Treatment Options for Helicobacter Pylori Infection

What is Helicobacter pylori?

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that infects the stomach lining. It is a major cause of peptic ulcers and gastritis, and it can increase the risk of stomach cancer. This bacteria burrows through the stomach lining, causing inflammation and reducing the production of hydrochloric acid (stomach acid) by the stomach cells.

Symptoms of Helicobacter pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori infection can cause a variety of digestive symptoms, including:

Stomach pain
Gas
Bloating
Acid reflux
Heartburn
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation and diarrhea

In some cases, Helicobacter pylori can also lead to mental and cognitive issues, such as anxiety, depression, and brain fog.

How Helicobacter pylori Affects Digestion

Helicobacter pylori disrupts the digestive process in several ways:

Reduced stomach acid production: By lowering stomach acid levels, Helicobacter pylori prevents the activation of enzymes that break down proteins, making it harder to digest proteins.
Delayed gastric emptying: Food stays in the stomach for longer, leading to a feeling of indigestion and a “rock” sensation under the chest.
Reduced pancreatic and bile enzyme release: With lower stomach acid levels, the message to release digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile is not delivered properly, leading to reduced enzyme activity downstream.
Impaired small intestine function: The enzymes produced by intestinal cells are also affected, further compromising digestion.
Slowed motility: Helicobacter pylori can slow down the movement of food through the digestive tract, contributing to constipation.

Overall, Helicobacter pylori infection can affect every step of the digestive process, making it crucial to address this issue properly.

Dietary Tips for Managing Helicobacter pylori

While dietary changes alone cannot eradicate Helicobacter pylori , they can help alleviate symptoms and support digestion during and after treatment. Here are some tips:

1. Choose Cooked, Moist, and Soft Foods

Opt for cooked, moist, and soft foods, as they are easier to digest. This includes:

Proteins cooked through simmering, boiling, steaming, or slow cooking (e.g., shredded chicken soup, baked fish, ground beef with vegetables)
Moist and tender meats, rather than dry or chewy ones
Cooked vegetables, rather than raw

2. Include Broccoli, Cabbage, and Cauliflower

These cruciferous vegetables contain compounds that can help kill Helicobacter pylori naturally. Incorporate them into your diet, preferably cooked (steamed or sautéed) or juiced. Broccoli sprouts are particularly beneficial. However, if they cause bloating, skip cauliflower, which can be harder to digest.

3. Eat Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant-rich Foods

Since Helicobacter pylori can cause inflammation, it’s essential to consume foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These include:

Berries (blueberries, pomegranates, cranberries, red grapes)
Turmeric (try golden milk or turmeric tea)
Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, tuna, trout, anchovies, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds)

4. Incorporate Digestion-boosting Foods

Several plant foods can help improve digestion, which is crucial when dealing with Helicobacter pylori . Examples include:

Ginger
Arugula
Radishes
Turnips and turnip greens
Beets and beet greens
Kale
Lettuce
Parsley
Cilantro
Artichoke hearts

Cook or steam these vegetables for better tolerance and effectiveness.

Avoid raw apple cider vinegar, hydrochloric acid capsules, or high-dose digestive bitters: These can cause the Helicobacter pylori bacteria to burrow deeper into the stomach lining, making it harder to eradicate. Use them only after successful treatment.
Dietary changes alone won’t eradicate Helicobacter pylori : While these tips can help alleviate symptoms and support digestion, you’ll need a dedicated treatment plan (either conventional antibiotics or herbal protocols) to eliminate the bacteria.

Testing for Helicobacter pylori

To determine if you have an Helicobacter pylori infection, several testing options are available:

1. Blood Test

A blood test detects antibodies produced by your immune system in response to Helicobacter pylori . However, it cannot distinguish between an active or past infection.

2. Breath Test

During a breath test, you exhale into a bag before and after consuming a solution containing urea. If Helicobacter pylori is present, it will break down the urea, releasing carbon dioxide, which is measured in your breath samples.

3. Endoscopy

An endoscopy allows for direct visualization and biopsy of the stomach lining. While invasive, it may be recommended if structural imaging is required for other reasons.

4. Stool Test (GI Map)

The GI Map is a comprehensive stool test that detects Helicobacter pylori antigens using advanced molecular techniques. It also provides information on virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, and other markers related to digestive health.

Your healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate testing method based on your specific circumstances.

Conventional Treatment for Helicobacter pylori

Conventional treatment for Helicobacter pylori typically involves a combination of at least two antibiotics, along with other medications:

Antibiotics: Two or more antibiotics are prescribed to prevent the bacteria from developing resistance to a single antibiotic.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid production, but their long-term use can lead to various side effects, such as nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, and kidney disease.
Bismuth: This medication coats and protects the stomach lining from acid, but it can also exert direct antibacterial effects against Helicobacter pylori .
H2 Blockers: These histamine blockers (e.g., ranitidine) may be prescribed if PPIs cannot be used, as they also reduce stomach acid production.

Functional Medicine Approach to Helicobacter pylori

The functional medicine approach to treating Helicobacter pylori is often preferred due to its effectiveness and reduced side effects. It typically involves a combination of the following:

1. Probiotics

Specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Saccharomyces boulardii (a yeast-based probiotic), have been shown to help fight Helicobacter pylori infections.

2. Herbal and Botanical Supplements

Several herbs and botanical extracts have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help eradicate Helicobacter pylori and heal the stomach lining:

Mastic gum
Black cumin seed
Berberine
Olive leaf
Licorice
Bismuth
Zinc carnosine
Curcumin
Cranberry
Garlic

3. Digestive Support

To address the low stomach acid and maldigestion associated with Helicobacter pylori , supplements like betaine hydrochloride (HCl) and digestive enzymes can be helpful.

4. Diet

While no specific diet is universally recommended for Helicobacter pylori , a well-balanced, whole-foods diet rich in probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, berries, and cruciferous vegetables can be beneficial. Caffeine, carbonated beverages, and spicy foods should be avoided.

5. Dental Hygiene

Good dental hygiene is essential, as the mouth can serve as a reservoir for Helicobacter pylori . Mouthwashes containing clove oil can be supportive.

6. Source of Exposure

Identifying and addressing the source of exposure (e.g., saliva, feces, or vaginal secretions) is crucial to prevent reinfection.

Helicobacter pylori treatment options

Helicobacter pylori is a common and potentially serious bacterial infection that can significantly impact digestive health and overall well-being. Proper testing, treatment, and dietary management are essential for successful eradication and symptom relief.

While conventional treatments with antibiotics are available, a functional medicine approach incorporating probiotics, herbal supplements, and dietary modifications may offer a more comprehensive alternative.