Prospects for Micronutrient Deficiencies and Nutritional Treatment During Chronic Gastritis

The most common cause of chronic gastritis is considered to be H. pylori infection, which also paves the way for peptic ulcers and stomach cancer. In the presence of chronic gastritis, a decrease in stomach acid levels or a complete loss of acidity occurs. In the case of decreased acidity in the stomach causes the stomach to become more open to germs. Microorganisms colonizing the stomach promote the formation of carcinogenic chemical compounds. Chronic gastritis is manifested by some clinical symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The primary treatment is undoubtedly nutritional therapy together with appropriate drug therapy. Diet and lifestyle factors can help to prevent the disease as well as slowing down the course of the disease and reducing clinical symptoms. Alcohol consumption and smoking can increase the risk of disease, whereas too spicy-salty foods, bitter- sour foods and caffeine-rich drinks can improve the symptoms of the disease. Meals should be consumed with small and frequently, keeping the chewing time long. In the course of chronic gastritis, vitamin B12 and vitamin C deficiency and absorption problems can be seen quite often. In order to meet the deficiency of these vitamins, it is important to add antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to the meals and increase their consumption. In cases where nutritional deficiency cannot be met, it is recommended to take vitamin supplements. Absorption of vitamin B12 takes place in the ileum. Consumption of nutrients that improve intestinal flora is recommended due to absorption problems. Consumption of probiotics has a healing effect on the intestinal flora. For this reason, it is recommended to consume foods such as probiotic yogurt, milk and dairy products, kefir. As a result, adequate and balanced nutrition affects the formation and course of the disease positively. This review focuses on the nexus between adequate nutritional interventions and chronic gastritis and particularly, how adequate and balanced diet can support during treatment of the disease.

Keywords: Nutrition; Gastritis; Helicobacter pylori; Stomach