For ages, we have been rice water in different ways. But did you know that you can use rice water for gastritis? Keep reading to learn more.
What is Gastritis?
Gastritis is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Your stomach has a mucosal membrane lining that protects it from the strong acids present in it that help digest food. Sometimes, this lining can get damaged or weakened, causing the acids in the stomach to attack and inflame the lining. The damage can result from a bacterial infection due to the continuous use of certain pain-relieving medications, excess alcohol consumption, or habitual smoking.
The bacteria Helicobacter pylori is the most common cause of gastritis. Old age, stress, Crohn’s disease, and autoimmune disorders are other risk factors for gastritis. Gastritis can be an acute or chronic condition.
Symptoms of Gastritis Include
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating
- Stomach ulcer
- Weight loss
If you don’t treat gastritis, it can lead to anemia if you develop ulcers that bleed. Ulcers that perforate your stomach wall can lead to peritonitis and sepsis, which can even be fatal. Sometimes, gastritis can even lead to the development of stomach cancer.
Prevention
You can treat gastritis by making some dietary changes. Besides, you can prevent gastritis by limiting your caffeine intake and avoiding spicy, fatty, fried, and acidic foods. Furthermore, you can avoid stress, alcohol, cigarettes, sugar and limit the excessive use of pain-relieving drugs. Moreover, eat smaller meals at regular intervals throughout the day and avoid lying down immediately after a meal.
Rice Water for Gastritis
Rice water is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It provides energy, eases digestion, and has probiotics that increase good gut bacteria. Rice water reduces inflammation while relieving pain and treats bloating associated with gastritis. It is a natural, safe, and inexpensive remedy for gastritis. This remedy is suitable for all age groups, even young children.
How to Use
You will need:
- 1 cup of rice
- 6 cups of water
Cook the rice till they are soft, which should take about half an hour. Allow the rice to cool down slightly. Strain the rice and store the water in a glass bottle. Refrigerate the water and slightly warm it whenever you wish to consume it. Drink at least 3 cups of rice water daily till you get relief from the symptoms of gastritis.
Other Home Remedies
1. Carrot and Celery
Carrot and celery have anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in minerals and vitamins. Blend 2 carrots and two celery stalks with a glass of water. Drink this along with your lunch or dinner to ease the symptoms of gastritis and other stomach-related issues.
2. Apple and Chamomile
An infusion of apple and chamomile reduces stomach acidity and inflammation while fighting infection and curing nausea. Add finely peeled and chopped apple pieces to a glass of boiling water. Boil till the apple becomes soft. Now, add one teaspoon of dried chamomile. Let it infuse for a few minutes before straining the mixture and drinking the infused water.
3. Ginger and Pear Juice
This provides relief from gastritis as ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Pears are easy to digest, provide vitamins and minerals, and are anti-inflammatory. Peel and chop a pear and add it with 1 oz of chopped ginger to 300 ml of water. Boil the mixture for a few minutes till the pear becomes soft. Cool the mixture slightly and blend it with a blender and drink the juice several times a day.
When to See Your Doctor
See your doctor immediately if you have bloody stools, blood in vomit, extreme fatigue, or suffer unexplained weight loss. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the cause of gastritis is an infection. Antacids help reduce inflammation, while some medications help reduce acid production in your stomach.