Gastroenterology: Diet for Gastritis

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that deals with the treatment of digestive system issues, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and gallbladder. It encompasses the diagnosis, therapy, and prevention of diseases affecting these organs.

When symptoms arise, the initial point of contact is often a family doctor who helps determine whether a referral to a specialist is necessary.

The first step is to gather the patient's medical history and undergo an examination. At this stage, the patient describes symptoms, their duration, type, intensity, correlations, and any relevant incidents. Additionally, information about current medication, allergies, and other existing conditions is recorded.

The doctor listens to internal organs using a stethoscope and performs palpation. In many cases, blood tests are conducted, checking various indicators in the laboratory. 

Common diagnostic procedures include gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

Gastroscopy Gastroscopy is used to diagnose diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, such as hernias, gastritis, stomach ulcers, and cancer.

Colonoscopy is employed for the examination of polyps, malignant growths in the colon, as well as chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

is another procedure endoscopy allowing for tissue biopsy, analyzed in a pathology laboratory, and the removal of polyps using electrocoagulation.

There are also less commonly used diagnostic procedures in gastroenterology, such as liver biopsy and enteroscopy. These tests are highly accurate, crucial for diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases.

Patients should consult a gastroenterologist if they experience

• stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, belching, vomiting, or hiccups

• as well as disruptions in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation)

• unexplained chest pain

• blood in stool

• abdominal pain

• anemia (low hemoglobin levels), and related symptoms (weakness, drowsiness, paleness).

Each clinic with a gastroenterology department is equipped with state-of-the-art expert-class equipment, and certification under strict hygiene standards is mandatory. Before being employed, a doctor undergoes extensive training, and specialists must regularly update their knowledge.

Diet for Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammatory process in the stomach lining, and in advanced stages, it can lead to the development of ulcers or cancer. A diet for gastritis, along with medication, can help the body return to normal.

Gastritis can be of different acidity levels—low or high. Accordingly, foods are chosen to either increase or decrease secretory function.

For gastritis with high acidity, the diet is maximally gentle. During exacerbations, only liquid foods such as milk-based soups with rice or semolina are allowed. Once the exacerbation subsides, fish and meat can be prepared without salt and spices.

For reduced secretion, it is necessary to cook chicken and meat broths to stimulate gastric juice secretion. Vegetable salads, jelly, and berry mousse are also permitted. However, smoked, fatty foods, and carbonated drinks that excessively affect secretion remain prohibited.

A properly chosen diet can help stop the inflammatory process and alleviate pain.