Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
What is a good supplement for ulcer treatment?
A: The most famous supplement used for ulcer disease is a special form of licorice known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). This form of licorice eliminates the portion of the herb that can cause serious side effects.
Head-to-head comparison studies involving as many as 100 participants and lasting for up to 2 years suggest that DGL is more effective than the drug Tagamet at healing ulcers and keeping them from recurring.
However, DGL has not been shown to kill Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that is believed to cause ulcers. For this reason, it probably must be taken continuously to prevent ulcers.
Preliminary evidence suggests that DGL might also help protect the stomach from damage due to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Because ulcers can be dangerous, medical supervision of treatment is essential.
You may also try the Traditions of Tao herbal supplement “Abundant Energy”. Of course, discuss with your physician before beginning any new health regime.
