Gastritis is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people globally.

It is caused by inflammation of the stomach lining due to various reasons such as bacterial infections, excessive use of alcohol, prolonged use of painkillers, stress, and other factors. The symptoms of gastritis include nausea, heartburn, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. If left untreated, gastritis can lead to more severe health issues such as stomach ulcers and even stomach cancer.

If you are suffering from gastritis, there are simple steps you can take to speed up the healing process. Here are some of these steps:.

1. Avoid Trigger Foods

One of the most important steps you can take to speed up gastritis recovery is to avoid foods that trigger inflammation in the stomach lining. These foods include spicy foods, acidic foods, fatty foods, and caffeine.

Instead, focus on consuming foods that are easy to digest such as whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein sources like fish and chicken.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for the healing process of gastritis as it helps to flush out toxins from the body.

It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, and you can also consume herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh juices to keep your body hydrated. Avoid fizzy drinks and carbonated beverages as these can trigger symptoms such as gas and bloating.

3. Manage Stress

Stress and anxiety can exacerbate gastritis symptoms, so it is important to find ways to manage stress effectively. Activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Ensuring you are getting enough sleep each night and taking regular breaks from work can also alleviate stress levels and support healing.

4. Take Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your digestive system and help to promote gut health. Taking probiotic supplements or eating probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and kefir can help to boost good bacteria in your gut and reduce inflammation.

This can be especially helpful for those with gastritis caused by bacterial infections like H. Pylori.

5. Avoid NSAIDs

NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used medications for pain relief. However, prolonged use of NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to gastritis.

If you are suffering from gastritis, it is recommended to avoid these medications or use alternative pain relief methods like hot/cold therapy or natural remedies like turmeric or ginger. Always consult with your doctor before discontinuing any medication.

6. Eat Smaller Meals Frequently

Eating smaller meals frequently throughout the day can be helpful in managing gastritis symptoms. This is because larger meals can put pressure on the stomach lining and make inflammation worse.

Opt for smaller, more frequent meals and snacks that are easy to digest. This can also help to maintain blood sugar levels and prevent symptoms like nausea and dizziness.

7. Increase Intake of Vitamin C and Zinc

Vitamin C and Zinc are essential nutrients that play a vital role in the proper function of the immune system. They can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the stomach lining.

Foods that are rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, papaya, kiwi, and strawberries. Foods high in zinc include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils. Supplements can also be taken, but always check with your doctor first.

8. Follow a Low-Fat Diet

A low-fat diet can be beneficial for those with gastritis as it reduces the amount of fat that the stomach has to digest, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Avoid fried foods, fatty meats, and dairy products that are high in fat and opt for lean protein sources like chicken and fish, and low-fat dairy products like yoghurt and cheese.

9. Don’t Smoke

Smoking can worsen gastritis symptoms and increase the risk of developing gastritis-related health issues like stomach ulcers. If you are a smoker, quitting smoking can be an important step towards the healing process of gastritis.

10. Consult with Your Doctor

If your gastritis symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult with your doctor. They can perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your gastritis and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

In some cases, medication may be necessary to relieve symptoms or treat the underlying condition.