Helicobacter Pylori: Tiny Bacteria That Cause Big Problems

Have you ever heard of Helicobacter Pylori? If not, you’re not alone. Many people are unaware that this tiny bacterium is actually responsible for causing a myriad of health problems. And believe it or not, it’s estimated that up to 50% of the world’s population is infected with H. Pylori. In this blog post, we’ll explore what H. Pylori is, how it can affect your health, and what you can do to avoid getting infected.

What is Helicobacter Pylori?

Helicobacter Pylori, also known as H. Pylori, is a type of bacterium that can infect the stomach and small intestine. It’s spiral-shaped, which allows it to burrow deep into the mucus lining of the stomach, making it difficult to treat. H. Pylori infections are typically contracted through contaminated food or water, and can also be passed from person to person through saliva or fecal matter.

How can H. Pylori affect your health?

H. Pylori infections are often asymptomatic, meaning that many people who are infected don’t experience any symptoms at all. However, in some cases, H. Pylori can cause stomach ulcers, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), and even stomach cancer. Additionally, researchers have linked H. Pylori infections to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

How can you avoid getting infected with H. Pylori?

There are several ways to avoid getting infected with H. Pylori:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

• Cook food thoroughly, especially meats and seafood.

• Avoid sharing utensils, cups, or other items with people who have a H. Pylori infection.

• Drink bottled water instead of tap water when traveling to other countries.

• Test and treat family members who have H. Pylori infections to prevent reinfection.

What can you do if you suspect you have an H. Pylori infection?

If you suspect you have an H. Pylori infection, it’s important to see someone for a diagnosis. A doctor is usually your point of contact, and a urea breath test is considered the ‘gold standard’ for assessment. Your doctor may also recommend an endoscopy if you are struggling with pain and reflux.

Pharmaceutical interventions

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and acid-reducing medications to help clear the infection. Antibiotic therapy usually uses three or four different types of antibiotics due to the antibiotic resistant mechanisms h. pylori has. Please note the effectiveness of these antibiotics are controversial, and there are long term effects of using such intensive interventions in the gastrointestinal microbiome. There are studies that find quadruble antibiotic therapy can completely wipe out certain species in the microbiome which negatively affects the individual. I am of the mindset that if there is a natural alternative that you can try before antibiotics, it is so worthwhile to protect the long term health of the microbiome and also the individual.

Natural interventions

Strain specific probiotics can enhance the effects of antibiotics and/or natural antimicrobials and are usually used alongside the chosen intervention.

Biofilm breakers are also used alongside natural antimicrobials.

Antimicrobials such as pomegranate, myrrh and goldenseal have some great evidence to inhibit h.pylori replication and these are my favourite herbs to use in clinic.

H. pylori makes urease which is a buffer to the stomach acid which is how it can survive for so long. Interventions used to increase stomach pH is beneficial and I personally like using zinc, kefir and broccoli sprouts.

Now that you know more about Helicobacter Pylori, you can take steps to protect yourself from this tiny but troublesome bacterium. Remember to practice good hygiene, cook your food thoroughly, and avoid sharing items with people who are infected. And if you suspect you have an H. Pylori infection, don’t hesitate to see a doctor for a diagnosis, and work with your naturopath to eradicate the bacteria. With the right treatment, you can get rid of the infection and protect your overall health.

Do you have H pyori? Book a consultation with me!