Gastritis: the most effective dietary supplements

Gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa. It can be acute or chronic and is often caused by an infection with Helicobacter pylori or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).​

Causes

The main cause of chronic gastritis is infection with Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium is responsible for the majority of chronic gastritis cases and can also lead to more serious diseases such as peptic (gastroduodenal) ulcers and gastric cancers. The infection develops slowly over several decades, and although most infected people have minimal inflammatory lesions, a minority may develop serious disease​​.

Classifications

Gastritis can be classified into several types based on the etiology and location of the lesions: • Acute gastritis: Sudden inflammation often due to irritants such as alcohol, NSAIDs, or a bacterial infection. • Chronic gastritis: Persistent inflammation caused mainly by H. pylori or autoimmune conditions. • Atrophic gastritis: A type of chronic gastritis in which the stomach's parietal cells are destroyed, reducing acid and intrinsic factor secretion, which is essential for vitamin B12 absorption​​.

Symptoms

The symptoms of gastritis can vary, but often include: • Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen • Nausea and vomiting • Loss of appetite • Bloating • Indigestion • Black stools (indicating gastrointestinal bleeding). Gastritis can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency, causing anemia, fatigue, and neurological problems.

Risk factors

Risk factors for developing gastritis include: • Infection with Helicobacter pylori • Prolonged use of NSAIDs • Excessive alcohol consumption • Significant stress • Autoimmune diseases (such as pernicious anemia) • Older age • Use of certain medications (such as proton pump inhibitors and metformin)​​.

Treatments

Treatment for gastritis depends on its cause: • Eradication of H. pylori: Use of a combination of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors to eliminate the infection. • Reduction of gastric acidity: Use of antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 receptor blockers to reduce inflammation. • Dietary and lifestyle modifications: Avoid irritants such as alcohol and spicy foods, stop smoking, and reduce stress​.