Cómo disfrutar la cena grupal sin llevar alimentos extra

Publication: Popular Science China

Author: Wang Juelian

Producer: Guangdong Provincial Association for Science and Technology

During festivities, family and friend gatherings are inevitable, and culinary delights are a must at the table. However, Helicobacter pylori, this 'invisible thief', lurks, ready to accompany you 'home'. Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that resides in the stomach and can adhere to the gastric mucosa, producing a series of enzymes and toxins that cause damage to the mucosa and inflammatory reactions, potentially leading to gastritis, peptic ulcers, and other diseases. Additionally, infection with Helicobacter pylori is closely related to the onset of gastric cancer. Although infections with this bacterium do not present clear symptoms, they often cause discomfort such as abdominal distension, stomach pain, nausea, and bad breath. Sharing dishes and toasting are among the main ways Helicobacter pylori is transmitted. Therefore, in this context, it is essential to understand how to prevent Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. Below, we will focus on how to effectively prevent HP infection during group meals.

Individual dining system or use of communal chopsticks and spoons.

During group meals, to reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to implement an individual serving system or use communal utensils. The individual serving system ensures that each person has their own dishes and food, effectively avoiding cross-contamination. The use of communal utensils ensures that when taking food, there is no contact with the saliva of others, thereby reducing the likelihood of bacteria transmission.

Pay attention to food hygiene.

Choose restaurants with good hygiene and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods that may carry bacteria. Additionally, try to avoid eating foods that are not fully cooked, as it cannot be ruled out that these foods contain Helicobacter pylori. Also, pay attention to the disinfection and cleanliness of utensils, ensuring that they are thoroughly washed before use.

Strengthen personal hygiene habits.

Developing good personal hygiene habits is key to preventing HP infection. Fecal-oral transmission is one of the contagion routes. It is crucial to wash hands well before eating and after using the bathroom, avoiding touching the mouth, nose, and eyes with dirty hands. Furthermore, regularly brushing teeth and rinsing the mouth, as well as undergoing dental cleanings when necessary, can reduce the risk of infection.

Avoid oral-to-oral transmission routes.

Transmission of Helicobacter pylori (HP) is one of the main methods of infection. Therefore, practices such as mouth-to-mouth feeding or kissing should be avoided. Parents should avoid feeding their children mouth-to-mouth to prevent transmitting germs. Additionally, it is advisable to reduce close contact with family members or friends infected with HP, or to suggest they undergo appropriate eradication treatment.

Boost immunity.

Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. In clinical practice, we have observed that in couples who have lived together for decades, one spouse may be infected with HP while the other may be free of this infection. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and ensure adequate sleep to strengthen the immune system. At the same time, maintaining a good attitude and optimistic emotions also contributes to improving immunity and reducing the risk of infections.

Traditional Chinese medicine considers that the basis of Helicobacter pylori (HP) disease lies in the weakness of the spleen and stomach, while the local mechanism of the disease is related to obstruction by heat and humidity, with HP categorized as a 'malignant energy of heat and humidity'. Therefore, although HP is an infectious disease, it is not necessarily contracted just by sharing food with friends who test positive for HP. In the context of spleen and stomach weakness, combined with obstruction by damp heat, or after being infected with the malignant energy of heat and humidity, there may be Qi stagnation, clinically manifesting with symptoms of indigestion such as stomach distension and nausea. This can lead to blood stasis, resulting in an inability to perform functions, which, if untreated, could lead to atrophy of the gastric mucosa and intestinal metaplasia, and even the occurrence of gastric cancer (in some cases, this may develop into gastric MALT lymphoma), which is the pathological basis according to traditional Chinese medicine. Therefore, the traditional Chinese treatment for HP primarily focuses on clearing heat and detoxifying, as well as strengthening the spleen and eliminating dampness.

Here are some simple dietary therapy recommendations to prevent and treat HP (Helicobacter pylori) infection: 1. Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial properties and can boost immunity. It can be eaten raw or added to dishes. 2. Green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and helps inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori. Drinking one to two cups of green tea daily is recommended. 3. Honey: Especially honey from Mistletoe tea, has excellent antibacterial effects. It can be taken on an empty stomach every morning. 4. Yogurt: Yogurt with active probiotics helps maintain gut health. A moderate amount should be consumed daily. 5. Apples: Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which can help enhance gut immunity. Eating one apple daily is advised. 6. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects and can be consumed as tea or added to dishes. 7. Carrots: Carrots are rich in β-carotene, which helps boost immunity. They can be eaten raw or juiced. Please note that dietary therapy is only an auxiliary measure; in case of severe infection, medical attention should be sought promptly and follow doctors' advice.

1. Dandelion tea.

Dandelion belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a perennial herb. It has properties to clear heat and detoxify, reduce inflammation, and dissolve lumps. It has a soothing and regulatory effect for those suffering from diseases like pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, mumps, gastroenteritis, and cholecystitis. Additionally, it has an auxiliary therapeutic effect in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (HP).

Consumption method: Take 10 to 30 grams of dandelion and put it in water to prepare an infusion.

Cautions: Individuals with yang deficiency and cold constitution should use this remedy with caution as it is slightly cooling in nature. Its consumption on an empty stomach is not recommended for those with a cold stomach.

2. Sanhuang tea to reduce heat.

Sanhuang includes Chuanxiong, Huangqin, and Dahuang. Research conducted both internally and externally suggests that these three medicines have a significant therapeutic effect on Helicobacter pylori (HP).

Recommended use: 5 grams of coptis, 5 to 10 grams of scutellaria, 5 grams of rhubarb, with a tablespoon of honey dissolved in water to be taken as tea, 1 to 2 times a day.

Cautions: ① This tea is bitter and cold, so it is not recommended for individuals with clear symptoms of dampness and heat; ② After consumption, diarrhea and increased frequency of bowel movements may occur; if necessary, the dose can be reduced or discontinued; ③ It is best consumed after meals and is not suitable for patients with bean disease.

Note: The teas mentioned above are cooling, and it is advisable to consume them under the guidance and evaluation of a traditional Chinese doctor.

In summary, increased group dining can facilitate Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection, so prevention is essential. Measures such as using individual plates and utensils, paying attention to food hygiene, strengthening personal hygiene habits, avoiding direct transmission routes, and enhancing immunity can effectively reduce the risk of infection. In case of HP infection, there is no need to worry, as appropriate treatment, complemented by Chinese herbal infusions, can allow for a life free from 'helicobacter' while maintaining gastric health.

Content by: Guangdong Provincial Association for Science and Technology.

Content resources are provided by the project unit.