Have you heard of the bacteria Helicobacter pylori? Perhaps not, as awareness of this pathogen is far from widespread, despite it being responsible for many cases of stomach ache. Indeed, around 50% of us may be harbouring this germ which is believed to be the principal cause of gastro-duodenal ulcers.
For a long time, it was thought that no bacteria could survive the acidity of the stomach. However in 1982, two Australian scientists were surprised to discover that the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) was indeed able to withstand the effects of gastric juices. This bacteria forms part of the Helicobacter genus because of its external, corkscrew-like, helicoidal structure. The term pylori refers to the pylorus where the stomach meets the small intestine.
The scientists who discovered Helicobacter pylori in the human stomach were actually awarded the Nobel prize for physiology and medicine in 2005. Following this major advance, further research has expanded our understanding of the mechanism responsible for its development. Its very specific structure means it is able to penetrate the stomach’s mucus and mucosa. Once there, H. pylori produces significant amounts of an ammonia-producing enzyme called urease, which enables it to survive in the gastric mucosa.
As well as secreting urease, Helicobacter pylori produces toxins which damage the stomach, weakening the gastric mucosa and leaving it vulnerable to attack by gastric juices. They may also increase gastric acid production which encourages the development of chronic inflammation in the stomach, manifesting in frequent stomach pain.
In some cases, the gastritis caused by H. pylori can result in a gastroduodenal ulcer, a deep lesion in the stomach wall (gastric ulcer) or intestinal wall (duodenal ulcer). Helicobacter pylori infection is now considered the leading cause of gastroduodenal ulcers. In rare cases, it can contribute to the development of stomach cancer (gastric adenocarcinoma).
It’s estimated that half the world’s population may be infected by the bacteria H. pylori. Though contamination happens more frequently in childhood, Helicobacter pylori infection can remain asymptomatic and undiscovered for many years. A significant number of people are thus living with this bacteria without realising it.
It can be difficult to diagnoseHelicobacter pylori infection - medical tests are needed to confirm the presence and growth of this bacteria. There are, however, certain warning signs such as persistent, increasingly frequent stomach aches, abdominal pain accompanied by bloating, and nausea with loss of appetite.
Helicobacter pylori is normally treated with antacid-based triple therapy, aimed at reducing gastric acid production and limiting damage to the gastric mucosa. This tritherapy usually includes a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and two antibiotics. In some cases, quadri-therapy with a PPI and three antibiotics may be used. Unfortunately, more and more cases of antibiotic resistance are being reported. The bacteria H. pylori is mutating and becoming resistant to antibiotics.
In view of this growing antibiotic resistance, a number of studies have highlighted the benefits of natural treatments for combatting gastritis and ulcers. Widely-studied, liquorice extractHelicobacter pylori: mastic gum. This natural gum has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for stomach aches and as an antiseptic. Studies show that this extract may inhibit or kill certain bacteria, including H. pylori.
The above-mentioned liquorice extract and mastic gum can also be used in a preventive capacity. Their activity is particularly useful in helping to protect the gastric mucosa from attack by H. pylori. Improving digestive transit may also be beneficial for prevention given that good digestive transit encourages the elimination of toxins including those produced by Helicobacter pylori. Alongside a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, certain dietary supplements can help to maintain good digestive transit. One such supplement is psyllium seed husk, which contains a large quantity of soluble fibre, and probiotics, microorganisms recognised for their beneficial effects on the digestive system.
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12 Days
Great product. Fast and efficient service.
Sheba Kelleher
17 Days
Easy to order, good and fast delivery to Finland, the box was intact and the content exactly what I ordered. I am satisfied. Product prices are on moderate level. Thank you Supersmart!
VIITANEN Esa
22 Days
Thanks to team who met what I need such as trust, good packages and fast delivery. Regarding products it is too early to give a comment. After using for a while, I gonna update my review. I had bought supplements mostly for autism.
Fatma Coltu
22 Days
efficient eqsy to use
Mr G Birtles
28 Days
You are so quick in processing orders and prompt in shipping too. Very easy to do business with you. Thanks a lot for your great service.
JOAQUIN Epifanio
34 Days
I am merely judging the delivery system, which was flawless. It wouldn't make any sense to comment on the efficacy of the supplements, since that is only possible on a statistical basis. Even if something doesn't improve, that doesn't have to mean that the supplement doesn't work, since one doesn't know how it might have worsened without the supplement and the opposite might also apply, since many symptoms are psychosomatic and the supplement might provide a placebo effect.
Roger De Backer
43 Days
Perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Patrick
44 Days
Magnesium and Zinc Orotate are top supplements. Highly recommend!
Kristjan
55 Days
Nothing to complain. Delivers everything fast, attentive to their regular customers. Best experience.
FABIO I.
58 Days
Possibility to enjoy a variety of high quality suppléments. Fast delivery Good packaging Clear information and website
Vov Oo
60 Days
Efficient ordering and delivery. Happy with products. I order fairly regularly. Reliable
Gill Lee
60 Days
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ABDULQADER Jehad
64 Days
Prompt and reliable.
MIFSUD Joseph
71 Days
I don't use the word great; everything was OK; it is maybe too early to expect an effect of the supplements
STAEHLI C
77 Days
Well,It was yesterday I started using it but I can tell the supplement is working perfect,will definitely still give best comments once I'm done using it ...
ANTHONY Oluwaseun Ugwu