Please Note:  Following is an explanation of the root causes and treatment of Stomach Ulcers.  After reviewing this material, you will be asked to make a decision regarding your choice of treatment;
1.  To proceed with integrative care through Parker’s Integrative Medicine and Wellness Program (this can include prescriptions), or
2.  To continue with pharmaceutical treatment as prescribed in conventional medicine, or
3.  To address further questions with Dr. Gardner or a trained health coach.

Parker will support you in your personal decision.


Peptic (stomach) ulcers occur when the stomach lining breaks down.  The most common symptom is burning pain in the stomach. This pain may come and go.  Pain often gets worse on an empty stomach and may diminish after eating.

Causes may include:
•    overuse of NSAIDs and aspirin
•    use of antacids
•    stress
•    repressed emotions
•    bacterial infection (helicobacter pylori)
•    excessive stomach acid secretion
•    heavy alcohol use
•    smoking

Conventional Medical Treatment

Conventional medicine typically uses antibiotics, antacids, and acid-suppressing medications.

However, these medications do not address the root causes of the problem.  They can mask the symptoms and can ultimately cause conditions to be worse.

Options

You have the option to choose treatments that address the causes of stomach ulcers, and not just treat the symptoms. Treatments that address the causes may include:

Treatment
•    avoid triggers
•    DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) wafers before meals
•    increase fiber intake
•    betaine hydrochloride to increase gastric acid production in stomach (as a trial)
•    aloe vera

A Parker’s Integrative Medicine and Wellness Program Practitioner May Also Be Able to Provide

•     A prioritized treatment regimen
•     Help in addressing emotional issues

Vegetables

[HealthyEatingVideo]
 
We all know that vegetables are good for us, but here are some of the reasons why:

Vegetables contain
•    minerals,
•    trace minerals,
•    B vitamins,
•    calcium,
•    magnesium,
•    iron,
•    fiber
•    and more.

Dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach help to cleanse the body of impurities.

Root vegetables such as beets and turnips aid digestion and the assimilation of minerals.

When looking for the kinds of vegetables that provide you with the best value for your food dollar, be aware that:

1.    Fresh is best (locally grown and organic are ideal)
2.    Frozen vegetables are next in nutritive value, because freezing maintains much of the nutrition of fresh
3.    Third highest priority is canned vegetables.

When plating your food, half of the plate should be filled with vegetables.  You’ll notice that you will feel better just by implementing this small change in your eating habits.