What is gastritis and how does it differ from a regular stomachache. What are the main causes of gastritis, including H. pylori infection and NSAID use. How can gastritis be effectively treated and managed. What lifestyle changes can help alleviate gastritis symptoms.

Understanding Gastritis: More Than Just a Stomachache

Gastritis is often misunderstood as a simple stomachache, but it’s actually a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. This distinction is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While many people with stomach discomfort don’t have gastritis, those who do experience it can face significant pain and discomfort.

Is gastritis a serious condition? While it can cause considerable discomfort, gastritis is usually manageable with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. In most cases, it doesn’t lead to long-term health issues if addressed promptly and effectively.

The Primary Culprits: H. pylori and NSAIDs

Two major factors are often responsible for causing gastritis: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

H. pylori: The Stomach’s Unwelcome Guest

H. pylori is a resilient bacterium that can survive in the stomach’s harsh, acidic environment. Often contracted during childhood, it may remain dormant for years before causing problems. When it does become active, it can burrow into the stomach lining, leading to inflammation and potentially ulcers.

How does H. pylori infection occur? The exact transmission method isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals. Poor sanitation and crowded living conditions can increase the risk of infection.

NSAIDs: A Double-Edged Sword

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including common over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen, can damage the stomach lining. While occasional use is generally safe, regular or excessive consumption can lead to gastritis.

Why do NSAIDs cause stomach problems? These medications work by inhibiting certain enzymes that protect the stomach lining. Without this protection, stomach acid can more easily irritate and inflame the stomach tissue.

Other Potential Causes of Gastritis

While H. pylori and NSAIDs are the most common culprits, several other factors can contribute to the development of gastritis:

• Severe injuries to other parts of the body
• Emotional distress, which can increase stomach acid production
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Certain medications, including potassium and iron supplements
• Rarely, autoimmune disorders or chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease

Can stress cause gastritis? While stress alone may not directly cause gastritis, it can exacerbate symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and potentially weakening the stomach’s protective mechanisms.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Gastritis

Gastritis symptoms can vary from person to person, and some individuals may not experience any noticeable signs. However, common symptoms include:

• Stomach pain or discomfort, often described as burning or gnawing
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Loss of appetite

When should you be concerned about gastritis symptoms? If you experience persistent stomach pain, especially if it’s accompanied by weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or blood in your stool, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Diagnosing Gastritis: Beyond the Symptoms

Diagnosing gastritis often involves more than just assessing symptoms. Healthcare providers may use various methods to confirm the condition and identify its underlying cause:

Endoscopy: A Window into the Stomach

An endoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach. This allows doctors to visually inspect the stomach lining for signs of inflammation or damage.

Blood Tests: Checking for H. pylori and Anemia

Blood tests can detect the presence of H. pylori antibodies, indicating current or past infection. They can also check for anemia, which may occur if gastritis leads to bleeding in the stomach.

Stool Tests: Another Way to Detect H. pylori

Stool samples can be tested for the presence of H. pylori antigens, offering another method to diagnose infection.

Is an endoscopy always necessary for diagnosing gastritis? Not always. In many cases, especially for younger patients without alarming symptoms, doctors may start treatment based on symptoms and medical history alone. However, for patients over 50 or those with concerning symptoms, an endoscopy may be recommended to rule out more serious conditions.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Gastritis

Treatment for gastritis typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause and reducing stomach acid to allow the stomach lining to heal. The approach may vary depending on the specific cause and severity of symptoms:

Antibiotics: Combating H. pylori

If H. pylori infection is detected, a course of antibiotics is usually prescribed. This often involves a combination of two antibiotics along with acid-suppressing medication, a regimen known as triple therapy.

Acid-Reducing Medications

Several types of medications can help reduce stomach acid and promote healing:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These drugs, such as omeprazole and esomeprazole, significantly reduce acid production.
• H2 blockers: Medications like ranitidine and famotidine decrease acid production less powerfully than PPIs but can be effective for milder cases.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids can provide quick relief from symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid.

How long does it take for gastritis to heal with treatment? With appropriate treatment, many people experience significant improvement within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, complete healing of the stomach lining may take several weeks to a few months.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Gastritis Recovery

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications can help manage gastritis symptoms and promote healing:

Dietary Adjustments

While healing, it may be helpful to avoid foods that can irritate the stomach or increase acid production:

• Acidic foods like citrus fruits and juices
• Spicy foods
• Chocolate
• Coffee (even decaffeinated)
• Alcohol

Stress Management

Since stress can increase stomach acid production, finding effective ways to manage stress can be beneficial. This might include practices like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.

