Gastritis is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the stomach lining; it can be a sudden and occasional (acute) or even more serious disease that lasts over time (chronic). Read on to learn how to cure it.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treatments for Acute Gastritis
The acute form has three main causes and you should first define its origin so that you can take the appropriate steps to treat it.
Step 1. Limit your intake of certain pain relieving medications
If you are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - such as aspirin or ibuprofen - to manage pain caused by a disease, talk to your doctor about your problem and try to resolve the two conditions separately (gastric discomfort from disease). basically).
- If you are injured or have undergone surgery and need to take painkillers, ask your doctor to prescribe alternative active ingredients to NSAIDs; taking too much of these medicines can cause ulcers and reduce the production of prostaglandins that protect the stomach.
- If possible, you should completely avoid taking medications and instead choose natural anti-inflammatories, such as chamomile, ginger and turmeric.
- Don't think about healing yourself. While it is possible to take over-the-counter medications to manage the symptoms of acute gastritis, know that they only relieve pain temporarily. Your doctor may prescribe other products to reduce and / or neutralize the secretion of acids and more effectively protect the mucous membranes of the stomach.
Step 2. Avoid drinking too much alcohol
- In particular, never drink them on an empty stomach, as they can increase the chances of ulcers.
- Limit yourself to one drink. When you are at social events or parties, allow yourself to have only one drink per evening and dilute it with carbonated water; spirits erode the gastric lining and increase acid production.
Step 3. Learn to manage stress
People with high levels of emotional tension can suffer from nervous gastritis, an acute form of the disease, which in some cases can even cause superficial bleeding.
- Stay away from people, places or situations that create anxiety; stress increases the production of gastric acids and wears down the mucous membranes of the stomach.
- Get regular physical activity; movement stimulates the production of endorphins, also known as "the hormones of happiness".
- Meditate. Nowadays you can find a wide variety of information, products and courses related to this practice almost everywhere; But if it's not your style, just take a few minutes each day to enjoy a personal moment of peace and quiet.
- Try aromatherapy. The essential oils of angelica, mint and lavender are just some of the ones you can try to better manage stress.
Part 2 of 3: Treatments for Chronic Gastritis
Step 1. See your doctor to diagnose this form of gastritis
In most cases, the disorder is caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which can be detected through an endoscopic biopsy. Treatment for this type of pathology is based on taking antibiotics and antacids.
- Most cases of chronic gastritis are associated with prolonged use of NSAIDs, chronic biliary reflux, diseases such as HIV / AIDS, Crohn's disease and many others.
- First, undergo medical treatments to cure the underlying disease and then ask the doctor how to manage chronic gastritis.
Part 3 of 3: Eating Properly for Gastritis
Nutrition is the main factor in the treatment of the two forms of gastritis (acute and chronic); not only does it avoid abdominal discomfort in the short term, but it protects the digestive tract in the long run.
Step 1. Avoid spicy foods
Strong spices and seasonings stimulate the production of stomach acids and irritate the stomach.
Step 2. Add tapioca and oats to your diet
Both protect the gastric mucosa thanks to the content of mucilage, a thick and sticky substance produced by some plants.
Step 3. Choose low-fat dairy products
Whole milk derivatives can trigger inflammation and a burning sensation.
- Many people drink milk for the purpose of fighting stomach acid, but the relief is only temporary and the symptoms return even more intense.
- Choose lean products and consume them in moderation.
Step 4. Drink the carrot juice
This vegetable has natural anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties; thanks to the high concentration of beta-carotene and fibers, it can neutralize excess acids and regulate their secretion. You can eat carrots raw or cooked, either way they help you manage your symptoms.
Step 5. Stay away from caffeine
Decaffeinated sodas and coffees can also damage gastrointestinal mucous membranes, causing gastritis and ulcers.
Replace these drinks with water and natural (non-citrus) fruit juices; the sugary apple and guanabana are able to protect and promote the regeneration of the gastric lining
Step 6. Avoid fast food and refined foods
They slow down digestion and trigger an abundant secretion of gastric acids.
- Prepare meals at home by incorporating lots of green leafy vegetables.
- Avocado and pumpkin are able to neutralize stomach acids and at the same time protect the mucous membranes by reducing inflammation; use them in your recipes.
- Eat the rice and use the cooking water! This cereal has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help the stomach and intestines. A home remedy for gastritis is to slowly boil a handful of rice and then drink the remaining water three times a day.
Step 7. Sweeten the drinks with honey
This precious nutrient is able to promote the healing of gastric ulcers and fight burning; use it to sweeten all the drinks you consume during the day.
