Gastritis is inflammation in the stomach lining. Home and lifestyle remedies, such as garlic extract, green tea, and managing stress, may help. However, medical treatment may also be necessary.

Gastritis describes any condition that inflames the stomach lining. Helicobacter pylori bacteria, a type of bacteria that infects the stomach and small bowel, is the most common cause of gastritis worldwide. However, other factors can cause a gastritis flare-up, including:

Although there are instances where medical treatment is necessary to treat gastritis, many people find that they can manage these symptoms at home.

This article looks at nine home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help relieve gastritis symptoms. Not all remedies will work for everyone, so a person may need to try several of these before finding what works best for them.

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Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, so consuming a diet that helps minimize inflammation may provide relief over time. However, research has not conclusively shown that eating a certain diet causes or prevents gastritis.

Nevertheless, people can try to identify which foods trigger their symptoms by keeping a food diary.

According to a 2020 study, some foods that may worsen gastritis include:

  • meat products
  • sugary foods
  • spicy foods
  • fried foods
  • alcohol

Some research suggests that garlic extract can help reduce the symptoms of gastritis caused by the H. pylori bacteria. Crushing raw garlic and eating it may also work well.

Probiotics can help improve digestion and encourage regular bowel movements. Probiotic supplements introduce good bacteria into a person’s digestive tract, which may help stop the spread of H. pylori.

Eating foods that contain probiotics may also improve the symptoms of gastritis. These foods include:

One study showed that drinking green tea or black tea at least once a week could significantly reduce the presence of H. pylori in the digestive tract.

Manuka honey may also be beneficial, as it contains antibacterial properties that help fight infection. It is available to buy in health stores and online.

Essential oils that may positively affect gastritis symptoms include peppermint, ginger, and clove. People may wish to use the oils in a diffuser or consult a doctor about using them safely to help relieve gastritis.

It is essential that people do not ingest essential oils. Consumption of these oils can lead to severe side effects and complications.

It is important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate essential oils or alternative medication.

Eating large, carbohydrate-heavy meals can put a strain on a person’s digestive system and aggravate gastritis. A 2020 study also showed that having irregular mealtimes may cause a flare-up in gastritis symptoms.

Eating small meals regularly over the course of the day can help ease the digestive process and reduce the symptoms of gastritis.

Smoking can damage a person’s stomach lining and increase their risk of developing stomach cancer.

Stopping smoking may decrease the irritation to a person’s stomach lining, allowing it to heal and helping alleviate the symptoms of gastritis.

Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), can increase a person’s risk of developing gastritis and other gastrointestinal complications.

This is because taking too many can damage the stomach lining and make gastritis worse.

Stress can cause gastritis flare-ups, so reducing stress levels is an important way to help manage the condition.

Stress management techniques include:

The symptoms of gastritis include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • a gnawing or burning sensation in the stomach
  • feeling full after eating only a small amount

Although gastritis can be unpleasant, medical professionals do not usually consider it to be a serious condition. A person should contact a doctor if their symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Although the cause of gastritis varies among individuals, people can take some steps to avoid these symptoms.

These steps include:

Home remedies can help many people manage gastritis. However, if the symptoms do not go away, it is essential to speak with a doctor.

People with gastritis should consult a doctor if they experience:

A doctor will ask questions and perform a physical examination. In some cases, they may wish to carry out certain tests.

Medications that doctors commonly prescribe for gastritis include:

  • Histamine 2 (H2) blockers: These may help decrease acid production. Both prescription and OTC varieties are available.
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These may also work to reduce acid production and are available both OTC and on prescription.
  • Antibiotics: These medications can treat H. pylori infections.

The following are answers to additional questions about gastritis.

How long does it take for gastritis to heal naturally?

The healing period for gastritis depends on the cause. Acute gastritis may require medications, but it usually clears within a few days. If a person does not treat gastritis, it may develop into chronic gastritis, which may take months or years to go away.

What is the fastest way to cure gastritis at home?

For fast gastritis relief, a person will probably need to use over-the-counter medications that block or reduce stomach acid. Examples include calcium carbonate (Tums) or omeprazole (Prilosec). Learn more about antacids.

What can I eat and drink for gastritis?

Mild gastritis typically resolves independently, and eating specific foods will not heal it. However, eating and drinking the following may reduce the risk of developing gastritis in the first place:

  • green tea
  • high fiber foods
  • low acidity foods and drinks
  • low fat foods

Is Pepto Bismol good for gastritis?

Pepto Bismol is an over-the-counter antacid, and may help reduce inflammation and discomfort in mild gastritis cases.

Gastritis is a condition that affects a person’s stomach lining, leading to inflammation. Common causes include heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, stress, overusing pain relievers, and H. pylori infections.

The symptoms of gastritis include stomach pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness.

In most cases, gastritis clears up on its own. However, a doctor may recommend medications that can help reduce stomach acid or clear up an infection.