Matula Herbal Formula

Published on 16. Nov, 2008 by Dave Hompes in General

One of the biggest questions if you have been diagnosed with H pylori is “how do I get rid of it?” Research has now revealed that conventional treatments with Triple Therapy are not working as well as they used to, largely because many strains of H pylori are now resistant to antibiotics such as clarithromycin. This leaves a conundrum because if the Triple Therapy doesn’t work for you, what do you do?

I have personally had amazing success using Matula Herbal Formula. I used Matula to clear my own H pylori infection two years ago and have so far achieved a 100% success rate using the product with my clients, a 30% greater success rate than Triple Therapy is currently yielding. Every single client who has used Matula on my program has eradicated their H pylori infection.

I do receive some emails from people who have tried the Matula and the treatment has not worked. I believe that this is largely because other factors are involved in their symptoms. I have discovered that if people use an anti-inflammatory diet alongside Matula Herbal Formula it works much better and that the program can be enhanced even more by adding supplements to heal the digestive lining and add good bacteria back into the body.

The thing I like most about Matula is that Perfectly Natural Herbs, the company that makes Matula, has a 100% money back guarantee if your treatment does not work, so essentially you are able to try it risk-free. I can assure you that the company does issue a full refund if your follow up lab testing is still positive for H pylori.

There is no doubt at all that if you have H pylori you definitely need to clear it out of your system. If you read my symptoms page you will see that H pylori can cause a diverse array of symptoms and potentially serious conditions.

It is my professional recommendation, therefore, that you run the anti-inflammatory diet program alongside the Matula so that you optimise your success!  To your good health,

Dave. http://h-pylori-symptoms.com/

The most advanced H pylori and digestive function test available…

Discover The Root Cause of Your Digestive Pain, Heartburn, Bloating & IBS Without Leaving The Comfort Of Your Home Using The Metametrix GI Effects Stool Profiles!

• Do you have chronic digestive, energy, mood and skin problems?
• Have conventional testing methods failed to provide any answers?
• Would you like to finally find out WHY these problems won’t go away?
• Do you need to re-test to make sure H pylori has gone?

Why Run Comprehensive Stool Testing?

Comprehensive stool assessment and analysis can help you discover the underlying cause of your symptoms, allowing you to follow an individualised programme that is laser-focused on your specific issues. This enables you to achieve better results, faster, thereby saving you money and removing the guesswork from your health challenges.

“Death Begins In The Colon” – Elie Metchnikoff

Gastrointestinal function is important for general health and many experts believe that all disease begins in the digestive tract. The intestinal tract contains significant amounts of bacteria; some beneficial, some neutral, and some harmful.

Balancing beneficial microbial flora in the gut is key to proper digestion, efficient nutrient usage, and ridding the body of waste and pathogens such as parasites, fungi and bacteria such as H pylori.

Poor digestion and absorption of foods can lead to immune dysfunction, nutritional insufficiencies, mental/emotional disorders, and autoimmune diseases. H pylori and other digestive infections have been shown in studies to cause or contribute to all these conditions.

 

H Pylori Infection Is The Tip Of The Iceberg

Helicobacter pylori is one of many bacteria, parasites and fungal organisms that can inhabit your digestive tract. I have personally seen and helped my clients recover from more than 30 different digestive infections over the last three years, including:

• H pylori
• Blastocystis
• Giardia
• Cryptosporidium
• Salmonella
• Vibrio
• Yersinia
• Klebsiella
• Candida
• Entamoeba histolytica
• Trichuris trichiura (whipworm)
• Strongyloides (threadworm)
• Necator americanus (hookworm)
• Pinworm

I, myself, had a Helicobacter pylori infection and Blastocystis hominis, an intestinal parasite. It wasn’t until I cleared both that my symptoms were completely resolved. It took the appropriate testing and a targeted herbal protocol to clear these two infections, but it really did not take long to recover my health once the true causes had been uncovered.

The Limitations of Conventional H Pylori Testing

• H pylori tests typically only test for H pylori (except for endoscopies which are able to find structural damage to your stomach lining, such as gastritis, ulcers and other problems like hiatus hernias)

• Symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, stomach pain, IBS, fatigue, depression can be caused by completely different infections that are missed by standard H pylori testing (see the list above and also testimonials and case histories).

• More than half my clients with H pylori also have at least one other infection (see case histories and testimonials). In these cases, clearing H pylori alone may not bring any improvements in symptoms.

• In other cases, H pylori may not be present at all, even though the symptoms are similar to those caused by the bacteria. For example, Strongyloides (threadworm) and Cryptospodium are two digestive infections that can cause the same symptoms as H pylori infection.

