Gastro Bugs
If you’re in unexpected gastrointestinal distress, one question is probably at the front of your mind. Could this be food poisoning or is this a stomach bug? Both of these illnesses have very similar symptoms and can come on quickly, so it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart. Typically symptoms of a stomach bug will take 12 to 48 hours to develop, while the symptoms of food poisoning develop much faster, usually with 6 hours of consuming an infected dish or beverage.
A stomach bug is also known as gastroenteritis. It’s an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include: diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, headache.
A stomach bug caused by a rotavirus or norovirus infection is highly contagious. The most common way to contract the virus is from direct contact with someone who is sick. You can also contract the virus from contact with a surface that someone who is infected has touched.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract. Research has implicated this bacteria as a leading cause of ulcers and chronic gastritis. H. pylori has been found to suppress hydrochloric acid production, which would normally kill any bacteria and parasites in the stomach.
Our body’s immune system is designed to prevent infections like Helicobacter pylori. Stomach acid is an important first line of defence for our immune system to kill off ingested pathogens, the risk of further infections (and subsequent conditions) also increases. As such, individuals with low levels of stomach acid have a higher risk of H. pylori infection and other pathogens or overgrowths in the gastrointestinal tract.
Lets take a look at some natural supplements that can provide support for those with a nasty gastro bug.
Nature’s Sunshine Gastro Health contains a concentrated form of herbs shown to exhibit antibacterial activity against H. pylori and soothe inflamed stomach tissues or ulcers developing from the H. pylori bacteria. It can also be beneficial for other viral or bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract and provides symptomatic support for stomach bugs. This make Gastro Health an excellent first aid option for those who are travelling, candida or parasite sufferers and anyone who is prone to regular gastro bugs.
Go Healthy Pro Flora SB contains the specialised probiotic strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Bouldarii) to soothe and support intestinal health and the healthy mucous lining of the digestive system, helps to restore a balanced gut flora, and can provide support to settle traveller's upset stomach. Studies have shown that the use of Saccharomyces boulardii in conjunction with the triple treatment for H. pylori can increase its effectiveness and also reduce the side effects.
Chios Mastic Gum is a resin, or sap-like substance, that comes from the mastic tree that grows on the Greek island of Chios. It has traditionally been used to support stomach discomfort and in a 2010 study found that mastic gum may aid with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Research suggests that the antibacterial properties of mastic gum can fight H. pylori bacteria and six other ulcer-causing bacteria.