Quitting Smoking

Smoking can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers. Quitting smoking can significantly improve gastritis symptoms and overall health.

Medication Review

If you regularly take NSAIDs or other medications that might irritate the stomach, talk to your healthcare provider about alternatives. For instance, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often easier on the stomach than aspirin or ibuprofen.

Can dietary changes alone cure gastritis? While dietary changes can significantly help manage symptoms and support healing, they may not be sufficient to cure gastritis, especially if it’s caused by H. pylori infection or long-term NSAID use. A comprehensive approach combining medical treatment and lifestyle changes is often most effective.

Potential Complications of Untreated Gastritis

While gastritis is generally treatable, leaving it unaddressed can lead to more serious health issues:

Peptic Ulcers

Chronic gastritis, especially when caused by H. pylori or long-term NSAID use, can progress to peptic ulcers. These are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine.

Stomach Bleeding

Severe or prolonged gastritis can cause the stomach lining to erode, potentially leading to bleeding. This can result in anemia if the blood loss is significant.

Increased Risk of Stomach Cancer

Long-term H. pylori infection and chronic gastritis are associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer, although this complication is relatively rare.

How can you prevent gastritis from progressing to more serious conditions? Early recognition of symptoms, prompt treatment, and adhering to recommended lifestyle changes are key to preventing complications. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can also help monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Gastritis

While mild cases of gastritis often improve with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Black, tarry stools (indicating potential gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Rapid weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent fever

Should you see a specialist for gastritis? In many cases, a primary care physician can effectively manage gastritis. However, if symptoms persist despite treatment, or if there are concerns about complications, your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist for specialized care.

Gastritis, while often uncomfortable, is a manageable condition with proper care and treatment. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and taking appropriate steps for treatment and prevention, most people can effectively overcome gastritis and maintain a healthy digestive system. Remember, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gastritis – Consumer Health News

What is gastritis?

Many people — including some doctors — use “gastritis” as a fancy word for stomachache, but the term really means “inflammation of the stomach.” Most people with sore stomachs don’t have gastritis. When inflammation does set in, it can cause considerable pain and discomfort. Fortunately, gastritis is usually easy to control. You may need to make a few lifestyle changes or get a little help from your doctor, but you don’t have to put up with the pain.

What causes gastritis?

Most people with gastritis can blame a tiny germ, namely Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium, usually caught during childhood, is basically immune to stomach acid. It can survive happily in the mucus lining of the stomach for decades, often causing no trouble at all. In some people, however, the germ burrows deep into the stomach lining, causing gastritis. In many cases, a peptic ulcer may not be far behind.

Regular doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen are another major source of gastritis. These pills all have the potential to damage the lining of the stomach. The harm is usually minor and your stomach will probably recover within a few days. But if you take too many pills, use painkillers on a daily basis, or if your stomach doesn’t heal as quickly as it should, the lining can easily become inflamed. Like H. pylori, NSAIDs are a leading cause of ulcers.

For unknown reasons, severe injuries to other parts of the body often lead to gastritis. Emotional distress can cause gastritis by boosting the flow of acid in your stomach. Other possible causes include heavy drinking, and, rarely, illnesses such as Crohn’s disease.

Anything that irritates the stomach can make an existing case of gastritis feel much worse. The list of possible offenders includes alcohol, smoking, emotional stress, and some medications, including potassium and iron supplements.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

Some people with gastritis don’t have any symptoms at all, even though the inflammation may show up clearly during tests such as an endoscopy (an examination in which the doctor slides a thin tube equipped with a tiny camera on one end down your throat to take a look at your stomach). Most people, however, will have some stomach pain and occasional indigestion. The pain may be burning or gnawing, and it usually gets worse on an empty stomach. Most people feel better after eating. Other symptoms may include bloating, nausea, and even vomiting.

These symptoms closely mimic the signs of a peptic ulcer. But since both conditions often respond to the same treatments, it isn’t always necessary to make the distinction unless the patient is elderly or there are worrisome symptoms such as weight loss or bleeding.

How is gastritis treated?

If you’re infected with H. pylori, you may need to take antibiotics to kill the germ. Whether you have gastritis or an ulcer, ridding yourself of the infection is often the key to long-term relief. Likewise, if you take regular doses of NSAIDs, you need to cut back or give them up completely.

Whatever the source of your gastritis, acid-reducing drugs can reduce your symptoms and give your stomach a chance to heal.

