A peptic ulcer is a spot where the lining of the stomach or small intestine and the tissues beneath and sometimes part of the stomach itself have been eroded. This leaves and internal open wound. The surrounding tissue is usually swollen and irritated. Ulcers can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, but they are most commonly found in the stomach and duodenum. The duodenum is the portion of the small intestine that is closest to the stomach. Each year, peptic ulcers affect about 5 million Americans. It is estimated that about 10 percent of Americans will be affected by a peptic ulcer at some point in their lives.

The symptoms of peptic ulcers include chronic burning or gnawing stomach pain that usually begins somewhere between forty-five and sixty minutes after eating or at night. This pain can be relieved by eating, taking antacids, vomiting, or drinking a large glass of water. The pain can range anywhere from mild to severe, potentially causing the individual to awaken in the middle of the night. Additional symptoms include lower back pain, headaches, a choking sensation, itching, and even nausea and vomiting.

An ulcer is the result of the lining of the stomach failing to provide adequate protection against the effect of digestive acids and enzymes. In this condition, the digestive acids and enzymes start to digest the stomach itself.

At one point it was believed that stress and anxiety were the main cause of ulcer. However, evidence has shown that ulcers are actually the result of an infection with H. pylori bacteria that are combined with the presence of stomach acid. H. pylori can live on the lining of the stomach and small intestine, where it has the potential to cause damage to the lining and also to the mucous layer that protects the lining from digestive acids.

A lot of health care professionals think that the bacteria are transmitted from person to person through close contact, while others still consider stress to be a risk factor for peptic ulcers. This is because stress increases the production of stomach acid. Additionally, certain drugs and supplements may also increase acid production, which is why taking aspirin or NSAIDs, especially over a long period of time, can increase stomach acidity and lead to ulcers. Steroids, which are taken for arthritis, can contribute to stomach ulcers.

A family history of peptic ulcer disease also increases a person’s risk, as does alcohol consumption. In addition, heavy smokers are more prone to developing ulcers and also have a greater trouble getting those ulcers to heal. It has been found that African-Americans and Latinos are twice as likely as Caucasians to have ulcers. If these ulcers are left untreated, they can cause intestinal bleeding or perforation of the stomach or small intestine.

The following nutrients are recommended for treating and preventing peptic ulcers: L-glutamine, pectin, vitamin E, acidophilus, bromelain, curcumin, essential fatty acids, iron, a multivitamin and mineral complex, proteolytic enzymes, pycnogenol, SAMe, vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin K, and zinc. Along with the above, the following herbs may also provide some benefit in dealing with peptic ulcers: alfalfa, aloe vera, bupleurum, cat’s claw, comfrey, garlic, hops, passionflower, skullcap, valerian root, kava kava, St. John’s wort, licorice, malva tea, marshmallow root, slippery elm, rhubarb, bayberry, catnip, chamomile, goldenseal, myrrh, and sage.

DGL Licorice is very soothing to an ulcer and can be taken daily to sooth and health. Look to your local or internet vitamin store for herbs and vitamins that help improve your stomach health. Always choose name brands to ensure quality of what you buy, remember cheaper is not always better.

Author Bio: Look for DGL Licorice and other herbs for peptic ulcers is available at VitaNet 7reg;, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: DGL, Peptic Ulcers, Prevent Ulcers, DGL Licorice, Improve Stomach Health