What diet prevents Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection?

From the Guidelines

The Mediterranean diet is the most effective dietary approach to prevent H. pylori infection, as it promotes the growth of beneficial gut flora and reduces the prevalence of harmful bacteria, as shown in a recent study published in 2024 1. This diet emphasizes the consumption of whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, seafood, and olive oil, while restricting the intake of processed foods, red meat, and sweets. The high intake of fiber-rich foods in the Mediterranean diet provides a favorable environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria, which can help to reduce the risk of H. pylori infection.

Some key components of the Mediterranean diet that may help to prevent H. pylori infection include:

• High consumption of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and fiber
• High consumption of whole grains, which are rich in fiber and nutrients
• High consumption of legumes, which are rich in protein and fiber
• High consumption of nuts and seeds, which are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants
• High consumption of seafood, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein
• High consumption of olive oil, which is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants

In addition to following the Mediterranean diet, it is also important to limit the intake of processed foods, alcohol, and excessive caffeine, which can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of H. pylori infection, as suggested by a study published in 2022 1. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly before eating and ensuring food is properly prepared, are also crucial in preventing the spread of H. pylori infection, as highlighted in a review published in 2022 1.

It is essential to note that while dietary approaches can help to reduce the risk of H. pylori infection, they cannot eliminate an existing infection, which requires medical treatment with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications prescribed by a healthcare provider, as emphasized in a review published in 2022 1.

From the Research

Diet and H. pylori Infection

There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest a specific diet that prevents Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

H. pylori Eradication and NSAID Use

• The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and H. pylori infection are both risk factors for peptic ulcer disease 2, 3, 4.
• Eradication of H. pylori before NSAID treatment can decrease the occurrence of ulcers 2.
• H. pylori eradication therapy is beneficial for primary prophylaxis, but its effect on secondary prevention is modest 2.
• The interaction between H. pylori and NSAIDs is complex, and the effect of H. pylori eradication on ulcer prevention in NSAID users is not fully understood 3, 4.

Treatment of H. pylori Infection

• Treatment of H. pylori infection typically involves antibiotics, but alternative treatments such as probiotics are being explored 5.
• Intravenous antibiotics may be a feasible therapeutic alternative in the management of H. pylori, especially in patients where oral therapy is contraindicated 6.