Your family and friends are gathered around the picnic table on a summer afternoon. As you talk and laugh, the dishes are passed around the table like clockwork. In the heat of the summer sun, that cold cucumber salad may look deliciously refreshing—but if you have gastritis, it could mean an untimely exodus from the party. Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to more serious gastric problems down the line. Gastritis can be caused by the H. pylori bacteria or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); however, it can also be caused by autoimmune problems, infectious agents, or other gastric diseases. Symptoms of gastritis include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Belching, bloating, loss of appetite, or indigestion
**Gastritis—both chronic and acute—can also be asymptomatic. In order to avoid sometimes-debilitating bouts of gastritis, it’s important to know your triggers. Here is a list of foods and beverages that can increase stomach acid and trigger gastritis symptoms:
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Carbonated drinks
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Citrus and citrus juices
- Black and red pepper
- Chili and garlic powder
- High-fat foods (sausage, salami, bacon, ham, etc.)
- Raw vegetables (cucumbers, onions, garlic, hot chiles, and peppers)
- Tomato products (tomato paste, sauce, or juice)
Symptoms of gastritis can also be triggered by environmental and chemical elements, such as:
- Cigarette/cigar smoking
- Heavy drinking
- NSAIDs
**Short bouts of gastritis can also accompany viral infections. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please consult with a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist will be able to properly diagnose your symptoms as well as create a treatment plan for you. The specialists with GI Alliance are trained to diagnose and treat gastritis, as well as countless other gastrointestinal diseases and disorders. Schedule a consultation today and get your stomach lining in fighting trim.
