Gastritis is a condition where the stomach lining becomes inflamed for a number of causes. The condition can be caused by heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged use of medication like aspirin and ibuprofen, and even bacterial infection, among other things. Gastritis is often characterized by severe stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. Depending on the cause, gastritis is commonly acute or chronic.
Acute gastritis is often associated with excessive alcohol intake and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and mefenamic acid hinder the production of the stomach's lining leading to peptic ulcers. Chronic gastritis, on the other hand, can be caused by Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that inhabits the stomach and the first section of the small intestine. Chronic gastritis can also bring heartburn, a painful condition where the acid reaches the esophagus, resulting in chest pains.
Mild cases of gastritis can be treated with over-the-counter antacids that neutralize the acid in the stomach to provide pain relief. In more severe cases, drugs that inhibit acid production in the stomach like cimetidine and ranitidine are used. Proton pump inhibitors are also used to temporarily turn off the pump the acid in the stomach.
Those who have mild gastritis and wish to fix it while it is still at its early stages and those who would like to manage their gastritis without becoming too dependent on medication can try out different alternative methods to alleviate the pain or minimize attacks. Those with gastritis would do well to change some eating habits, like sticking to having regular meals as opposed to eating in between meals. Fatty food and dairy product intake should be kept to a minimum; otherwise, one can stick to low or no-fat products. Caffeine can aggravate acidity, so coffee, tea, cola, and chocolates should be avoided as well.
Other things to pass up on are citrus fruits, juices, and vinegar, among other sour food, plus spicy and oily food. Deep fried food, salted, and pickled food should be avoided too. Needless to say, alcohol intake and food that cause gas like cabbages should be limited.
Those with gastritis should eat healthy food like salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, and can take carrot juice or coconut water instead of citrus juices or caffeinated beverages. To make up for the nutrition gaps one might have, taking food supplements are recommended.
With a proper diet and not overindulging in food and alcohol, people with gastritis can avoid the painful attacks without depending too much on medication. Those who take NSAIDs should consult their doctors for alternatives, or additional medication for stomach lining protection. Also, gastritis can be brought about by stress so those with the condition can try stress relief activities like exercise and yoga.
By Christopher JA Wang
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4325310
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