux, diarrhea, and/or constipation.

According to studies, 84 % of IBS cases are caused by SIBO. (2)

 

10 typical SIBO symptoms:

  1. You have constant bloating and gas – you may have difficulty figuring out which foods cause flatulence because you are bloated all the time, or bloating just increases as the day goes on.
  2. You have persistent diarrhea or constipation – hydrogen-dominant SIBO usually causes diarrhea, while "methane-dominant SIBO" (or precisely IMO- Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth) mostly causes constipation, but this is also not always true! Mixed types are also common. (3)
  3. Your symptoms get worse when you eat fiber – You may have heard that the daily value for fiber is around 25 grams per day on a 2,000-calorie diet for adults (4). You still try to complete this challenge, but your symptoms have gotten worse. In that case, SIBO can be the culprit. Typically, a healthy gut needs fiber to feed the good bacteria and support normal function. However, your symptoms get worse if you feed the overpopulated bacteria. 
  4. You have several food intolerances, such as gluten, lactose, fructose, and histamine intolerance. – You lack enzymes, which are needed to break down certain foods, triggering a digestive response. (5)(6)
  5. You are already diagnosed with IBS – the majority of IBS patients have SIBO symptoms – you should not be satisfied with the IBS diagnosis; dig deeper!
  6. You feel worse after eating – You get full quickly after eating a normal-sized meal, which can happen when you have low stomach acid. (7) Slow stomach emptying when the food stays in your stomach for long hours, causing nausea, can contribute to SIBO. Damage to the migrating motor complex (MMC), which is usually responsible for sweeping food and bacteria through the digestive tract and gets activated when you don’t eat, is one of the most common underlying causes of SIBO. (8)
  7. You don’t do well with probiotics—do you get abdominal pain and cramping after eating fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi? Maybe you tried random multi-strain probiotics that just made everything worse. These could also be a sign of SIBO. 
  8. You have chronic illnesses such as chronic fatigue syndrome and autoimmune diseases - Leaky gut can also be a culprit if your gut remains “leaky,” and food particles, among others, can get into your bloodstream. These will activate your immune system, which will begin attacking foreign invaders, triggering inflammation. A long-term defense can lead to damage to your organs and food intolerances, as these foreign invaders may look similar to your own body’s cells, and the immune system gets confused, overloaded, and starts attacking your tissues. (9)
  9. You suffer from skin rashes and rosacea – an impaired gut (SIBO symptoms) can also cause skin problems.
  10. You have malabsorption issues, such as fat (which can also cause floating stools) and/or vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially fat-soluble vitamins (D, E, K, A).

You can read more about SIBO symptoms and the SIBO testing options in my previous blog post.

 

This post is only for informational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. I recommend always consulting with your healthcare practitioner before trying any treatment or dietary changes.

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