Whether you’re taking antibiotics, acid-blockers, or both, you may find it helpful to avoid certain foods while you’re healing. These — according to gastroenterologist Dr. Gary Gitnick, head of the digestive diseases division at University of California at Los Angeles — include acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and juices, spicy foods, and food and drink that helps produce acid, such as chocolate and coffee (even if it’s decaffeinated.) Reducing or eliminating your alcohol intake can help, too. Try to find some ways to reduce your stress: it can increase acid production. And if you smoke, stop. Smoking greatly increases the risk of ulcers.

If you’re taking any medications that can upset the stomach, your doctor may be able to offer an alternative. For instance, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally easier on the stomach than aspirin. (If you drink three or more glasses of alcohol a day, however, Tylenol can be too hard on the liver, so consult your doctor for advice. )

If your stomach pain comes back, or if it doesn’t start to fade after seven to 10 days of treatment, you may need an endoscopy to further explore the cause of your distress. Your doctor will slide a gastroscope down your throat and into your stomach. If you have an ulcer, cancer, or any other serious stomach problem, the endoscope will help the doctor find it. If you’re over 50 or show any symptoms of serious disease, your doctor will probably suggest you get an endoscopy or other tests right away.

But if your gastritis is caused by your eating or drinking habits, cigarette smoking, or other consequences of your lifestyle, you can make a few basic changes and feel much better for it.

References

Bazaldua OV and FD Schneider. Evaluation and management of dyspepsia. American Family Physician.

Gitnick, Gary, MD, Freedom from Digestive Distress, Three Rivers Press.

7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They cause a gnawing feeling or an empty sensation in the abdomen.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4. The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They cause a gnawing feeling or an empty sensation in the abdomen.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4. The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They cause a gnawing feeling or an empty sensation in the abdomen.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4. The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They cause a gnawing feeling or an empty sensation in the abdomen.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4. The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They cause a gnawing feeling or an empty sensation in the abdomen.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4. The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

6 Stomach Pains You Should Never Ignore

For most people, stomach aches are a regular part of life. But beyond the acute, temporary discomfort that we’ve all experienced, there are also several forms of abdominal pain that can be a sign of a serious health issue and shouldn’t be ignored.

That said, it can be pretty tricky to figure out if your stomach pain is the type that will resolve on its own or if you need to see your doctor. Here’s the lowdown on six types of stomach pain you don’t want to brush aside:

1. Pain that’s not going away

Any chronic stomach discomfort ― that is, persistent or recurrent pain that lasts three months or longer ― warrants a visit to a doctor or nutritionist, said Liz McMahon, a Philadelphia-based registered dietitian. This sort of discomfort includes symptoms like ongoing diarrhea, constipation, pain after eating, feeling full after just a few bites of food, bloating and gas.

These conditions could be caused by anything from irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance to something more severe like gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach doesn’t empty properly, she said.

“It’s important to see a GI doctor to rule out anything more serious like inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease, as well as just to get a proper diagnosis,” McMahon said. “Once we know what the issue is, then the registered dietitian can provide the right diet recommendations.”

LaylaBird via Getty Images

2. Pain that’s accompanied by nausea or vomiting

Stomach discomfort that comes along with nausea and vomiting can happen for a number of reasons, said Elena Ivanina, a gastroenterologist at Lenox Hill Hospital. This includes intestinal or bowel obstruction, gastrointestinal infection, inflammation, kidney stones, a ruptured ovarian cyst, an ulcer or even a heart attack.

“There are many other diagnoses to consider so it is important to speak with a physician if you have abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting,” Ivanina said.

Of course, some cases of nausea are due to overeating and food poisoning and usually pass within a day or two.

“Most people have suffered from the occasional stomach bug that lasts around 24 hours and know how that feels,” Ivanina said. But it’s time to see a doctor if the pain is unfamiliar, getting worse, isn’t going away, or is associated with symptoms like a fever or blood in the stool, she said.

3. Pain or discomfort along with blood in the stool

“Any blood coming from the mouth or anus needs to be evaluated by a doctor,” said Samantha Nazareth, a New York City-based gastroenterologist.

Keep in mind that blood in the stool won’t always be red ― it can also be black and tar-like, which is often indicative of bleeding from somewhere higher up in the digestive tract, such as the stomach. Gastrointestinal bleeding can come from a number of sources including colitis, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, a bleeding gastric ulcer and gastrointestinal cancers, Nazareth said.