• H pylori tests do not assess for food intolerances, another major cause of digestive symptoms and chronic fatigue.

• Conventional H pylori tests are not always accurate – false negatives and false positives are common (a full discussion of this is provided in my e-book, the H Pylori Diet and on the H Pylori Secrets DVD.

• Doctors may be unwilling to test if symptoms are not serious enough, or if the symptoms appear to be unrelated to the digestive system (but we know that digestive infections like H pylori and parasites can cause symptoms elsewhere in the body).

• There may be waiting lists and long delays before testing can be accessed, depending on your location. Do you want to wait that long?

 

Moving Beyond “Old Stool” Technology!

Introducing the GI Effects DNA Stool Technology

The Metametrix GI Effects stool test is unlike any other stool analysis profile and has taken stool-testing technology to a completely different level.

It has completely revolutionised my clinical practice and has allowed my clients to achieve fantastic results where all other methods have proven fruitless.

Clients have been astonished at the level of detail that is accessible using the GI Effects testing and the range of information we collect makes it almost impossible NOT to achieve desired results.

 

Why Is The GI Effects Test Better?

Conventional stool testing typically uses microscope analysis of stool samples to identify bacteria, yeast organisms and “ova and parasites”. This method of testing carries with it several disadvantages:

• Parasites and other digestive bugs do not always appear in every stool sample!

• As a result, several samples may be required before the digestive infections are found.

• Patients with constipation can find it very difficult to complete these tests.

• These tests are inconvenient if you have work or other commitments – it can be hard to find time and privacy to provide several samples.

• It is well known that some organisms – especially worms – are very hard to find, even with multiple stool samples.

• In order to find bacteria and yeast/fungal organisms like Candida, stool specimens have to be cultured for at least 24 hours. In this situation, aerobic organisms thrive and anaerobic organisms die off. The resulting picture may be completely different from the initial balance of organisms in the stool sample.

• There is a great deal of room for human error – some microbiologists are more skilled in detecting parasites and bacteria than others.

Advantages of the GI Effects Stool Profile versus Old Technology

To combat some of these problems, the Metametrix GI Effects Profile uses DNA analysis to identify microbes, including anaerobes. Anaerobes are bacteria and many parasites that thrive in an environment that is low in oxygen. When stool samples are cultured, as in “old stool technology”, many anaerobes die and are not detected in the sample.

DNA assessment is specific and accurate, avoids the pitfalls of sample transport, reports results as specific numbers, and is more sensitive than classic laboratory methods.

• Flexibility in levels of testing to suit your budgetThe GI Effects testing can be performed at various levels, depending on your requirements and budget, from a test that merely checks for parasites or yeast overgrowth to one that checks for inflammation, digestive enzyme levels, gluten intolerance, fat absorption, immune function and more, in addition to finding the “bugs”! See the Interpretive Guide for details.

• Greater AccuracyMicrobial DNA analysis improves the accuracy of results and includes both aerobes and anaerobes. Anaerobes comprise over 95% of the bacteria in the gut and are difficult to detect with old culture methods because they die in the presence of oxygen.

• Antibiotic Resistance GenesDNA analysis detects organisms possessing genes that give rise to antibiotic resistance, offering clinicians a superior tool for effective patient management.

• Single Sample CollectionCulture methods require multiple collections, whereas the GI Effects Stool Profile requires only one sample collection leading to improved patient compliance!

• Eliminates Errors in TransportSample transport is a source of significant error in culture analysis due to the change in microbial balance from the time of collection (some bugs die, some thrive). Using DNA analysis, the specimen is placed in a fixative tube that stops microbial growth and offers a highly accurate snapshot of the microbial balance in the gut.

• Increased Sensitivity (5,000 times more sensitive!)GI Effects detects as few as 5 cells per gram – a 5000-fold increase in sensitivity over microscopy for parasite detection (in other words, the testing is 5,000 times more sensitive than conventional parasite testing.

• Better Value – more than 80 markers!Using the GI Effects Stool Test, you can assess the following analytes. Note that there are more than eighty different markers available when you run the most comprehensive test option.

The one-time fee for the test covers ALL these markers. The stool sample is analysed for all these analytes rather than having different samples for different purposes.

What Do We Test For?

