Living with ulcers and other conditions that are inflamed by stomach-acid is no fun at all. The discomfort and pain can sideline daily activities and make eating quite difficult. If a secret weapon is needed to make a difference in the condition, a pharmacy might not need to be the destination of choice. A grocery store that sells bananas or plantains might actually have something better.
Research has shown that bananas have a particularly interesting effect on ulcerated stomachs and the handling of stomach acid in general. This simple fruit is used in many areas to both prevent acid-related conditions and treat them if they do arise.
Understanding Ulcers
Ulcers are sores that form in the lining of the stomach, esophagus or small intestine. While they are commonly caused by bacteria, stomach acid production can inflame them and sometimes promote their creation. This condition can produce symptoms such as:
- Pain – Abdominal pain is the most commonly noted symptom of an ulcer. It can last for minutes or for several hours.
- Nausea – An upset stomach, vomiting and a loss of appetite are also frequently associated with ulcers. Weight loss can coincide with this, as well.
In extreme cases, ulcers have been known to bleed and cause more serious complications. Treating them is important, but so is taking preventative measures.
Why Bananas?
Bananas and their cousins plantains have long been used in natural food medicine to treat ulcers and other acid-related conditions. Medical research has found that these fruits do have an ability to make a difference in these conditions. In fact, a medication is used in India that is produced from plantain powder. This drug, Musapep, has a 70 percent success rate in treating the symptoms associated with ulcers.
Consumption of bananas doesn’t necessarily cut down on acid production in the stomach. Instead, it better positions the stomach to handle acid. Research has shown that eating bananas and cooked plantains stimulates the growth of cells and mucus to better line the stomach against acid. This, in turn, prevents ulcers in the first place and can treat them if they are already present. Basically, bananas help the stomach lining form a tougher barrier against acid.
Why Try The Banana Cure?
While the banana cure for ulcers might seem odd, there are a variety of reasons why consumption of this particular fruit is worth a try. Not only can bananas help better line the stomach and digestive tract to protect against acid, they are also:
- High in nutritional value – Bananas are very rich in vitamin B, vitamin C and potassium. They are such an excellent source of potassium, in fact, they are strongly recommended for people with electrolyte imbalances.
- Known to prevent other illnesses – Consumption of bananas has been linked with the prevention of such conditions as high blood pressure, kidney stones, breast cancer, colorectal cancer and renal cell carcinoma.
- Are less expensive than other options – Bananas cost very little by the pound and make this particular preventative and treatment option quite affordable.
When the lining of the stomach is weak or it has already been damaged by ulcers, protecting it from further harm from stomach acid is a must. Eating bananas every day just might help keep the doctor away and tackle acid concerns at the same time. While this fruit might not always get the job done, the benefits of adding them to the daily routine are without question.
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