In the era of information flood, the way of health preservation is like a starry star, emerging in an endless stream, interspersed with many seemingly simple and attractive "quick-acting cheats" that are actually good and bad, leading people to reverie. For example, garlic intake is believed to be effective in removing Helicobacter pylori bacteria from the stomach, and there are high hopes that it can reduce the risk of stomach cancer, a deadly disease. Is this view really reliable?
The miraculous benefits of garlic
Garlic, a common spice in the kitchen, is favored for its unique spicy flavor and rich nutritional value. In the folk, garlic has been endowed with many miraculous effects, such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, etc. In particular, the rumor that garlic can remove Helicobacter pylori and reduce the mortality rate of stomach cancer has made many people eager to try, hoping to get rid of stomach problems.
Helicobacter pylori: The invisible killer in the stomach
First, let's learn about Helicobacter pylori (Hp). This bacterium is latent in the stomach, attaches to the gastric mucosa and its intercellular space, quietly provokes the fire of inflammation, and becomes the core initiator of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer and even gastric cancer. According to the data, H. pylori infection covers half of the population in mainland China, and this proportion increases with age, especially among people aged 50 and above, the prevalence of infection is as high as nearly 70%.
The core channel of Helicobacter pylori transmission is the digestive tract, and human beings are the only vector of disease transmission, highlighting the exclusive characteristics of interpersonal transmission. Intra-household transmission is particularly significant, so the risk of infection is higher among family members.
Antimicrobial effect of garlic: limited but present
Garlic does have significant antimicrobial properties, thanks to the synergistic effect of its rich organosulfur compounds and natural active ingredients such as flavonols. These ingredients have been shown to be effective in inhibiting the growth of some bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori, in an in vitro testing environment. However, this does not mean that eating garlic will completely eliminate H. pylori in the body.
There is a stark difference between the setting of in vitro experiments and the intricate physiological environment in living organisms. After the active ingredient in garlic enters the body, it will be affected by various factors such as stomach acid and digestive enzymes, and its antibacterial effect will be greatly reduced. Secondly, Helicobacter pylori has a strong adhesion to the gastric mucosa, and it is difficult to completely remove it by relying solely on the antibacterial components in food.
Long-term garlic consumption is associated with gastric cancer mortality
An in-depth study by Peking University, spanning 22 years, focusing on the subtle link between garlic and stomach cancer mortality, has indeed touched the public eye and sparked widespread heated discussions. The study, which tracked the eating habits of more than 5,000 volunteers, found that people who consumed garlic for a long time had a lower mortality rate from stomach cancer. However, this finding is not enough to assert that garlic is a lone hero in reducing the risk of stomach cancer, and there may be other reasons for this.
The research team pointed out that this finding may be the result of a combination of factors, including the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of garlic, as well as the influence of other factors such as dietary habits and lifestyle. In addition, everyone's physical condition and eating habits are different, and the prevention effect of garlic on stomach cancer will also vary from person to person.
Helicobacter pylori eradication: formal treatment is key
Since garlic can't completely eliminate Helicobacter pylori, how should we deal with it? The answer is unequivocal: systematic treatment in accordance with professional medical practices.
At present, the "golden rule" of H. pylori testing is recognized by the global medical community as C13 and C14 breath tests, both of which are known for their ease of operation, excellent accuracy and zero risk of cross-infection. After the infection is confirmed, it is important to initiate a standardized and systematic treatment process under the guidance of a professional medical team.
The common treatment regimen in mainland China is bismuth-containing quadruple therapy, which is a combination of one proton pump inhibitor (PPI), bismuth and two antibiotics, and the whole treatment cycle is generally set at 10 to 14 days. This treatment regimen can significantly curb the proliferation of H. pylori and accelerate its clearance in the body. However, in view of the risk of antibiotic resistance of H. pylori, the selection of the first treatment strategy is crucial.
Both prevention and treatment are emphasized
Separate meal sharing system: Family members should practice the principle of separate meals and eliminate sharing of food utensils to reduce the potential risk of cross-infection.
Pay attention to oral health management: change the toothbrush frequently to maintain a clean oral environment to reduce the ability of Helicobacter pylori to stay in the oral cavity.
Balanced diet: Advocate more fresh fruits and vegetables and reduce the consumption of high-salt, smoked, and pickled foods to reduce the potential threat of gastric cancer.
Regular physical examination: People with gastrointestinal symptoms or a family history of gastric cancer should have regular Helicobacter pylori testing and gastroscopy for early detection and treatment.
In this era of information overflow, we should learn to distinguish between truth and falsehood and arm ourselves with scientific knowledge. Regarding the relationship between garlic and Helicobacter pylori and stomach cancer, we have a clear understanding: although garlic is good, it is not a substitute for formal treatment. In the face of illness, we should follow the doctor's advice and take scientific and effective measures to protect our health.
I'm Dr. Xie, welcome everyone to like and follow, and say your views in the comment area, let's chat