But certain foods and medications can also cause tarry stools, so it’s important to think about what you’re taking and eating, said Niket Sonpal, adjunct assistant professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. These include foods like blueberries, beets, black licorice and more and medications like iron pills and bismuth medicines like Pepto-Bismol.

Fertnig via Getty Images

4. Pain that’s sudden and intense

If you’re experiencing strong and severe stomach pain, something probably isn’t right. Specific and localized pain that involves “a sharp shooting sensation that may even take your breath away, cause you to double over or hold the area, and happens in waves,” could be from an obstruction such as gallstones or kidney stones, Sonpal said.

Appendicitis is also a consideration when you’re experiencing sharp pain, Nazareth said. Often this will be the type of pain that’s worsening, comes on suddenly or isn’t going away. Severe pain can also be due to an ulcer, pancreatitis or a bile duct blockage.

“The key is to really zero in on the kind of pain that is being felt because they are indicative of different things,” Sonpal said, adding that it’s important not to delay getting help when sharp pains are involved.

5. Pain or discomfort that comes along with unexplained weight loss

“Unexpected or unintentional weight loss is always concerning and must be evaluated by a doctor whether it accompanies stomach pain or any other symptom,” Ivanina said, adding that this could be a sign of a risk for cancer, chronic pancreatitis, Crohn’s disease or other illnesses.

6. Pain or discomfort along with a fever

If you’re experiencing stomach discomfort and also have a higher body temperature than usual, this could indicate the presence of an infection. In cases like this, you’ll want to see a doctor, Sonpal said.

Ultimately, you know your body better than anyone. If you think something is wrong ― even if you’re unsure that it’s serious ― it’s always best to check in with a physician. Don’t just stomach your stomach pain.

How to prevent diseases of the gastrointestinal tract – Rossiyskaya Gazeta

According to statistics, almost 90 percent of the urban population to one degree or another suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

The length of this path, where useful substances are extracted from food, in an adult is approximately seven meters. And along its entire length – in the esophagus, stomach, intestines – troubles can lie in wait for us.

Trifle harmful and useful

One of the most common stomach diseases is chronic gastritis.Doctors see the main reason in negative factors that destroy the gastric mucosa. This is alcohol, poor quality food, drinking too hot drinks, aspirin, acids and alkalis. But not so long ago it became clear that gastritis (as, indeed, an ulcer) can be caused by our tiny roommate – a microbe called Helicobacter pylori, which lives in the stomach. This means that (as in the case of other infectious diseases) gastritis and ulcers are contagious. And they can be transmitted from person to person.

Dysbacteriosis is also a common disease today. And, what is important, it also brings other ailments along with it. And again it’s a matter of living little things. The fact is that beneficial bacteria live in our intestines, without which the digestion process simply would not take place. But taking antibiotics (or other reasons) can lead to changes in the normal composition of the microflora. As a result, digestion processes are disrupted. Poorly absorbed nutrients, vitamins … Deficiency of vitamin PP causes irritability, imbalance, depressed mood… Poor absorption of vitamin B2 is characterized by hair loss, changes in the shape of nails, seizures, stomatitis, dermatitis of the wings of the nose … Lack of vitamins B1 and B6 leads to headaches, weakness, intestinal atony, dystrophic changes in the myocardium …

It is impossible to list all the consequences of dysbiosis. After all, immunity suffers from it first of all – the main guardian of the health of our body.

When should you be alert?

The first alarm, of course, is pain.It can be sharp or dull, cramping or, on the contrary, aching.

In addition to pain, other symptoms are characteristic of gastrointestinal diseases:

– discomfort in the abdomen, for example, a feeling of fullness and heaviness, for a long time;

– nausea, heartburn or bitterness in the mouth;

– decreased appetite, aversion to any foods, especially meat;

– unnatural thirst;

– the appearance of a plaque on the tongue;

– increased gas production;

– bad breath;

– increased salivation;

– vomiting of “coffee grounds” or blood;

– isolation of blood from the rectum;

– upset stool lasting more than several weeks;

– alternation of constipation and diarrhea;

– significant decrease in body weight;

– phenomena of anemia (anemia) – weakness, increased fatigue, dizziness;

– prolonged increase in body temperature.

Almost any of these symptoms, let alone their combination, means that an urgent need to see a doctor. Self-medication is unacceptable. It is because of such independent attempts, as a rule, that the disease becomes chronic. And then it is very difficult to cope with it. Only a doctor, after a thorough examination, can determine which pathology causes certain symptoms, which, by the way, can be similar in a wide variety of gastrointestinal diseases: gastritis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, gallstone disease, irritable bowel syndrome, dysbiosis.

