Could H Pylori be contributing to your GERD?

What is H. pylori?

A spiral-shaped bacteria that can occupy the stomach.

Can be found in contaminated food, water and spread through sharing drinks or kissing.

Once inside the body, it can survive the acidic environment of the stomach for decades and impact long-term digestive health.

This bacteria increases risk for stomach cancer.

Prevalence of H. pylori

H. pylori is incredibly common-present in approximately 50% of the population.

Up to 90% of individuals with H. pylori may not have any noticeable symptoms, which makes detection and appropriate testing even more important if suspected.

Symptoms of H. pylori

90% of the population may not have any symptoms. When symptoms do present, they may include:

• Acid reflux/heartburn

• Bloating

• Upper abdominal discomfort

• Nausea

May cause low stomach acid, which can impact digestion and nutrient absorption.

Testing for H. pylori

Endoscopy/biopsy doesn't always detect H. pylori because detection depends on where the sample is taken. I personally have seen negative biopsy, with positive stool testing.

I prefer DNA PCR stool testing for accuracy. This method looks directly for bacterial DNA and can detect an infection even when symptoms are minimal or absent.

Treatment for H PYLORI

At Origo Functional Medicine, we use a 2-3 month treatment duration with 2-3 broad spectrum antimicrobial herbs. Research and clinical evidence has shown successful eradication of this bacteria avoiding use of antibiotics which are known to disrupt the gut microbiome.