Peptic Ulcers - Lifestyle Changes

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Spices and Peppers. Studies conducted on spices and peppers have yielded conflicting results. The rule of thumb is to use these substances moderately, and to avoid them if they irritate the stomach.

Garlic. Some studies suggest that high amounts of garlic may have some protective properties against stomach cancer, although a recent study concluded that it offered no benefits against H. pylori itself and, in high amounts, causes considerable GI distress.

Vitamins. Although no vitamins have been shown to protect against ulcers, H. pylori appears to impair absorption of vitamin C, which may play a role in the higher risk of stomach cancer.

Exercise

Some evidence exists that exercise may help reduce the risk for ulcers in some people. In one 2000 study, exercise was associated with a lower risk for duodenal (but not gastric) ulcers in men. In this study, exercise appeared to have no effect on ulcer development in women.

Stress Relief

Stress relief programs have not been shown to promote ulcer healing, but they may have other health benefits.

Alternative Treatments

Melatonin is a hormone found in the brain that is normally associated with its role in sleep. Researchers have also observed that the GI tract is rich in melatonin, and that the hormone may have properties that help prevent ulcers, reduce acid secretion, and improve blood flow. It is not known whether this would benefit people with peptic ulcers, but it appears to warrant some research. Melatonin is a powerful hormone that can have major effects on all parts of the body. High doses of melatonin can disrupt the body's natural clock in the brain, and long-term consequences on sleep are unknown. High doses have been associated with the following adverse events:

• Mental impairment.
• Severe headaches.
• Nightmares.

Interactions with other drugs are not completely known. It should be stressed that in the United States, melatonin is currently classified as a dietary supplement and not as a drug, so its quality and effectiveness is uncontrolled. (The U.S. is the only developed nation that does not regulate this agent.) The bottom line is that at this time, people who take melatonin are experimenting on themselves.

Review Date: 07/14/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital