Some info on Gastritis

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Gastritis Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, leading to bloating, belching, cramps, nausea and pain; vomiting and diarrhea may also occur. The cause of gastritis is either too much or too little gastric-acid production. Excess acid, which is more often found in younger people, is generally most irritating to an empty stomach. Insufficient gastric acid is more common in the elderly and causes pain when the stomach is full. Whatever the cause, gastritis takes two forms: acute and chronic. The acute type develops suddenly and is made worse by stress, alcohol, nicotine and spicy, rich foods. Bacteria, notably Helicobacter pylori, may also be a contributing factor. Left untreated, acute gastritis can become chronic, resulting in milder symptoms with recurrent flare-ups. Chronic gastritis can lead to

decreased digestive function, increased risk of stomach cancer and ulcers. Diet changes, herbal teas and stress reduction can lessen pain and aid healing. In healthy people, a layer of mucus protects the stomach from harsh gastric acid. If an area of this protective film is damaged, gastric juices can irritate the stomach lining and eventually cause ulcers. To prevent excessive gastric-acid production, avoid acidic foods, including citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes, soda and coffee. Also eliminate sugary foods, alcohol, aspirin and antibiotics, which upset the natural balance of bacteria in teh stomach. Limit meats and fats, which are harder to digest and require more stomach acid. Mineral-rich foods that buffer acidity, such as carrots, nuts and green, leafy vegetables, are best. Pamper your stomach by eating light, easy-to-digest, soothing foods, including soups, oatmeal and

steamed vegetables. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, coffee, black tea and spicy or sugary foods, which can trigger symptoms. In addition, learn relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi and meditation, to help cope with stress. Homeopathic remedies, herbal teas and natural healing methods can relieve symptoms. If gastric symptoms don't subside within a few days, if they continually recur or if they arise after taking aspirin, antibiotics or medications containing cortisone, consult a doctor. Also, see a physician if you ever vomit blood or pass black stools, which may contain dried blood. Stress, anxiety and nervous tension may cause or exacerbate gastritis. Relaxation techniques that focus on deep abdominal breathing can help soothe your mind and your stomach. You can learn biofeedback, meditation, yoga and many other methods through adult-education classes. If

you suffer from acute gastritis, try fasting for the first few days after the onset of symptoms. Start by consuming only liquids, such as herbal teas, soothing juices and water. Gradually begin eating easy-to-digest foods, including oatmeal, rice porridge, scrambled eggs, steamed carrots, broths and mashed potatoes. To prevent any excess strain on your stomach, eat slowly, chewing each bite thoroughly; this begins the digestion process, requiring less acid production in your stomach. Slowly add fruits and other vegetables to your diet. Green cabbage is rich in glutamic acid, an important amino acid used by the digestive tract to regenerate mucosal cells. Drink 2-4 cups of cabbage juice every day for 1 week. Or buy capsules that contain glutamic acid at health-food stores. Acute Gastritis Remedies for acute gastritis alleviate the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, bloating,

indigestion, pain and diarrhea, as well as prevent the development of chronic gastritis. Teas are the ideal treatment. Chamomile soothes pain and relieves inflammation. It also fights bacteria that may cause ulcers. Peppermint relieves vomiting, nausea and bloating. It also helps prevent fermentation in the stomach. Lemon balm alleviates cramps, pain and a nervous stomach and boosts a poor appetite. Licorice helps increase the production of mucus in the stomach, prevents the development of chronic gastritis and heals ulcers. Calendula, marshmallow, licorice, St. 's wort, hops and wild yam reduce the inflammation that causes the pain associated with gastritis, as well as Chrohn's disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Insufficient Gastric Acid Remedies for insufficient gastric acid focus on increasing the production of gastric juices to promote

digestion and ease pain. Centaury contains bitter principles that increase the production of gastric acid and stimulate the appetite. Gentian root stimulates the secretion of gastric juices, which aids digestion, and is a strengthening, healthful tonic. Iceland moss contains mucins that coat irritated, inflamed mucus membranes in the stomach with a protective film. Hydrochloric acid supplements can be taken with meals to promote digestion. Dandelion, burdock, Oregon grape and dock contain digestive bitters. Suzi What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered. health/ http://suziesgoats.wholefoodfarmacy.com/ http://360./suziesgoats

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