It all starts with food

But no matter what treatment the doctor prescribes, everything can be useless if you do not follow a certain diet. After all, our main “cauldron for food” often helps to save the food itself.

First of all, it is necessary to give up eating dry food, from spicy, salty, smoked and any other indigestible food, and also not to allow overeating, monotonous malnutrition.

Long breaks in food are harmful; it is better to eat in small portions.

Particular attention should be paid to the temperature of the food. Disorders of the digestive system are caused by both very cold and excessively hot foods and drinks.

Exclude foods and dishes that increase the secretion of the digestive system, fermentation and putrefaction in the intestines. Well, of course, those who suffer from gastrointestinal diseases should definitely give up alcohol and tobacco.

Stomach in numbers

– 0.5 liters – the volume of an empty stomach, which after eating can stretch from one to four liters;

– 2 – 4 hours the stomach spends on digesting dinner, then the food enters the small intestine, where digestion continues for another 4 – 6 hours.Then the remnants go to the large intestine and can remain there for another 15 hours;

– 3 – 4 days – the period during which the stomach completely changes its shell. Without this, gastric juice would simply dissolve our main digestive organ;

– 5 glasses of gastric juice is produced by the stomach of an adult during the day;

– 50% of Russians suffer from gastritis;

– 100 glands that produce digestive enzymes fit on one square centimeter of the gastric mucosa;

– 22,000 kilograms of food is digested on average by the human stomach during a lifetime;

– 5,000,000 of the finest villi, through which nutrients are absorbed, are located in the small intestine.

Medical myths: is it true that after eating it is better not to swim?

• Claudia Hammond
• BBC Future

July 12, 2017

Photo author, iStock

There is an opinion that you should not go into the water right after you have had a good snack. Abdominal cramps and pain may occur, and there is even a risk of drowning. But is there even a grain of truth in this?

I remember how long it was as a child, when after a snack on the beach you had to wait an hour before diving into the sea again.

Adults explained to me that swimming on a full stomach is dangerous – there may be consequences unpleasant for digestion, spasms. Where did this belief come from?

The causes of spasms are not fully understood. There is, in fact, no direct evidence that physical activity after eating can induce them.

Although it is known that after a meal, blood flow to the digestive organs increases, while swimming (as with any other physical activity) requires increased blood supply to muscle tissues.

From this it is concluded that the digestive system is receiving insufficient blood supply and digestion is impaired. Which can lead to stomach cramps or nausea.

Similar studies, however, have been carried out among professional athletes in a long distance race or triathlon. Of course, in these sports, physical activity is not comparable to that of a child splashing in the water.

Professional swimmers do not overeat before the competition, but at the same time make sure that their stomachs are not empty.After all, it takes strength to show competitive results.

Athletes can eat food directly during the competition. And if they have cramps, it is more the result of overwork than a full stomach.

Photo author, iStock

Photo caption,

You can’t swim far on an empty stomach either. You just need to choose the right food

Another thing is colic in the side, or, as the researchers say, “transient abdominal pain associated with physical activity.”Their nature is not fully understood.

Australian sports physician Darren Morton, who is studying the causes of stabbing pain in the side during exercise, found that professional swimmers are particularly prone to colic.

A seizure can be triggered by a sharp load after a hearty lunch, even if it was 1-2 hours before the start of the competition.

There is good news as well. It turns out that with age, colic in the side occurs less and less.

However, there is still one explanation as to why after active exercises in the side there is pain.Morton noticed that colic often started after consuming fruit concentrate.

The juice causes bloating, resulting in pressure on the parietal peritoneum or the anterior abdominal wall. These are very sensitive areas – perhaps that is why the pain occurs.

But is there a risk of drowning if spasms or colic appear? In shallow water, of course, you can wait out the attack by stepping on the bottom with your feet, or lie on your back.

Only such a situation seems dangerous when the child is at a depth, he has nothing to grab onto, or he does not hold on to the water very well at all.But this is risky in any case, regardless of the meal.

If you look at the statistics, many children do die in water bodies every year. In China, for example, drowning is the leading cause of child accident deaths. However, food intake is not considered an additional risk factor.

For example, according to American scientists, the main causes of death on the water are: inability to swim, lack of fencing around the pools and inadequate supervision by adults.

Photo author, iStock

Caption,

There are other reasons why it is better not to swim right after lunch

But in adults, as you might guess, the main cause of accidents on the water is alcohol consumption.

Notwithstanding the above, there are other reasons not to let your child swim immediately after lunch. The afternoon is usually the hottest, and it is easier to avoid burns and overheating in the shade.

How, however, to explain to a child who immediately after eating breaks into water that this can be dangerous? You can, of course, talk about the risk of drowning.Although we now know that science does not confirm this connection.

Legal information. This article is for general information only and should not be construed as a substitute for the advice of a physician or other healthcare professional. The BBC is not responsible for any diagnosis made by the reader based on the materials of the site. The BBC is not responsible for the content of other sites, links to which are present on this page, and also does not recommend commercial products or services mentioned on these sites.If you are concerned about your health condition, see your doctor.

To read the original of this article in English, visit BBC Future .

8 signals of the body that can warn of stomach ulcers

About 500,000 new cases of peptic ulcer disease are registered every day in the world. Stomach ulcer, fortunately, is treated, but if diagnosed late, it significantly impairs the quality of life. However, if you listen to the signals that the body gives, you can recognize peptic ulcer disease at an early stage and avoid serious health consequences.

Bright Side will tell you about the first signs of a stomach ulcer. Read and save!

1. Heartburn

Heartburn occurs in everyone, and often there is nothing serious behind it. But if you began to experience a burning sensation and pain behind the breastbone constantly, then you should worry, because regular heartburn is one of the main symptoms of the development of peptic ulcer disease.

2. Incessant thirst

Unquenchable thirst and dry mouth are a sign of several diseases at once, including stomach ulcers.If you notice that you are drinking much more water than before, then it’s time to make an appointment with your doctor.

3. Attacks of sharp pain

Stomach problems are felt primarily by acute abdominal pain. Cuts in the lower abdomen or under the ribs are no longer a “bell”, but a whole “bell”, having heard which you should immediately undergo a medical examination.

4. Disorders of the intestines

It is also worth thinking about visiting the hospital if you suffer from frequent bloating and constipation: they signal a malfunction in the intestines, which, in turn, may be a consequence of the onset of peptic ulcer disease.

5. Feeling of heaviness after eating

An ulcer that develops directly in the stomach, makes itself felt with heaviness and painful sensations in the abdomen after each meal. If you notice similar symptoms in yourself, contact your gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

6. Pain on an “empty stomach”

Sometimes the feeling of hunger is accompanied by pain that subsides after eating – this has happened to everyone at least once. But when this happens regularly, it’s worth considering whether it’s time to take care of your own health.

7. Nausea

Another sign of a developing ulcer is nausea. If you feel nauseous for several days without any reason, and even more so if nausea is followed by vomiting, do not hesitate – go to the hospital.

8. Weight loss

If you suddenly lost weight in a short time, do not rush to rejoice. It is better to get tested, because sudden weight loss is a bad signal and may mean just a stomach ulcer.

We wish none of these symptoms bother you.Be healthy!

For digestion | EUROAPTIEKA

The modern world full of stress negatively affects the human nervous system, sometimes even destroying it. In some, this contributes to the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Stress disrupts appetite – in most cases, people eat irregularly or eat too much food.

Hosam Abu Meri, gastroenterologist of the Diagnostic Center at Veselības center 4, tells about the main symptoms and consequences caused by unhealthy diet and their solutions.

Burning and acidic sensation in the mouth indicates the so-called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This means that the contents of the stomach (acid) re-enters the esophagus, and in some cases even reaches the pharynx. The most common causes of this disease are associated with an increased level of acidity in the stomach and hernia of the esophagus, which forces the contents of the stomach to go back.

Exacerbation of the disease can occur due to irregular food intake, stress and variable weather conditions.As a result, the following symptoms occur: a burning sensation in the sternum, possibly an acidic sensation in the mouth, unpleasant breathing, and a burning sensation in the throat, which sometimes causes a cough. If over time it becomes difficult for the patient to swallow, this means that severe inflammation or narrowing of the distal third of the esophagus has occurred in the esophagus. This is an alarm signal, and the patient should definitely consult a gastroenterologist and undergo a gastroscopy. Treatment of GERD must first of all begin with regular meals: you need to eat slowly four to five times a day in small portions; carbonated drinks, coffee, sour drinks, including kefir and yogurt, are prohibited.Consumption of spicy foods (spices, garlic, peppers, onions) and pickled foods is undesirable; you should also not eat buns and fresh honey. If the state of health does not improve, and the burning sensation does not go away, you should consult with a gastroenterologist about the initiation of drug therapy to reduce the acidity of the stomach.

