
Living with gastric ulcers is not easy. You have to make do with the constant and the perpetual pain. People who are foodies have a harder time still, as they are not then able to sustain their love for food with the same fervor.
Gastric ulcers are basically open sores that develop due to the strong acid of the stomach. These wounds then hurt, leading to the constant pain that is characteristic of the ulcer.
These sores may be caused due to H.Pylori infection. They also stem from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are chiefly painkillers.
You should contact the Best Gastroenterologist in Lahore when accosted with ulcers. You can also, with the approval of your doctor, partake in some home remedies as well, that can help in improving the symptoms of the disease.
Home remedies for ulcers
Garlic
A popular condiment, garlic is not just good for making butter, but it is also effective against ulcers as well. It has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, that allow it to pack a punch against the ulcer-causing bacteria.
Furthermore, garlic is also helpful for preventing the growth of H.Pylori, alongside aiding in healing.
Ginger
Jack of all trades, ginger is an excellent condiment. It aids in improving digestive functioning. It also carries gastroprotective properties as well. Furthermore, ginger is also effective against bacteria that cause the infection and hence ulcer. That is not all; ginger is also helpful against ulcers that result from the use of NSAIDs.
Hence, ginger is a holistic form of dietary treatment of ulcers.
Honey
Not only does honey taste good, but it is also very healthy. It contains anti-microbial properties, that prevent the proliferation of the bacteria. Similarly, honey also carries anti-inflammatory properties as well.
Food for treating ulcers, honey also promotes healing as well. Add to your food or drink, eat as it is, to drink in warm water, there are many ways to utilize it.
Licorice
Another spice that is good for your gut is licorice. It aids the body in defending itself against H.pylori, and thus aids in improving the symptoms of ulcers. It also puts a limit to the bacterial growth as well, greatly enabling disease management then.
It is suggested that you take licorice supplements, as they are the most effective form.
Probiotics
There is never a time when probiotics are bad for you. These good bacteria help in keeping the bad bacteria in check and optimizes the functioning of the digestive tract. Moreover, they also play a role in improving healing in your stomach.
Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, but you can also try other fermented products like kefir or supplements as well.
Turmeric
This gold treasure is also good for stomach ulcers. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a good defense against ulcers. Moreover, turmeric is also a good antioxidant, further helping the body to heal.
A popular spice in South Asia, turmeric for healing often involves putting spice in warm milk. However, as milk is not good for the ulcer, try instead to add it to your food.
Vegetables and fruits
Rich in antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables can also help improve the symptoms of ulcers. Some like green leafy vegetables are also a good source of vitamin C, a nutrient that aids in cellular repair and wound healing.
Similarly, vegetables high in vitamin A like carrots, sweet potatoes are also a good choice, as vitamin A promotes the formation of the mucus layer in the stomach, protecting the wound from becoming irritated.
Foods that are high in polyphenol, a type of antioxidant, are also good for ulcers as they promote healing. Examples of foods with polyphenols include blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, etc.
However, some fruits like orange, grapefruit is not a good choice, as the acid therein can aggravate your symptoms, meriting a visit to the Best Gastroenterologist in Islamabad then.