- Gastric bloating
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Nausea
- Black tarry stools
- Excessive belching
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
This study is important because many patients with a history of gluten sensitivity have refractory iron deficiency. Refractory means that their anemia does not correct with iron supplementation. In these patients, H. pylori infection should be ruled out as a contributing factor. If discovered a treatment regimen against the infection should be implemented while iron levels are monitored. For symptoms and problems linked to iron deficiency go here
Source: World J Gastroenterol. 2013 Jul 14;19(26):4166-71. Helicobacter pylori infection as a cause of iron deficiency anaemia of unknown origin.
The Problem With Traditional H. pylori Treatments
Most doctors prescribe triple therapy - a combination of proton pump inhibitors (PPI's), clarithromycin, and amoxicillin. This combination of acid blocking and antibiotics has become less and less effective due to antibiotic resistant strains of H. pylori. Additionally, many patients have severe adverse reactions to this therapy - the symptoms of which can be worse than the infection.
Natural Support for H. pylori Control
There are many natural botanicals that have been studied and shown to be effective at destroying H. pylori. Because of antibiotic resistance, these botanicals are often times better options. You should talk with a functional medicine doctor more about this avenue. Common botanicals used for H. pylori include - mastic gum and berberine. Additionally, a number of healthy foods have anti-bacterial effects including garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, and coconut. Liberal use of these foods can be considered in addition to botanicals for those wanting to implement food based support.
Bottom Line
If you have chronic iron deficiency even after supplementing appropriately with iron, you should consider having your doctor rule out an H. pylori infection. If present, I recommend taking a regimen of the following:
- natural anti-microbials
- Immunoglobulin protein
- High dose vitamin C (5 grams or more)
- A strong probiotic (at least 40 billion CFU's).
Always looking out for you,
Dr. O - The Gluten Free Warrior
Comment: Read more about the many faces of Helicobacter Pylori: