Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be very uncomfortable and, in some cases, painful. Usually this is caused by infection, certain medications, stress, or an autoimmune response in the body.
Treatment of gastritis focuses on attacking the underlying cause and removing the irritant or offending substance. Then some simple lifestyle changes and the use of antacid drugs that is usually all that is needed to reduce symptoms.
However, if care is not taken and proper treatment is not followed, this condition could cause a stomach ulcer. Therefore, it is very important to know the habits that can make it worse. We tell you what they are.
5 habits that can make gastritis worse
Most of these habits can be followed without much effort and it is advisable to get rid of bad habits gradually.
1. Drink a little water
The first of the habits that can make gastritis worse is drinking little water. The water has a neutral pH and it seems drinking between 1 and 2 liters of water a day could control the acidity levels of the gastric juiceswhich helps control the symptoms of gastritis.
2. Being very stressed
Daily stress, anxiety and accumulated tension can negatively affect the health of the stomach and cause inflammation of the gastric mucosa. This, unlike other gastritis, is not caused by bacteria, but by an accumulation of negative emotions.
Too much stress and anxiety can cause stomach acids to be released. Therefore, it is advisable to practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation, as they can help a lot in reducing this state.
In a sense, everyone knows about stress and experiences it every day in different forms and degrees. In small doses, stress can actually be beneficial. However, if it occurs at high levels, it can affect physical and mental functioning.
3. Smoking
Smoking is one of the main lifestyle habits that can make gastritis worse. In relation to that, a study published in Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology note that Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor in the development of various stomach-related problems.as it can decrease the healing capacity of the gastric mucosa and cause gastric ulcers.
4. Consume alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake is another of the most common causes of gastritis. Indeed, alcohol contains some toxins that can irritate the stomach lining and cause inflammation when consumed in excess.
A study published in National Center for Biotechnology Information suggests that alcohol abuse could atrophy the gastric mucosa. Also, this condition can last as long as your excessive drinking lasts.
5. Unhealthy diet
Finally, you must know that there are certain foods and other substances that must be avoided to reduce or prevent the symptoms of gastritis. While diet and nutrition play an important role in overall health, they also help prevention or control of some of the discomforts associated with gastritis.
Among the foods to be eliminated, spicy foods, fatty, refined and fried foods stand out, as well as dairy products rich in fat, such as cream or milk cream, since they activate the secretion of gastric juice, worsening the condition.
It’s also important avoid any food that may be toxic or irritating to the stomach, for example, garlic powder, pepper, tomato or acidic drinks such as coffee. Some vegetables can even cause irritation and make symptoms worse.
More tips for managing gastritis
As we have already mentioned, a healthy and balanced diet, as well as a good healthy lifestyle, can keep some diseases such as gastritis at bay.
On the other hand, in addition to changing certain habits, it is necessary to learn to recognize which of them are the ones that trigger the onset of the disease. Don’t forget that if you have any symptoms that do not go away or last longer than usual, it is advisable to consult the gastroenterologist do the corresponding examinations and start the appropriate treatment as appropriate.
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