PREDOMINANT BACTERIA (these are the “good” or “beneficial bacteria”. The proper balance of good bacteria is absolutely essential for optimal health. Unfortunately we often see good bacteria levels that are severely imbalance due to poor diet, use of antibiotics and the presence of parasites and “bad” bacteria) Bacteroides sp. Clostridia sp Prevotella sp. Fusobacteria sp. Streptomyces sp. Mycobacteria sp. Eubacteria sp. Lactobacillus Bifidobacter E. coli OPPORTUNISTIC BACTERIA (opportunistic bacteria are known to cause digestive symptoms and even acute gastroenteritis. If they are present on a long term basis, they are also associated with autoimmune conditions such as thyroid, ankylosing spondylitis and reactive arthritis) Klebsiella pneumoneae Bacillus sp. Citrobacter freundii Haemolytic E. coli. Psuedomonas sp. Plus many others, including Salmonella, Vibrio, Yersinia, Enterobacter PATHOGENIC BACTERIA (H pylori is not the only pathogenic bacterium and it is common to find bugs such as C. Difficile and Campylobacter in the GI Effects Stool Analysis) Helicobacter pylori Clostridium difficile Campylobacter sp. Entero-hemorrhagic Eschericia coli (EHEC) YEAST/FUNGI (yeast and fungal organisms are well known for causing a myriad of symptoms) Candida sp. PARASITOLOGY Parasitic Protozoans (microscopic parasites have the potential to cause IBS, fatigue, mood problems, arthritis and many other conditions) Blastocystis hominis Cryptosporidium species Dientamoeba fragilis Endomilax nana Entamoeba coli Entamoeba dispar Entamoeba hartmanni Entamoeba histolytica Giardia lamblia Iodamoeba butschlii Trichomonas hominis Parasitic Worms (worms are extremely toxic and can lead to the development of not only digestive symptoms, but many other problems throughout the body – I see at least 2 cases of worms each week) Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) Charcot leyden (microscopic crystals that are often found in people with digestive infections) Clonorchis sinensis (liver fluke) Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) Necator americanus (hookworm) Schistosoma mansoni (blood fluke) Strongyloides species (threadworm) Taenia solium (tapeworm) Trichuris species (whipworm) ADIPOSITY INDEX (the balance of these two groups of bacteria has been closely associated with weight gain and obesity because the firmicutes group assist in absorbing more calories from food) Firmicutes Bacteroidetes DRUG RESISTANCE GENES (the presence of drug resistance genes can indicate that certain groups of antibiotics may not be effective against the pathogens indicated in your test) aacA, aphD mecA vanA, vanB, vanC gyrB, ParE PBP1a, PBP2B SHORT CHAIN FATTY ACIDS (SCFAs)  (these are protective chemicals in the bowel that are produced by good bacteria. Low levels – caused by digestive infections and antibiotics – can increase risk for the development of serious diseases such as bowel cancer). Total SCFA n-Butyrate Acetate % Butyrate % Propionate % Valerate % INFLAMMATION (inflammation is now known as the “mother of all disease” – checking for inflammatory markers can help in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis and Crohn’s disease) Lactoferrin WBCs Mucus IMMUNOLOGY (at least 80% of your immune system is housed in your GI tract; gluten is the #1 problem-causing food we see and on its own can cause all common symptoms) Fecal sIgA (total front line immune defence) Anti-gliadin IgA (sensitive marker for gluten-sensitivity) ADDITIONAL TESTS (to check for bleeding due to ulcers or severe damage to the digestive lining) pH Occult Blood RBCs Color DIGESTION (if you’re unable to digest food properly, you cannot be healthy) Elastase1 Triglycerides Putrefactive SCFA Vegetable Fibers ABSORPTION (to check that you are absorbing fats and oils properly – not doing so indicates risk for nutritional deficiencies) Long Chain Fatty Acids (LCFA) Total Fat Cholesterol SENSITIVITY TESTING (so that you avoid taking antibiotics or herbs that will not work) Botanical Sensitivities Pharmaceutical Sensitivities

 

                         

---

The Symptoms Of H Pylori Your Doctor May Not Tell You About        

Group one contains the symptoms that your doctor will know about.

Group two contains symptoms that H. pylori causes (or at least contributes to) in a less obvious manner and as such, your doctor probably will not make the link.

 

Group One (classic H pylori symptoms)

• Abdominal Pain
• Acid reflux / Heartburn
• Anaemia
• Bad Breath
• Chest Pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Gastritis
• Nausea & Vomiting

Group Two (non-classic H pylori symptoms)

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fatigue / Low Energy
• Headaches / Migraines
• PMS
• Sinus Problems
• Skin: Urticaria. Rosacea, Hives, etc.
• Sleep Problems
• Weight Gain
• Weight Loss

Developed/Serious Health Conditions

• Autoimmune Conditions
• Cancer
• Heart Disease
• Osteoporosis
• Ulcers

H. pylori Symptoms: Group One (classic symptoms)

Abdominal pain

H pylori can cause pain in a number of ways. Pain can be caused when H. pylori inflames the stomach and small intestine lining. Because H. pylori can also slow down the digestive process, the build up of gases in the intestines can also create pain. Pain may also be caused if a person becomes constipated because of the digestive system becoming sluggish.

H. pylori infections can allow yeast overgrowth (Candida) and facilitate other digestive infections, such as Blastocystis hominis and Giardia lamblia, to get into the body. These secondary infections can also cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, gas and bloating.

Acid reflux / Heartburn

H pylori can cause excessive production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This acid can literally burn the delicate lining of the stomach causing pain. The acid can also spill back up the oesophagus causing reflux. In these cases, anti-acid medications such as Omeprazole, Zantac, Rennie, Gaviscon, Prilosec and Nexium may bring short-term relief for symptoms.

If Helicobacter pylori is present in the stomach for a long time, it damages the parietal cells that produce hydrochloric acid. This leads to low stomach acid, or hypochloridia. When acid is low, it becomes very difficult to digest food. As a result, food sits in the stomach and putrefies, giving off gases and causing a burning sensation in the stomach and/or throat.

In the latter situation, anti-acid medication will make the problem worse and will, in fact, make it easier for the H. pylori to survive (studies have shown that despite the fact that H pylori is well adapted to live in the acidic conditions of the stomach, the bacteria will migrate and live in areas of the stomach where the environment is less acidic).

Anaemia

Anaemia is iron deficiency. Studies have shown that iron-deficiency anaemia is closely linked with H pylori. When there is an H. pylori infection and reduced stomach acid, it becomes difficult to digest food, particularly protein. If food can not be broken down in the stomach, the absorption of minerals can be affected. Iron is the only mineral to have been studies extensively but over time it is likely that multiple mineral and vitamin deficiencies develop as a result of H. pylori infection.

Bad breath

The H pylori organisms react with stomach acid to create ammonia. The ammonia can cause bad breath. This chemical reaction allows us to detect the infection using a breath test.

Bloating & excessive gas

Bloating is generally caused by inflammation in the digestive system and the build up of gases as digestion of food becomes more compromised. The build up of undigested sugars and fats in the intestines results in bacterial and yeast overgrowth. As the bacteria and yeast feed on the undigested food, gases are given off, leading to bloating, abdominal distension and flatulence.

Chest pain & Pain between the shoulder blades

The stomach is innervated by nerves from the 4th-8th thoracic vertebrae. These vertebrae correspond to the chest, shoulder blade and stomach areas. If the stomach is inflamed because of H. pylori infection, the pain signals from the stomach can reflex into these areas of the body.

Some people experience severe chest pain and may even think they are having a heart attack during attacks of Helicobacter. I receive 2-3 emails per week from people who have experienced these symptoms and may have even been rushed to the emergency room, only to find that all cardiac tests that are run are completely normal.

Constipation

It is known that H. pylori cause low stomach acid (see Heartburn & Acid Reflux) by damaging the parietal cells of the stomach. As a result, food is not processed properly in the stomach. Undigested food may be released into the intestine, creating a domino effect that ‘backs-up’ the entire digestive system.

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is usually the result of infections and H pylori can contribute to this symptom. Once the body rids itself of the unwanted organisms or toxins, the intestines usually return to normal. But if the infection is chronic in nature, as most H pylori infections are, the symptoms can also become chronic. The diarrhoea may not be constant and may happen infrequently, or it may happen most days.

Intestinal damage caused by Helicobacter pylori may lead to intestinal weeping (similar to the way burns and wounds to the skin weep). This can also contribute to diarrhoea and may result not only from H. pylori but also from food sensitivity (e.g. gluten).

If sugars and fat are not absorbed properly because H pylori is preventing proper digestion in the stomach and intestines, fluid is drawn into the colon. If the colon cannot reabsorb this fluid, the stool will become loose and watery. Bacteria and yeasts can also feast on these undigested food particles, causing gas, flatulence, cramping and bloating.

Gastritis

Gastritis is a medical condition characterised by inflammation of the stomach lining. The corkscrew shape of H. pylori enables the bacterium to burrow into and injure the stomach lining. Any injury (think of hitting your hand with a hammer, or burning yourself) will result in inflammation, characterised by heat, swelling, redness and pain at the site of injury). Stomach acid can further burn or irritate the site and lead to burning and pain in the stomach and chest area.

Nausea & Vomiting

It is not clear how H pylori causes nausea. Vomiting is likely caused as the body attempts to rid itself of the infection by ejecting it through the vomiting process. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of H pylori and may be confused for pregnancy morning sickness in women.

 

H. pylori Symptoms: Group Two (non-classic symptoms)

Anxiety

Any time there is a H. pylori problem or any digestive inflammation (from foods, other digestive infections), the adrenal glands have to produce the stress hormone cortisol. It is common to see either too high or too low levels of cortisol in people with Helicobacter pylori. Each molecule of cortisol has to be made from a molecule of progesterone and over time this leads to a deficiency in progesterone. In women, this often causes mood problems, especially depression, irritability and anxiety. It can also lead to PMS symptoms such as painful menstruation, heavy bleeding or skipping periods altogether.

As the adrenal glands make cortisol, other hormones such as DHEA, testosterone and oestrogen can also drop too low, again contributing to depression in men and women. Dr Candace Pert, PhD calls hormones are ‘molecules of emotion’. High or low levels of these molecules can cause emotional imbalances.

Depression

Any time there is a H. pylori problem or any digestive inflammation (from foods, other digestive infections), the adrenal glands have to produce the stress hormone cortisol. It is common to see either too high or too low levels of cortisol in people with Helicobacter pylori. Each molecule of cortisol has to be made from a molecule of progesterone and over time this leads to a deficiency in progesterone. In women, this often causes mood problems, especially depression, irritability and anxiety. It can also lead to PMS symptoms such as painful menstruation, heavy bleeding or skipping periods altogether.

As the adrenal glands make cortisol, other hormones such as DHEA, testosterone and oestrogen can also drop too low, again contributing to depression in men and women. Dr Candace Pert, PhD calls hormones are ‘molecules of emotion’. High or low levels of these molecules can cause emotional imbalances.

Fatigue / Low Energy

You will no doubt have suffered with ‘the flu’ or a bad cold in the past. If so, you will have experienced how tired such an infection can make you feel. The same goes for a chronic digestive infection like H pylori. If you have a digestive infection of any kind, you will likely feel low on energy because your body will be using lots of energy to fight the infection 24/7.

Your appetite may also drop, leading to inadequate intake of food (one of the reasons people lose weight when they are ill). Chronic digestive infections also lead to a condition called adrenal fatigue. Any time there is an infection or digestive inflammation, the adrenal glands have to produce the stress hormone cortisol. If the adrenals become tired, energy levels tend to become depleted, especially in the mid-afternoon. You may also wake up feeling unrefreshed because your body has been fighting the infection overnight.

Migraines

It is not clear how Helicobacter pylori infections cause headaches and migraines. However studies have shown that migraines can clear once Helicobacter has been eradicated. It is likely that immune responses, hormone imbalances and neural factors caused by Helicobacter contribute to the development of headaches. For example, digestive infections can cause low progesterone women and it is well known that progesterone deficiency can cause headaches, particularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle. In addition, food sensitivities, possibly triggered by H. pylori may also contribute to headaches and migraines.

PMS

Any time there is a H. pylori problem or any digestive inflammation (from foods, other digestive infections), the adrenal glands have to produce the stress hormone cortisol. It is common to see either too high or too low levels of cortisol in people with Helicobacter pylori. Each molecule of cortisol has to be made from a molecule of progesterone and over time this leads to a deficiency in progesterone. In women, this often causes mood problems, especially depression, irritability and anxiety. It can also lead to PMS symptoms such as painful menstruation, heavy bleeding or skipping periods altogether.

As the adrenal glands make cortisol, other hormones such as DHEA, testosterone and oestrogen can also drop too low, again contributing to depression in men and women. Dr Candace Pert, PhD calls hormones are ‘molecules of emotion’. High or low levels of these molecules can cause emotional imbalances.

Sinus problems

Think about it – your sinuses are connected to your stomach. Your nostrils and mouth are one end of a tunnel. Your anus is other end. Your lungs, mouth, stomach and intestines are all part of the same tunnel network. If you have an infection in your stomach, the inflammatory response is not necessarily limited to that part of the tunnel network and may affect the mouth, lungs or even the eyes and ears.

Helicobacter is closely associated with yeast and fungal overgrowth and research clearly indicates that sinus problems are often nothing more than fungal problems. I have seen sinus problems completely clear when my clients have removed inflammatory foods from their diet and successfully cleared H pylori using a natural treatment. 

Skin: Urticaria. Rosacea, Hives, etc.

It is not clear how H pylori cause skin conditions. Research and clinical experience has shown that these conditions can improve significantly when H pylori is removed from the body and relevant dietary changes are made. In my experience, the health of the skin seems to reflects the health of the digestive system.

Sleep problems

Melatonin is a hormone that helps us sleep. Any time there is a H. pylori problem or any digestive inflammation (from foods, other digestive infections) the adrenal glands have to produce the stress hormone cortisol. It is common to see either too high or too low levels of cortisol in people with Helicobacter pylori. High cortisol can disrupt the body’s ability to make melatonin, which can cause insomnia.

Each molecule of cortisol has to be made from a molecule of progesterone and over time this leads to a deficiency in progesterone. In women, this can lead to sleep problems. Of course, Helicobacter pylori cause digestive pain, which can also disrupt sleep.

Weight gain

People are often puzzled as to why H pylori infection can lead to weight loss and weight gain! It really depends on the individual as to which way the weight issue goes and in some people weight will not be affected.

When Helicobacter is in the body, it causes a stress response where the adrenal glands release a hormone called cortisol. One of the effects of high cortisol is to encourage body fat storage round the middle of the body (stomach, spare tyre). Adrenals that are overworking can also slow down the thyroid gland. It is well known that slow or sluggish thyroid function can lead to weight gain.

As the adrenals are called upon to make more and more cortisol, they start to fatigue and cortisol begins to drop. Low cortisol leads to a situation where fats cannot be metabolised and used by the body and as a result they are stored away in the fat cells.

At the same time, many women and even men, especially middle-aged men, become estrogen dominant. In women, estrogen is dominant over progesterone and in men it becomes dominant over testosterone. This leads to weight gain and also muscle loss. 

Weight loss

As I have discussed in the ‘weight gain’ section, Helicobacter pylori infection leads to a stress response where cortisol levels become elevated. Cortisol causes the body’s lean tissues – i.e. muscle and bone – to be broken down for emergency fuel. As these tissues break down, bodyweight can start to drop.

The H pylori infection may also result in poor digestion of food. If the building blocks of the body – amino acids from protein and fatty acids from fats and oils cannot be absorbed into the body, it will continue to break down as the body becomes more and more malnourished. 

Developed/Serious Health Conditions 

H pylori and Autoimmune Conditions

An autoimmune condition is characterised by the immune system attacking its own tissues. Example include multiple sclerosis, thyroiditis, colitis, crohn’s disease, type I diabetes and fibromyalgia.

H pylori has been linked with all these diseases but the links are quite tenuous at this stage. It is believed that the proteins on the surface of H pylori are very similar to the proteins found in the body’s own tissues. The immune system may confuse these proteins and instead of attacking H pylori, mount an attack against its own tissues instead.

The research seems to indicate that the thyroid gland is the most likely target of this autoimmune complication. 

H pylori Cancer

Research suggests that around 1% of people with H pylori develop stomach cancer. This may sound like a small number, but bear in mind that the world’s population is around 6.6 billion people. H pylori is thought to infect around 50% of this population, or around 3.3 billion people. One per cent of 3.3 billion is 330 million people! So we’re saying that three hundred and thirty million people who have H pylori, right now, will develop stomach cancer.

It is known that the specific strain of H pylori is an important factor in the development of stomach cancer. Two strains – CagA and BabA – seem to be the most likely to cause cancer as a result of specific toxins they produce.

The mechanism by which cancer develops is not yet fully understood, but it seems likely that inflammatory and structural damage to the stomach lining as well as the immune response and toxins produced by the H pylori all play a part in its development. 

H pylori and Heart Disease

There is growing scientific evidence to support the role of various infections, including Helicobacter pylori, in the development of heart disease. The precise mechanisms are not yet known, but it seems as though the problem is related to the way in which our immune systems recognise certain proteins in our heart and blood vessels and confuse them for proteins found on the surface of H pylori. This is known as ‘molecular mimicry’.

Studies have shown associations between H pylori infection and homocysteine, cholesterol, blood pressure and insulin resistance. We know that these are potential risk factors for heart disease and may also be part of the mechanism by which H pylori could cause heart disease. 

H pylori and Osteoporosis

H pylori eventually leads to a condition called ‘hypochloridia’, or low stomach acid. When stomach acid is low, the breaking apart of proteins and release of minerals like calcium and magnesium is compromised. If the body can not digest food and absorb nutrients properly, calcium and magnesium levels may drop. Of course, calcium and magnesium are essential for bone health and deficiencies can lead to a reduction of bone density.

H pylori cause chronic inflammation in the stomach and intestine, which causes an elevation in the hormone cortisol from the adrenal glands. High levels of cortisol actually cause bone to be broken down. In addition, when cortisol is too high, progesterone becomes too low. Progesterone is needed to build bone.

To summarise, H pylori can lead to osteoporosis because it indirectly leads to a lack of minerals in the body that are the building blocks for bone, it increases bone turnover through high cortisol and reduces bone building through low progesterone (this is why women are more at risk of osteoporosis than are men). 

H pylori Ulcer

In 2005, the Nobel Prize for Physiology & Medicine was won by Drs Warren and Marshall when they proved that Helicobacter infection causes stomach and duodenal ulcers. It is thought that around 80% stomach ulcers are caused by H pylori and that more than 90% duodenal ulcers are caused by the infection. Other causes are thought to be alcohol consumption, NSAID use (e.g. aspirin) and cigarette smoking.

Ulcers can cause many of the symptoms listed on this page, including pain, burning, indigestion, headaches and sleep problems. If ulcers bleed, they can be life-threatening.
Dark, tarry stools, vomit containing ‘coffee’-like granules and abdominal pain can all be signs of bleeding ulcers, which need immediate medical attention.

Fortunately ulcer problems can be resolved relatively easily using a natural program of diet changes and supplements.

Helicobacter Pylori Causes

Are you wondering how or where you acquired Helicobacter pylori?

 

Does your partner or spouse have H pylori?

Did you have food poisoning from a restaurant or on holiday?

If you have been diagnosed with H pylori you may be wondering how on earth the bacteria managed to get into your stomach. I believe I picked up my H pylori infection in Egypt from some tainted food. Within eight hours of eating a meal I developed terrible stomach burning and chest pain, leading to a night of vomiting and then a week of stomach pains, weakness and nausea. 

How H pylori Gets Into Your Body

There is a detailed and fully referenced explanation of this topic on pages 11-16 of my e-book The H Pylori Diet. You are welcome to read this information for FREE by signing up to our weekly newsletter to the right of this page.

The medical and scientific literature has demonstrated that you may acquire H pylori via the following routes:

• Oral-Oral: H pylori bacteria have been found in the mouth and dental plaque. It may be passed via kissing or sharing eating / drinking utensils. H pylori bacteria have been found to survive on chopsticks even after they have been washed!
• Mother-Child: it is likely that Mothers pass H pylori to their babies as research demonstrates that Mothers and babies have identical strains of the bacteria. It is therefore essential that spouses, partners and family are tested.
• As yet I have come across no evidence that specifically links transmission of H pylori to breast feeding.
• Sexual Contact: H pylori DNA has been isolated in the colon, vaginal tract and in sperm. Sexual contact may play a role in transmission.
• Hospitals & Day Care Centres: Contact with stools and vomit of infected individuals may lead to infection. One study showed that apparatus used to conduct endoscopies / gastroscopies may lead to infection if not cleaned properly between uses.

(Taking into the above information you can see why it is essential that spouses, partners and family are

tested for H pylori. Failure to do this may lead to immediate re-infection).

• Fecal-Oral: food or water that has been contaminated with human waste may cause H pylori to be ingested (this is how I think I acquired my infection). This may explain increased prevalence in developing countries.
• H pylori bacteria have been found on cockroaches and in cockroach droppings as well as on houseflies.
• H pylori may be transmitted from animals to people in a process known as zoonosis. H pylori and other Helicobacter species have been found in dogs, cats, birds and other animals (even shellfish, sharks and dolphins!).

The truth is that H pylori may be picked up  in any of these ways and it can be hard to pinpoint exactly where you acquired the infection. But because person to person transmission does occur, it is highly recommended that you have your loved ones tested if you have the infection. For information on stool testing services or detailed advice, please email us via Office@HPExperts.com

H Pylori Treatments & Cures  ( Medical & Natural )

Wow, this is a tough area to try to cover on a single web page! I’ll do my best but I can only really provide bullet points for you.

First I will cover medical treatments, then I will cover natural programs, which can be just as effective as medical treatments as long as they are done properly I was personally able to eradicate my own H pylori infection using a completely natural protocol.

The main problem with H pylori treatment is that many doctors (not all) are not aware of the current research that is being done in this area.

Nor are they aware that natural botanical (herbal) programmes can be just as effective, if not more so, than conventional treatments. I am always disappointed to hear that doctors have actively warned people away from some of these excellent options.

If you would like more detailed information, I highly recommend that you request the H Pylori Secrets DVD clip and Two Special Reports by providing your email address, below. 

Conventional H Pylori Treatments

• Conventional “front line” Helicobacter treatment prescribed by doctors is called Triple Therapy.
• It involves taking two different antibiotics for 7-10 days, along with an antacid medication (brand names such as Prevacid, Nexium, Protonix, generic names like Omeprazole, Pantoprazole and Lanzoprazole)
• Many different combinations of antibiotics can be used: Tetracycline, Clarithromycin, Amoxicillin, Levofloxacin and others
• The reason for the antacid medication is that the antibiotics work better when there is less acid in your stomach.

Do The Treatments Work?

• Medical research clearly shows that there is a huge variation in the success rates of Triple Therapy.
• Some people achieve excellent success: their symptoms disappear very quickly and on re-test their H pylori infection has been eradicated.
• Studies reveal large differences in success rates – in some studies we see eradication rates of 80-90%, in others the eradication rates are as low as 50%.

Potential Problems With Triple Therapy:

The following statement is taken from the 2009 report of the European Helicobacter study group, edited by Dr David Graham, MD.

“The recommended first-line treatment in Europe and North America is proton pump inhibitor (antacid) combined with amoxicillin and clarithromycin being the favoured regimen. Rates of eradication with this regimen however are falling alarmingly due to a combination of antibiotic resistance and poor compliance with therapy.” 

Let’s take a look at the key issues:

• Triple therapy is not as effective as it used to be because H pylori strains are becoming more resistant to the treatments.
• Compliance rates in treatment are falling. It’s not clear why, but it’s very important to understand that some people simply cannot tolerate the medications.
• Both the antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (antacids) can cause significant side effects that prevent patients from completing the full course of medication.
• The side effects can absolutely worsen a patient’s situation and can cause more problems than they solve.

My Experience

• I hear from patients, clients and customers on a daily basis who had great results using Triple Therapy.
• I also hear some real horror stories where people have been through several courses of Triple Therapy only to find that their symptoms are worse and that H pylori bacteria are still present!
• Many people complain of side effects when they use antibiotics.

Other Medical Treatment Interventions

• If Triple Therapy fails, some doctors are aware of the other H pylori therapy options.
• However it is fair to say that many doctors are not fully aware of these additional options and simply continue to prescribe the same treatment over and over again, without success.
• Options include bismuth-based quadruple therapy, sequential therapy and therapy with a drug called Levofloxacin. 

What Should You Do?

• If you have used first-line Triple Therapy without success, ask your doctor about the following second line therapies:
• Quadruple Therapy with bisumth compounds
• Sequential Therapy
• If these therapies still do not work for you, third line therapies are also available using rifabutin and furazolidone.

Other Considerations

• The use of both antacids and antibiotics has been shown to cause Candida overgrowth in the stomach. Candida is a type of yeast/fungus that can cause the same symptoms as H pylori.
• The overgrowth of Candida can mean that your symptoms either do not improve or get worse!
• I want to make it very clear that even when you eradicate H pylori, symptoms may not go away.
• Common foods that you’re eating as well as the damage that was caused by H pylori may mean that you still have a lot of symptoms even if your test shows that the H pylori bacteria have been eradicated.
• Read the information below about diet below and at the H Pylori Diet page for more details.

Natural Programs

• Natural programmes can be highly effective against H pylori
• There are many exceptionally good products on the market
• There are also many very poor quality products on the market
• Some brands are much higher quality than others and are produced with much stricter quality control
• The quality of the same herb or supplement, e.g. Mastic Gum, can differ greatly from one manufacturer to another
• Many websites are advertising products as “miracle cures” but these claims must always be questioned

The Biggest Mistakes People Make With Natural Programmes

In my experience, patients make the following crucial mistakes with natural programs.

• They do not use supplements that are of high enough quality
• They do not take the correct dosage of the products: often the guidelines on the bottle specify only 1-2 capsules or tablets per day. This dose usually needs to be at least doubled to be effective.
• They do not use the products for long enough. Natural protocols usually need to be followed for an absolute minimum of 30-60 days. One bottle of mastic gum, for example, just won’t cut it.
• Sometimes more than one product is required, particularly if particularly difficult cased of H pylori are present.

The Essential Role Of Diet

If you have not already done so, I highly recommend that you request the H Pylori Secrets DVD clip and Two Special Reports as they will help you understand the role of diet in more detail.

I also highly recommend that you consider ordering the H Pylori Diet e-book as it contains a complete nutrition, lifestyle and botanical/herbal protocol to help you eradicate H pylori once and for all.

Here is why eating the right foods is so important when you have H pylori:

• Eating common foods like milk, pasta and bread can actually CAUSE the same symptoms as H pylori, so even if you get rid of H pylori, your symptoms may not budge.
• I’ve seen all symptoms clear simply by changing the diet of my customers and clients. See the H Pylori Diet page for testimonials and learn how you can achieve the same results.
• Some foods have been shown to inhibit the growth of H pylori and can be introduced into your diet easily.
• Herbs and supplements that are used to help eradicate H pylori will not be as effective if your diet is not optimised. In fact, you may waste a lot of money on supplements that simply don’t work if dietary considerations are not addressed first.
• Because some foods cause inflammation in your intestines, you may not be able to eradicate H pylori until the inflammation has been reduced (this can only be done by cutting out the offending foods).
• If you don’t change your diet, you may not gain relief from your symptoms, even when H pylori has gone.
• If you have Candida as well as H pylori you must alter your diet otherwise the yeast and fungal organisms may be very hard to eradicate.