Gastritis is a condition where the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or irritated. While common causes like spicy food, alcohol, and H. pylori infection are well-known, there are also hidden or less obvious causes of gastritis.
Hidden Causes of Gastritis
- Chronic Stress
- Long-term stress can increase stomach acid production and weaken the stomach lining, leading to gastritis.
- Stress also slows digestion, which can worsen symptoms.
- Hidden Food Allergies or Intolerances
- Foods like gluten, lactose (milk), or certain preservatives can irritate the stomach lining in sensitive individuals.
- Autoimmune Conditions
- In autoimmune gastritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach lining.
- This condition can lead to low stomach acid and vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Silent Infections
- Besides H. pylori bacteria, other infections like fungal overgrowth (Candida) or viral infections can irritate the stomach lining.
- Overuse of Painkillers (NSAIDs)
- Long-term use of over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen can damage the stomach lining without obvious early symptoms.
- Bile Reflux
- Bile, a fluid made in the liver, can sometimes flow back into the stomach, irritating its lining and causing gastritis.
- Nutrient Deficiencies
- Lack of certain nutrients, like vitamin B12, iron, or zinc, can weaken the stomach lining and affect healing.
- Excessive Acid Production
- Conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome cause the stomach to make too much acid, leading to chronic inflammation.
- Toxins and Chemicals
- Long-term exposure to chemicals, pesticides, or certain toxins in processed foods can silently irritate the stomach.
- Alcohol-Free Beverages and Artificial Sweeteners
- Sugar substitutes like aspartame or frequent intake of fizzy, carbonated drinks can irritate the stomach lining.
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
- Overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can produce gases and toxins, causing inflammation in the stomach.
- Undiagnosed Food Additives
- Chemicals in processed foods, such as MSG (monosodium glutamate), artificial colors, or preservatives, may irritate the stomach lining in sensitive people.
- Underlying Chronic Conditions
- Diseases like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or liver disorders can indirectly cause gastritis.
- Smoking
- Smoking reduces blood flow to the stomach lining, weakening its ability to heal.
Key Point
Many hidden causes of gastritis do not show symptoms right away but can lead to long-term damage if left untreated. Identifying the cause requires a careful check of diet, lifestyle, and medical history.
——————-
Guidelines for gastritis patients
Here are simple instructions for gastritis patients to manage symptoms and heal the stomach lining:
1. Eat a Gastritis-Friendly Diet
- Eat small, frequent meals: 4-5 smaller meals instead of 3 large ones. This reduces acid production.
- Avoid spicy and fried foods: Spices, oily foods, and heavy meals can irritate the stomach.
- Limit acidic foods: Avoid citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), tomatoes, and vinegar.
- Choose easy-to-digest foods: Include:
- Bananas, apples (peeled), and papaya.
- Plain rice, boiled potatoes, and oatmeal.
- Boiled or steamed vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, and spinach.
- Lean proteins like fish, chicken (boiled/grilled), and eggs.
2. Avoid Triggers
- No alcohol or smoking: These irritate the stomach lining and delay healing.
- Limit caffeine: Reduce coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks, as they increase stomach acid.
- Stay away from processed foods: Packaged, canned, or junk foods may contain preservatives that irritate the stomach.
3. Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid drinking water with meals; drink it 30 minutes before or after eating.
- Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger tea can soothe the stomach.
4. Manage Stress
- Stress can worsen gastritis. Try:
- Deep breathing exercises.
- Yoga or meditation.
- Going for walks or doing things you enjoy.
5. Avoid Painkillers (NSAIDs)
- Avoid overusing ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen, as they damage the stomach lining.
- If needed, ask your doctor for safer options.
6. Sleep Well
- Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Good sleep helps the body heal.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating; wait at least 2-3 hours.
7. Eat Slowly and Chew Well
- Chewing food properly helps digestion and reduces the workload on the stomach.
8. Home Remedies
- Aloe vera juice: Drink 1 tablespoon on an empty stomach (consult your doctor first).
- Licorice root tea: Helps soothe inflammation.
- Ginger: Add a small piece of ginger to warm water or meals for better digestion.
9. Monitor Symptoms
- Keep a food diary to note which foods worsen your symptoms. Avoid those foods.
- Watch for symptoms like nausea, pain, or bloating, and consult a doctor if they worsen.
10. Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
- Follow your doctors advice regarding medication , food and life style.
Key Tip: Healing gastritis takes time, so be patient and consistent with these habits. A healthy diet and stress-free lifestyle are the best tools for recovery.
—————————
Simple meal plan
Simple meal plan for gastritis patients to soothe the stomach and promote healing. It includes easy-to-digest foods that are gentle on the stomach lining:
Breakfast
- 1 bowl of oatmeal (cooked with water or lactose-free milk) topped with a banana or peeled apple slices.
- 1 cup of chamomile tea or warm water (no coffee or caffeinated tea).
- 1-2 boiled eggs or a small piece of steamed fish (optional for protein).
Mid-Morning Snack
- A small bowl of steamed vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
- A handful of soaked almonds (5-6 pieces).
Lunch
- 1 cup of plain white rice or boiled potatoes.
- A serving of steamed vegetables (like spinach, pumpkin, or green beans).
- Grilled or boiled chicken or fish (no spices, just a pinch of salt).
- A glass of warm water or aloe vera juice (1 tablespoon mixed in water).
Afternoon Snack
- 1 ripe banana or 1 peeled apple.
- A cup of ginger tea (small piece of fresh ginger boiled in water).
Dinner
- 1 bowl of plain rice porridge or well-cooked oats.
- Vegetable soup with carrots, squash, and a small piece of chicken or fish.
- Steamed or boiled broccoli or pumpkin.
- A cup of warm water or chamomile tea.
Before Bed
- 1 cup of warm water or warm milk (lactose-free if needed).
- A small piece of boiled potato or a few soaked almonds (optional).
General Tips
- Avoid raw vegetables as they are harder to digest. Stick to boiled or steamed vegetables.
- Eat slowly and chew food properly.
- Avoid lying down right after meals; wait at least 2-3 hours.
- Drink water between meals, not during meals.
This meal plan is designed to be low in acid, low-fat, and gentle on the stomach. It avoids common irritants like spicy, fried, or acidic foods.
Homeopathy for Gastritis Patients
Homeopathy can help treating Gastritis at any stage. A professional homeopath always addresses the actual cause of Gastritis which can be physical as well as mental.
