By Gerard Yeo

I am a 60-year-old male and suffer from a duodenal ulcer.My stomach is bloated occasionally, causing me to feel nauseous and burp a lot.

I underwent a liver operation last year and also have hepatitis C.Can I eat yogurt and can TCM help?

Duodenal ulcers occur at the duodenum in the small intestine.

They are caused by a deficiency in the liver and stomach, and insufficient stomach 'yin'. A blockage of blood in the stomach and pathogenic factors such as heat and dampness are also responsible.

Chinese medicine, acupuncture, cupping therapy and tui-na massage can strengthen the organs and dispel the pathogenic factors. Nutgrass Galingale Rhizome (Xiangfu), Perilla Stem (Zisugeng), Finger Citrom (Foshou) and Villous Amomum Fruit (Sharen) are prescribed to reduce burping and bloatedness.

Chinese Thorowax Root (Chaihu), Orange Fruit (Zhiqiao) and White Peony Root (Baishao) strengthen the liver and enhance the circulation of energy, while Cuttlebone (Haipiaoxiao) and Yanhusuo (Yanhushuo) reduce stomach acidity and pain.

Baical Skullcap Root (Huangqin) and Cape Jasmine Fruit (Zhizi) dispel heat and dampness, while Cattail Pollen (Puhuang) and Sanchi (Sanqi) improve blood circulation in the stomach.

As yogurt is acidic, those who have recently undergone surgery or have a weak stomach are advised against taking it.

Avoid medicine such as aspirin and ibuprofen, which are anti-inflammatory and can break down the duodenum's mucus barrier, allowing acid to cause ulcers.

Do not smoke or drink alcohol as these create heat and dampness. Avoid stress as it causes excess stomach acid and liver heat and fire to develop, and reduces the stomach's 'yin'.

Do not take spicy food such as curry and chilli, tea and coffee, and citrus fruit as these create heat and phlegm.

Information provided by Ms Lim Lay Beng, a TCM physician at YS Healthcare TCM Clinic in The Adelphi.

This article was first published in The Sunday Times.