Gastritis is an inflammatory disease of the stomach that affects a large number of people. There are several types of gastritis, and the diagnosis is made by gastroscopy. The disease is treated with drugs that block the secretion of gastric acid, but also with an appropriate diet that eases the condition of the disease.
According to the types of gastritis, we divide it into:
Erosive gastritis, manifested by bleeding; it is caused by drugs, alcohol, stress and Helicobacter pylori infection. This is the most common form of gastritis.
Hypertrophic gastritis (hyperplasia of the stomach) is a consequence of the multiplication of gastric glands.
Corrosive gastritis occurs as a result of accidental or intentional intake of strong acids or alkalis, which usually damage the esophagus as well.
Phlegmonous gastritis occurs as a result of an infection, most often streptococcal.
According to the types of gastritis, we divide it into:
Erosive gastritis, manifested by bleeding; it is caused by drugs, alcohol, stress and Helicobacter pylori infection. This is the most common form of gastritis.
Hypertrophic gastritis (hyperplasia of the stomach) is a consequence of the multiplication of gastric glands.
Corrosive gastritis occurs as a result of accidental or intentional intake of strong acids or alkalis, which usually damage the esophagus as well.
Phlegmonous gastritis occurs as a result of an infection, most often streptococcal.
How does food affect gastritis?
Adjusting the diet is an important step in the treatment of the gastric mucosa and preventing the development of inflammation or its return. Therefore, gastritis sufferers are advised to introduce changes in the menu in order to improve the condition.
Acute gastritis and stomach ulcer symptoms usually disappear within a few weeks after the irritants that cause the inflammation and erosion of the stomach are removed. Studies show that other steps to reduce gastritis and stomach ulcers include limiting or eliminating the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, reducing stress, and boosting immunity.
Certain foods can worsen gastritis symptoms and sufferers should avoid them to control symptoms. These include very acidic foods, spicy or hot foods, alcohol, caffeine and processed foods. On the other hand, foods rich in fiber, antioxidants like vitamin C, electrolytes like magnesium and calcium, vitamin B12, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve digestive health.
Reactions to food in people with gastritis vary from person to person, so nutritionists advise trying an elimination protocol to find out which foods cause difficulties.
In addition, it is advised to follow the following guidelines:
Eat smaller meals
Instead of eating 3 large meals a day, it is advised to eat 5 smaller meals spread throughout the day. Smaller but more frequent meals improve circulation in the stomach, which speeds up healing.
Avoid eating before going to bed
Plan your last meal 3-4 hours before going to bed so that you have enough time to digest your food before going to bed.
Drink enough fluids
Water helps reduce the symptoms of gastritis. It is recommended to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day to reduce the symptoms of gastritis. Unlike milk, alcohol and caffeine, water does not stimulate the production of stomach acid and does not cause disturbances.
Reduce stress
The latest views of the medical profession are that stress alone cannot cause gastritis, but stress certainly worsens the symptoms of the disease. Stress can increase the production of stomach acid and stimulate inflammatory processes, and in addition, stress lowers immune function and contributes to other digestive problems.
Quit smoking and reduce exposure to toxins
Smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle are strong risk factors for the development of gastritis. Smoking slows down the healing of the gastric mucosa, increases the frequency of ulcer recurrence and increases the likelihood of developing infections.
Take nutritional supplements that ease ailments
Dietary supplements that reduce problems caused by gastritis are omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, vitamin C, vitamin B12 and a quality multivitamin.
What foods to avoid?Avoid foods that aggravate the condition of gastritis sufferers:
Citrus fruits and juices – Citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit, are rich in natural acids that can be beneficial – however, for people with gastritis, they can cause pain. Research shows that citrus fruits stimulate the release of chemical neurotransmitters that cause pain in people with gastritis.
Tomatoes – Tomatoes are similar to citrus in that they are acidic and can irritate a sensitive stomach. It is advised to avoid tomatoes and all products containing them.
