Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining. It's one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide, often acquired during childhood.
How It Causes Disease:
H. pylori damages the protective lining of the stomach and duodenum (upper small intestine), which allows stomach acid to irritate the tissue. This can lead to:
• Gastritis – inflammation of the stomach lining
• Peptic ulcers – sores in the stomach or duodenum
• Stomach cancer – long-term infection increases risk
• MALT lymphoma – a rare type of stomach cancer
Symptoms:
• Many people have no symptoms, but when present, they may include:
• Burning stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent burping
• Unexplained weight loss
Transmission:
• Contaminated food or water
• Direct contact with saliva, vomit, or fecal matter
Diagnosis:
• Breath test (urea breath test)
• Stool antigen test
• Blood test (for antibodies
• Endoscopy with biopsy
Treatment:
• Typically treated with a combination of:
• Antibiotics (to kill the bacteria)
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (to reduce stomach acid)
• Bismuth compounds (in some cases)
Disadvantages (Harms) of H. pylori Infection:
H. pylori can cause several health problems, especially if left untreated. Main disadvantages:
Stomach Ulcers (Peptic Ulcers):
H. pylori weakens the stomach lining, allowing acid to create painful sores (ulcers) in the stomach or small intestine.
Chronic Gastritis:
Ongoing infection leads to long-term inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause pain, bloating, and indigestion.
Increased Risk of Stomach Cancer:
Long-term infection is a major risk factor for gastric (stomach) cancer and MALT lymphoma.
Digestive Issues:
Can cause nausea, burping, bloating, and early feeling of fullness.
Hard to Detect Without Testing:
Many people don’t show symptoms for years, so the damage may go unnoticed until it becomes serious.
Antibiotic Resistance:
Treating H. pylori often requires multiple antibiotics. Resistance is increasing, making treatment harder in some cases
Manage H.Pylori Through Nutritional Support:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection through nutrition involves supporting gut health, reducing inflammation, and avoiding foods that aggravate symptoms. While nutrition alone cannot cure H. pylori, it can complement medical treatment and support healing. Here are dietary guidelines to help manage H. pylori:
Foods to Include In Your Diet.
Probiotic- Rich Foods:
• Help restore healthy gut flora and may inhibit H. pylori growth.
• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut, kimchi (fermented foods)
• Miso, tempeh
High-Fiber Foods
Help reduce stomach acidity and inflammation.
• Oats, barley
• Fruits (especially berries, apples, bananas)
• Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Legumes (lentils, beans)
• Cruciferous Vegetables
• Contain Sulforaphane, shown to fight H. pylori.
• Broccoli sprouts (especially powerful)
• Kale, cabbage, cauliflower
• Green Tea & Cranberry Juice
• Have anti-H. pylori and anti-inflammatory effects (unsweetened only).
• Garlic
• Has natural antibacterial properties. Raw or lightly cooked garlic may help inhibit H. pylori.
• Honey (Especially Manuka honey)
• May have antibacterial activity against H. pylori.
FOODS TO AVOID
Alcohol & Caffeine:
Irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production.
Spicy & Fried Foods:
May worsen gastritis symptoms.
Processed Foods & Refined Sugars:
Can feed harmful bacteria and increase inflammation.
Carbonated Beverages:
Increase stomach pressure and acid reflux.
Additional Tips:
• Eat Small, Frequent Meals to reduce stomach acid buildup.
• Avoid Lying Down Right After Eating to prevent reflux.
• Stay Hydrated with water or herbal teas (like chamomile).
Important:
Always pair dietary changes with proper medical treatment (usually antibiotics and acid-suppressing drugs like PPIs) prescribed by a doctor. Nutrition supports recovery but doesn’t replace treatment.
REFERENCE:
Gotteland, M., Andrews, M., & Toledo, M. (2006). Effect of regular intake of a fermented milk containing Lactobacillus johnsonii on Helicobacter pylori infection in humans. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 21(5), 748–754.
Zhang, L., Ma, J. L., Pan, K. F., You, L., & Li, J. Y. (2014). Dietary and lifestyle factors in relation to Helicobacter pylori infection. Helicobacter, 19(4), 259–267.
Matsui, T., & Nishiyama, T. (2020). Nutrition and dietary factors in the prevention and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. Nutrients, 12(10), 3104.
Wang, X., Zhang, L., & Ma, J. (2015). Role of probiotics in Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy: A meta-analysis. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 21(14),