When the bacterium Helicobacter pylori infects the stomach, it causes gastric inflammation and increases the risk of stomach cancer. A team of researchers have been able to explain characteristic changes which occur inside the gastric glands during an H. pylori infection. The researchers discovered a novel mechanism which, by restricting cell division in healthy stomach tissue, protects the stomach against cancerous changes. An inflammation of the stomach, however, deactivates this mechanism, enabling cells to grow in an uncontrolled manner. The researchers' findings, which have been published in Nature Communications, may herald a new treatment target in stomach cancer.
Affecting about half the world's population, Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common causes of chronic bacterial infections in humans. H. pylori can lead to inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) and increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. As the protective lining inside the stomach is constantly exposed to stomach acid, it has to regenerate completely every few weeks, while maintaining both its structure and composition despite the high cellular turnover. The infection disrupts complex interactions between different cell types.
Using state-of-the art imaging and single-cell sequencing technologies, the researchers were able to visualise and isolate specific gastric gland cells, which they then examined. In order to minimise the need for animal models, they also developed special organ-like tissue microstructures known as organoids. The researchers used these microscopic stomachs to recreate many of the gastric glands' characteristics. This strategy enabled them to study the effects of various signals on stem cells which are found inside the gastric glands.
Natural treatments for H. pylori
Researchers have conducted a range of studies on natural approaches to treating H. pylori infections. Eight potential natural treatments include:
1. Honey
Honey is known for its antibacterial properties, and people have used it as a medicine since ancient times.
One study showed that Manuka honey suppressed the growth of H. pylori in gastric epithelial cells. Other studies have demonstrated that honey has other anti-H. pylori properties, but more animal studies and clinical trials are needed to assess honey’s efficiency as a complementary or alternative treatment.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is an herbal remedy used to treat a variety of illnesses, including:
- detoxification
- digestive health
- wound-healing
In one study, the gel from inside the leaves of an aloe plant was effective in both inhibiting growth of and killing H. pylori strains, even those that were drug-resistant in a laboratory environment. This suggests that aloe vera could be effective against H. pylori infection when used in combination with antibiotics.
3. Broccoli sprout
Sulforaphane, a compound found abundantly in broccoli sprout, has been shown to kill H. pylori. Studies performed both in test tubes and on animal and human subjects have demonstrated the favourable effects of sulforaphane against H. pylori bacteria. Broccoli sprout also decreased gastric inflammation in H. pylori-infected mice.
4. Milk
Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein found in both human and cow’s milk, has shown inhibitory activity against H. pylori. One study used a combination of antibiotics and lactoferrin from cow’s milk, which resulted in a 100% eradication rate of H. pylori in 150 affected people.
Also, a compound called melanoidin appears to inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria. Melanoidin is a compound formed by a chemical reaction between the sugar lactose and a protein called casein in milk and dairy products. Research has shown that melanoidin suppresses H. pylori colonization in both mice and humans.
5. Lemongrass oil
People must not ingest essential oils. Instead, they can inhale them and use them as part of an aromatherapy approach. According to studies carried out on humans and animals, lemongrass essential oil inhibits the growth of H. pylori.
In an animal study, the density of H. pylori colonization in the stomach was significantly reduced compared to mice not treated with lemongrass oil.
6. Green tea
Green tea is one of the healthiest and most widely consumed beverages in the world. It contains many antioxidants and nutrients.
In an animal study, green tea decreased both the number of bacteria and the inflammation score of H. pylori-infected mice. However, researchers found that mice that received green tea before infection achieved better results.
7. Probiotics
According to the nutritional research, probiotics are live microorganisms that offer health benefits to people. Interest in probiotics as a treatment for H. pylori is increasing. There are numerous types of probiotics. Many people use Bifidobacterium, which is found in dairy and fermented products, to prevent gastrointestinal infection. Research has shown that Bifidobacterium exerts its effect against H. pylori by competing with the bacteria to stick to the lining of the stomach.
8. Phototherapy
Research suggests that H. pylori bacteria are sensitive to ultraviolet light. During phototherapy, an ultraviolet light source illuminates the whole stomach. Phototherapy has been shown to reduce the number of bacteria in the stomach significantly. However, the bacteria will repopulate a few days after illumination. While phototherapy is not a complete fix, it may have the potential to become an effective treatment against H. pylori, particularly for people who cannot take antibiotics.
Symptoms of H. pylori infection may include:
- abdominal pain
- burning in the abdomen
- bloating
- nausea
- reflux
- loss of appetite
Anyone who is worried about symptoms should contact their doctor. Do not replace antibiotic treatments for H. pylori with natural treatments without discussing with a doctor.