Milk and milk products – Although it was previously believed that milk contributes to the reduction of problems with gastritis, this thesis has been rejected and sufferers are advised to avoid milk and milk products. Experts believe that calcium from milk and amino acids (proteins) actually stimulate the release of more acid production and can worsen gastritis symptoms.
Alcohol – Excess alcohol can corrode the stomach lining and worsen inflammation, so it is advised to avoid it.
Coffee – Coffee worsens the symptoms of gastritis, even in situations where decaffeinated coffee is involved. Coffee is acidic and will increase the burning sensation in the stomach caused by gastritis.
Spicy food – spicy and very hot food will not cause gastritis, but they can increase the symptoms. Here we include hot peppers, chili, cayenne, red / black pepper, curry and hot sauce.
Foods that cause allergies and inflammation – Avoid refined and processed foods, such as white bread, pasta, products with added sugar, cultured meats, trans fats, refined vegetable oils, fried foods and pasteurized dairy products.What foods to avoid?
Avoid foods that aggravate the condition of gastritis sufferers:
Citrus fruits and juices – Citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit, are rich in natural acids that can be beneficial – however, for people with gastritis, they can cause pain. Research shows that citrus fruits stimulate the release of chemical neurotransmitters that cause pain in people with gastritis.
Tomatoes – Tomatoes are similar to citrus in that they are acidic and can irritate a sensitive stomach. It is advised to avoid tomatoes and all products containing them.
Milk and milk products – Although it was previously believed that milk contributes to the reduction of problems with gastritis, this thesis has been rejected and sufferers are advised to avoid milk and milk products. Experts believe that calcium from milk and amino acids (proteins) actually stimulate the release of more acid production and can worsen gastritis symptoms.
Alcohol – Excess alcohol can corrode the stomach lining and worsen inflammation, so it is advised to avoid it.
Coffee – Coffee worsens the symptoms of gastritis, even in situations where decaffeinated coffee is involved. Coffee is acidic and will increase the burning sensation in the stomach caused by gastritis.
Spicy food – spicy and very hot food will not cause gastritis, but they can increase the symptoms. Here we include hot peppers, chili, cayenne, red / black pepper, curry and hot sauce.
Foods that cause allergies and inflammation – Avoid refined and processed foods, such as white bread, pasta, products with added sugar, cultured meats, trans fats, refined vegetable oils, fried foods and pasteurized dairy products.
Which food must be included in the diet?Foods that help relieve discomfort and reduce the symptoms of gastritis are as follows:
Foods rich in antioxidants – Studies have shown that foods rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins A and C and flavonoids (found in berries) can reduce inflammatory processes in the intestines and reduce disorders. Fresh fruits, herbs / spices and vegetables that are particularly good for gastritis include onions, garlic, pumpkin, peppers, leafy greens, artichokes, asparagus, celery, fennel, sea vegetables, ginger, turmeric, cruciferous vegetables, berries, apples and cranberries .
Probiotic foods – Studies confirm that probiotic intake helps control Helicobacter pylori bacteria and treats gastrointestinal infections that cause gastritis. Probiotic foods such as pickled vegetables, kombucha, yogurt and kefir (for those who can tolerate dairy products) ease the condition of the disease: they reduce inflammatory processes, regulate bowel function, help with reactions to allergies and intolerances, etc.
Garlic – The consumption of raw or cooked garlic has long been known as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal ailments. Garlic has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. Experts believe that garlic may even help reduce the number of H. pylori bacteria and prevent the growth of other harmful bacteria in the microbiome.
Foods with a high fiber content – A diet rich in fiber has long been known for its positive effects on gastritis and other GI tract complaints. Some of the best sources of fiber are nuts like almonds, seeds like chia or flax, soaked legumes/beans and sprouted whole grains like oats, quinoa, wild rice, buckwheat and amaranth.
Healthy fats and proteins – Clean proteins help the recovery of the intestinal wall and treat problems of the digestive tract that can cause inflammation. Excellent sources of protein are meat, fish, eggs. Salmon and sardines are particularly welcome fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce gastritis difficulties. Other healthy fats to include in your diet include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado, butter and ghee.
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