Healing Peptic Ulcers through Natural Therapies and Yoga

Peptic ulcers are common and affect around 10% of the population. They occur when the mucosal lining of the stomach and duodenum are damaged, resulting in lesions that penetrate the muscularis mucosae. This can lead to gastric ulcers (GU) or duodenal ulcers (DU), with the latter being the most common. Peptic ulcers can be caused by H. pylori infection, poor dietary habits, food poisonings, contaminated water, and long-stored beverages. Additionally, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause overproduction of gastric acid and increase the risk of peptic ulcers. Smoking, excessive caffeine consumption, and alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers, particularly among the elderly. Chronic stress can also be a significant cause of peptic ulcers. The symptoms of peptic ulcers can vary depending on the type of ulcer. For duodenal ulcers, individuals may experience burning and gnawing sensations in the upper and middle abdomen after eating, which can last for 1 to 3 hours. Chronic ulcers may cause severe abdominal pain, blood in vomiting, and significant weight loss. In gastric ulcers, individuals may feel a burning sensation in the upper abdomen and pain in the upper abdomen (epigastric region) that can be relieved by eating and taking antacids. H. pylori infection can also cause antral gastritis. TREATMENT OPTIONS Naturopathy and yoga can be effective in treating peptic ulcers. According to naturopathic principles, abnormal blood and lymph composition and the accumulation of toxins weaken the immune system and allow bacterial infections to take over, leading to diseases. Naturopathy and yoga can improve the healing process by addressing diet and nutrition, as well as stress management through yoga and mind-body techniques such as meditation and deep relaxation. DIET AND NUTRITION

• Avoid dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and sugar. Coffee, including decaf, should be avoided because of its irritating oils. Identify and eliminate any food allergens.
• Incorporate sulfur-containing foods, such as garlic, onions, broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower, into your diet. Sulfur is a precursor to glutathione, which provides antioxidant protection to the gastric mucosa.
• Eat bananas, which contain potassium, and plantains for additional benefits.
• Butter milk can help normalize bowel flora and inhibit H. pylori.
• Include Vitamin C-rich foods, such as melons, citrus fruits (orange, pineapple, strawberry), broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes, to decrease nitrosamines linked to stomach cancer and inhibit H. pylori.
• Include zinc-rich foods, such as nuts, seeds, cereals, whole grains, and soybean, to enhance healing. Vitamin E, A, and glutamine can also promote ulcer healing. Cabbage juice (1 quart per day) is high in glutamine, but may initially be irritating.

NATUROPATHY TREATMENTS

• Mud pack to eyes and to the abdomen for 20-30 minutes can help in relaxing nervous system and smoothens the gastric functions
• Cold hip bath for 20 minutes can play a comprehensive role in treating the peptic ulcer and other gastric irritations
• Cold abdominal compress / pack for 30-45 minutes can play an important role in treating ulcer, as the person with gastric ulcer can easily apply this and keep it in his daily work without interruption
• Full mud bath for 45 minutes can help in removing toxins from the body
• Massage to abdomen helps to maintain the diminished and hyper peristaltic movements
• Therapeutic massage can help to alleviate stress and increase the sense of well-being

YOGA

• Performing asanas can help in improving blood circulations to the digestive organ, which leads to the increase in the recovery
• Pranayamas like Nadhishuddhi pranayama (Alternate nostril breathing), Shitali, Shitakari (cooling pranayamas) can help to reduce the abdominal burning sensations, pain and enhance the recovery by relieving acute and chronic stress.

Peptic ulcer can be efficiently managed with the naturopathy and Yoga, without having any side – effects. The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes and covers topics related to health, fitness, alternative medicine, and nutrition. However, it is important to note that this information should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is highly recommended that if you have any concerns or questions about your health, you consult with a qualified physician or other healthcare professional.