Bloating and cramping pain may be associated with flatulence in the colon. The most common causes of bloating are stress and psychological disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.However, this disease can also be caused by parasites, foods that may be associated with intolerance (milk, flour products, sweets, etc.), dysbiosis (imbalance of the intestinal microflora), especially after using antibiotics. Bloating can be associated with even more serious bowel conditions such as colitis. If the person does not have an upset stomach, and bloating is most often observed after a meal or in the afternoon, then most likely it is due to everyday foods.It is recommended to consult with a nutritionist and revise your menu, eat more regularly, do not overeat, do not eat foods containing sugar, do not use fresh milk and kefir, and reduce the consumption of flour products. The condition improves the course of treatment with probiotics. If probiotics do not have the desired effect, you should contact a gastroenterologist and undergo the necessary examinations to clarify the causes of bloating.

WHAT TO DO IF EATED TOO MUCH?

Very often the cause of digestive upset is not a specific food, but the amount and fat content of the food eaten.Food should be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with a small amount of food at a time. This allows the pancreas to work evenly without overloading. Digestion can also be improved by drinking a glass of lightly carbonated water with meals. To avoid feeling heavy, you should move a little between meals.

If you still overeat and feel a heavy stomach, over-the-counter medications can improve your digestion. For example, enzymes containing lipase and amylase will help break down indigestible substances.Naturally, on the following days, you should balance the diet – eat small portions and drink more fluids.

It should also be remembered that before using any medication, including an over-the-counter medication, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist, and carefully read the instructions for use of the medicinal product.

WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER FOR GOOD FEELING

• Don’t go hungry! If you skip a meal, then give free rein to your previously suppressed appetite and eat more than necessary.
• About an hour before a hearty meal, eat a slice of whole grain bread, a handful of nuts, a banana and some cheese, and a glass of juice. This will help curb your appetite.
• Did you know that the following combination causes appetite: sweet + salty + fat? Thus, if at the table you try all the dishes in a hurry, after a short period of time you will want to eat again.
• Drink a glass of water at the start of your meal! Sometimes it seems that you are hungry, but in fact the body signals thirst.
• Oriental people recommend eating as much at one meal as can fit on two palms.
• Put a lot of fresh vegetable salad on a plate first to get the fiber it needs.
• Avoid foods that make you feel uncomfortable after consuming them. For example, peas and beans contain all the nutrients and a lot of fiber. However, if you rarely include them in your daily menu, your stomach can rebel after consuming a large portion of these foods.
• After you have eaten peas or beans, lengthen the pause until your next meal.
• Eat slowly, take your time! The slower you eat, the faster you will feel full. This reduces the risk of overeating.
• You should eat no more than once every two to three hours. If your hand reaches for food, fruits or fresh vegetables are your best bet. It is also good to have clean or mineral water, tea, tomato juice on hand. Drinking carbonated drinks can cause indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness.

Information prepared by Ilze Apine,

Public relations specialist of the health center Veselības centrs 4.

90,000 Can I drink juice on an empty stomach? | MPBK Ochakovo

Can

There are no restrictions for healthy people. Natural juices are almost as healthy as freshly picked fruits and vegetables. For example, berry juices reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular pathology, apple and grape juices help improve memory and good nerve conduction, and plum juice reduces anxiety.

However, for those with sensitive intestinal mucosa, it is better not to drink acidic juices, such as pomegranate or orange, on an empty stomach. And if you really want to, dilute them with water so that there is no discomfort in your stomach.

Try vegetable mixes such as Goodini. Vegetable mixture with herbs ”from tomatoes, carrots, pumpkin, beets, zucchini and paprika. This drink is rich in lycopene, β-carotene and vitamin C, and also helps to comply with the recommendation of the World Health Organization.She believes that an adult needs to eat 400 grams of different vegetables, fruits and berries every day. They can be either fresh or juiced.

But with diseases of the stomach and esophagus – be careful

In people with stomach diseases, juice drunk on an empty stomach can provoke heartburn and other unpleasant symptoms. It is worth eating before drinking the juice for people with an acute phase of gastritis, ulcers, pancreatitis, enteritis and colitis.Juice on an empty stomach can increase its acidity and provoke discomfort.

Remember: a doctor prescribes an individual diet for diseases.

The best time for juice

Juice taken on an empty stomach stimulates the formation of stomach acid in healthy people. In this regard, the best time for juice is 30 minutes before a meal, in which case the digestive system will be in a state of full readiness by the beginning of the meal.

