Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that can be found in the stomach and usually causes gastritis, stomach ulcers and other health problems. Foods that stimulate the secretion of stomach juices/acid and those that irritate the stomach should be avoided during treatment.
Here are some dietary guidelines to help you in your treatment:
Probiotics (the ‘good’ bacteria) - these are live bacteria found in some foods that help in keeping the digestive system healthy. Foods rich in probiotics include yoghurt, maziwa mala, mursik or fermented porridge. Try and eat such foods at least three times a week.
Practice food safety & hygiene - the H.pylori bacteria may be spread by eating unclean fruits and vegetables, or eating with dirty hands.
Ensure the water you use to wash your raw fruits and vegetables is clean (you can use water that has been boiled or cooled)
Ensure that you thoroughly wash any raw fruits and vegetables to be eaten
Ensure that you wash your hands every time before eating and after visiting the toilet
Ensure that your drinking water is safe and clean to drink
Small frequent meals - eat 5 or 6 small meals in a day instead of 3 big ones, to manage any symptoms you may have.
Foods to avoid:
Beverages that contain caffeine like coffee, black tea and energy drinks. Caffeine stimulates stomach movement and acid secretion in the stomach, causing more irritation
Fatty meats and fried foods; they make digestion difficult and increase the time that food stays in the stomach
Processed meats and canned foods; they have a lot of preservatives and chemical additives that can irritate the stomach and intestine
Soft drinks (soda)
Alcoholic beverages
Sour fruits like lemon, orange and pineapple
Spicy foods such as chilli, pepper, garlic, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise and stock/beef cubes
Complete your medications - ensure you finish all medications given to you by your doctor and make a follow-up visit to confirm that your infection is treated.
Let your Antara Nutritionist know if you are having any difficulties or challenges in managing your diet. Book a session with an Antara Nutritionist through the Antara App or by clicking here.