Unwelcome Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores or eroded areas that form in the lining of the esophagus, stomach or small intestine. Ulcers that occur in the stomach are known as gastric ulcers. Ulcers occurring in the duodenum (the beginning of the small intestine) are known as duodenal ulcers.Peptic ulcer disease, in which remissions and exacerbations of ulcers occur, represents a chronic health problem.

Signs and Symptoms

Some individuals with peptic ulcers don’t experience any symptoms, while others experience varying amounts of pain. The pain associated with an ulcer may:

Other symptoms include weight loss, poor appetite, bloating, burping, nausea and vomiting.

Causes

Most peptic ulcers are known to be caused by a bacterial infection. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the bacteria implicated in the vast majority of cases. Use of over-the-counter and prescription painkillers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also cause peptic ulcers. Other medications are currently being studied for their role in peptic ulcer development.

DGL: A Natural Solution

An extremely effective natural supplement for ulcers is a form of licorice root that has been specially processed. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is an important component of a complementary natural health approach – and clinical studies prove it works!

DGL is a special extract of licorice from which the glycyrrhizin molecules have been removed, leaving biologically active flavonoids. The value of DGL over other forms of licorice is that it eliminates adverse effects associated with long-term use of very high doses of conventional licorice (including sodium and water retention, high blood pressure and low potassium levels). Licorice root extract stimulates the release of secretin, which has a protective effect on the gastric mucosa. The body’s production of secretin by such natural agents may play a significant role in their mucosal protective action. In fact, researchers attribute the anti-ulcer effect of licorice root extract to its unique ability to stimulate the body to release endogenous secretin, which helps to rebuild the stomach or intestine’s protective lining.

Use of DGL addresses the underlying factors and promotes true healing by stimulating the normal defense mechanisms that prevent ulcer formation. Specifically, DGL improves both the quality and quantity of the protective substances that line the intestinal tract.

DGL—The Customer's Perspective

Look for a chewable form of DGL, as its ingredients should mix with saliva to promote release of compounds that stimulate the growth and regeneration of stomach and intestinal cells.

For treatment of peptic ulcers, take 760 to 1,520 mg of DGL (or 400 mg of an extra-strength extract) between, or 20 minutes before, meals. Use for eight to 16 weeks, or as recommended by your health care professional.