Probiotic use may be helpful in balancing the amount of good and bad bacteria in your stomach, placing strain on the formation of the bacteria that causes most ulcers. Stomach ulcers are mostly the result of a bacterial infection that will require a prescription of antibiotics to kill the infection. Probiotics are mostly used to help improve regularity, reduce gas and bloating and may be useful in treating stomach ulcers. Probiotics should not be used to treat or prevent any medical condition without first talking with your doctor.
Ulcers
Ulcers primarily occur in the esophagus, the stomach or the opening of the small intestines. Medical professionals used to think that ulcers were the result of eating highly acidic or spicy foods and high stress levels, although it is now known that ulcers are primarily caused by a bacterial infection, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Ulcers are open sores that are found in the lining of your digestive system that can cause pain, burning and discomfort when your stomach is empty or shortly after eating.
Probiotic Therapy
Probiotics are microorganisms that help your digestive tract maintain regularity. Probiotics are considered good bacteria that are naturally found in your stomach, small intestines and colon. Probiotics are naturally found in yogurt but may also be acquired through supplements. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that taking five to 10 billion colony forming units daily may help prevent and treat ulcers in your stomach. Taking probiotics may help suppress the harmful bacteria that are causing the ulcer.
Other Causes
Not all ulcers are the result of a bacterial infection. It's possible to develop stomach ulcers from the use of tobacco, whether smoked or chewed. Ulcers can also form from the regular use of certain pain relievers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. The overuse of alcohol can also wear away the lining of your intestines, exposing the soft tissue, causing an ulcer. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to treat your condition if the ulcers are caused by the above reasons.
Dietary Changes
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that certain dietary changes, along with taking a probiotic supplement, may help treat stomach ulcers. Eat foods that contain flavonoids, such as onions, garlic, tea, apples and celery. Eat foods that are high in antioxidants, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, squash, cherries and blueberries. Reduce the amount of red meat you eat and increase lean meats, such as fish or lean white meat.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Peptic ulcer; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; September 2009
- FamilyDoctor.org; Ulcers: What You Can Do to Heal Your Ulcer; January 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Probiotics: Important for a healthy diet?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.; April 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Peptic ulcer; January 2011
