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Zinc Dosage for Stomach Ulcer Healing

Jul 25, 2011 | By Carol Sarao

Peptic ulcers -- sores in the lining of your stomach or upper part of your small intestine -- are a result of digestive fluids damaging the gastrointestinal tract's protective membrane. Symptoms include gnawing, burning or aching sensations that can occur from your navel all the way up your breastbone. Depending on the cause, your doctor may treat your ulcer with antibiotics or acid-reducing medications. Natural healers sometimes recommend zinc to help heal stomach ulcers. Although clinical research is limited, several studies support the beneficial effect of zinc on ulcers. Consult your doctor before taking zinc supplements.

Ulcer Features

Peptic ulcers in the stomach are called gastric ulcers. Along with stomach pain, gastric ulcers can cause nausea, bloating and loss of appetite. Symptoms are usually worse when your stomach is empty; eating something, or taking antacids, may bring temporary relief. Ulcers are often caused by the H. pylori bacteria; another common cause is the use of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- or NSAIDS -- such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Ulcers can sometimes perforate the wall of your stomach, causing peritonitis. If you experience sudden, sharp stomach pain that doesn't go away, have tarry or bloody stools, or vomit blood or a dark, grainy substance that resembles coffee grounds, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse advises seeking emergency medical care.

Zinc Features

Zinc -- an essential trace mineral -- performs many important body functions, including assisting in the reproduction of cells, maintaining good vision and enhancing the immune system. Zinc is also a potent antioxidant, helping to neutralize destructive free radicals and possibly helping to prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Zinc can promote wound healing, as even a mild deficiency can interfere with recovery from injuries, notes Blue Shield Complementary and Alternative Health, adding that high doses of supplemental zinc has accelerated the healing of gastric ulcers in studies and may help eliminate H. pylori as well. Zinc isn't stored or produced in the body; you must obtain it through diet. Good sources of zinc include shellfish, meat, eggs, legumes such as lima beans, tofu, cheese and wheat germ.

Research

In a clinical trial published in 1996 in "Journal of Rheumatology," researchers found that zinc acexamate given concurrently with NSAID drugs, such as naproxen or ketoprofen, prevented gastric damage in patients with a history of peptic ulcers. After 28 days of taking the NSAIDS with the zinc acexamate -- also known as zinc citrate -- 88 percent of the patients had normal endoscopies. Noting that zinc reduced the risk of ulcers by 92 percent as compared to placebo, the team concluded that zinc acexamate was effective and well-tolerated for the prevention of NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Usage and Considerations

According to BSCAH, dosages between 25 and 50 mg a day may be given for gastric ulcers. Noting that zinc can cause copper deficiency, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises taking 1 to 2 mg of copper daily if you take supplemental zinc for prolonged periods of time. Although zinc sulfate is the least expensive form, it is also least easily absorbed and may cause digestive upsets; UMMC advises zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, zinc acetate and zinc glycerate. Possible side effects of zinc include digestive disturbances, mouth irritation and unpleasant taste in the mouth. Zinc nasal spray has been reported to cause loss of smell, which may be irreversible. Taking zinc with food may help you avoid stomach upsets. Zinc can interact with prescription medications; you should not take it at the same time as iron or calcium supplements. Consult your doctor before taking supplementary zinc.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jul 25, 2011

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