At the same time, there are several types of juice that nutritionists recommend drinking with breakfast – orange, grapefruit and carrot.The acids they contain help the body digest food, especially animal proteins.

And our hearty juices “MachoGaspacho” are good as independent dishes, for example, instead of a snack.

Doctors reported the danger of overeating tangerines :: Society :: RBK

Society,

26 Nov 2019, 05:50
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Photo: Vitaly Timkiv / RIA Novosti

Without harm to health, a person can eat four tangerines daily.This was reported to RIA Novosti by Tamara Pruntseva, a nutritionist at the Healthy and Sports Nutrition Center.

The nutritionist called the tradition of eating tangerines useful for the New Year holidays, in the absence of contraindications, allergy to citrus fruits or individual intolerance.

Overeating of tangerines can cause the development of allergic reactions. In addition, the abuse of the fruit can provoke bloating or exacerbation of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract due to the large amount of fiber contained in tangerines.Pruntseva recommended eating tangerines until five o’clock in the evening, while they should not be eaten on an empty stomach.

Nutritionist explained the harm of overeating sweets

According to her, when used correctly, tangerines can strengthen the immune system and promote the elimination of toxins from the body, as well as improve mood.In addition, according to nutritionist Elena Tikhomirova, tangerines are a low-calorie product with a high content of vitamins, including vitamin C. abdominal vacuum “. It looks very strange, but what effect does it have? Popular questions about the GO.TUT.BY vacuum are answered by a health-improving physical education specialist, trainer Ulyana Prusak (who is against everyone doing this exercise).

Photo from Ulyana’s personal archive

Ulyana is a trainer by education. For more than four years, she has been practicing abdominal vacuum herself every morning and talks about her experience on Instagram. When the girl worked in the gym, she saw how the exercise was performed by performing athletes – both men and women. I decided to study the issue. Many have written that a vacuum is an exercise to flatten the belly. In fact, the trainer explains, the vacuum came from yoga (drawing in the abdomen while holding the breath) – and it is not done for the very press that you see in the form of cubes, but for the work of the abdominal muscles, which are not visually noticeable.

What is it?

The vacuum of the abdomen is an exercise that is based on the retraction (movement) of the abdomen and holding the breath. It works, the specialist explains, with the transverse muscle, which “in the gym cannot be reached by any exercise – neither twisting nor lifting the legs.”

Some of Ulyana’s subscribers perform this exercise in order to “start” the work of the gastrointestinal tract in the morning: in their experience, not only centimeters from the waist go away, but also problems with constipation.

Photo from Ulyana’s personal archive. Exercise “vacuum of the abdomen”

How is the exercise performed?

Before you suck in your stomach, you need to take several deep breaths and exhalations to saturate the blood with oxygen. On the third exhalation, you need to pull the stomach towards you (according to the sensations, explains Ulyana, how to press the stomach to the spine) and hold your breath in this position. For how long – everything is individual: it can be 5 or 35 seconds. Ulyana draws attention to the fact that vacuum is a state of hypoxia (lack of oxygen), which must be regulated by the health of the practitioner.

The number of approaches is also regulated depending on individual capabilities: Ulyana, for example, every morning does 3 approaches of the classic vacuum and 3 – “vacuum wave” (which moves the stomach back and forth while holding the breath). But a one-time approach does not make sense – the load is too small. Another important condition for keeping the transverse abdominal muscle taut is consistency: even a vacation break can nullify the result.

Photo from Ulyana’s personal archive

When is the abdominal vacuum done?

It is important to perform it on an empty stomach, the most comfortable time – after waking up in the morning.“We must be sure that there will be no discomfort due to undigested food,” explains Ulyana. If you do the exercise on an empty stomach, you may experience a gag reflex.

How to choose a pose?

It can be performed lying on your back, standing on all fours, or in an upright position. The most comfortable starting position is lying on your back, it is in this position that you feel like “the stomach sticks to the spine.” Further, the position can be chosen depending on your comfort – this does not affect the effectiveness of the vacuum.

Photo from Ulyana’s personal archive. Exercise “vacuum of the abdomen”

When shouldn’t a stomach vacuum be done?

Ulyana notes that this exercise is not for everyone and it is quite dangerous. If there is a disease (for example, associated with the stomach or intestines) – it is better to study separately whether it is possible to practice vacuum in your case and consult a doctor. Also, it cannot be done during pregnancy and in the postpartum recovery period without the permission of the doctor.

Ulyana advises against making a vacuum during menstruation: “I have not found a reliable scientific source that claimed that a woman can do a vacuum during this period.