Dr. Aditya Shah
Expert In Clinical Pharmacology And Drug SafetyView moreGastric Ulcers are worldwide one of the major health issues among all groups of adults. Nowadays the issues have been observed in the younger than 30-year-old age group as well. Gastric Ulcers are a form of ulcer occurring on the lining of the gut or stomach. Now there are multitude of factors leading to gastric ulcers, but the major conversation falls regarding diet, which is true in most circumstances.
But scientifically, studies have proven that in most cases, Gastric Ulcers occur due to a bacterial infection, due to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Another major reason is over consumption of over the counter or off label painkillers. For the same reason it is advised to always consult a doctor for any minor or minor medical situation.
What you eat definitely is a deciding factor in case of gastric ulcers. A diet with heavy intake of high sodium, processed and spicy dishes can increase your chances of developing an inflammation in the gut, which will the end up as an ulcer.
Quick Symptom Guide:
| Mild Symptoms | Severe Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Mild stomach discomfort | Vomiting blood |
| Acid reflux | Black stools |
| Temporary bloating | Sudden severe abdominal pain |
Core Dietary Strategy For Gastric Ulcers
A well-balanced diet, which we studied as a concept in our school, is still the main philosophy to be followed to prevent ulcer formation. A balanced low acidic diet ensures less acidity in stomach, nurturing of good bacteria, counters harmful bacteria, and ensures faster recovery in case of any damage.
The main concept to understand here, is to manage adequate levels of digestive fluids and mucous lining for gut protection. A healthy diet will help prevent or countering formation of H. pylori, maintaining acidity levels, preventing inflammation, and facilitating repair of tissues.
What To Include:
- Probiotics such as yoghurt and fermented items.
- High Fiber
- Antioxidant rich
- Vitamin C & A
What Not To Include:
- Too spicy dishes
- Caffeine and alcoholic beverages
- Deep fried and high cholesterol items
- Acidic Fruits and Veggies
The Best Foods To Eat For Healing
➯ Probiotic-Rich Fermented Foods:
Fermented food items are the powerhouse of good gut bacteria. These good bacteria maintain healthy balance and help counter any bacterial infection. This is directly related body’s overall immune system.
Greek Yoghurt: Forms a thick wall kind of formation, actively soothing the lining of stomach and delivering essential proteins for tissue repair.
Kefir: A variety of beverage filled with live good bacteria.
Sauerkraut and Kimchi: A native dish of South Korea, but due to its rich probiotic content now consumed all across the world. Usually consumed as a form of pickle alongside main meal.
Miso and Tempeh: This is fermented soyabean chunks, easily assimilated as protein without any major jump in acid levels.
➯ High-Fiber Whole Grains And Legumes:
There’s a reason that fiber despite being a roughage is immensely good for our digestive system. Soluble fiber not only aids in better excretion but it supports in case of ulcers. Soluble-fiber form a jelly-like substance in the gut, acting as a barrier absorbing excess gastric acid and prevents acid from reaching open sores.
Oatmeal and Barley: Easily available whole grains, highly beneficial in protecting the upper gastrointestinal region with its high beta-glucan content.
Brown Rice and Quinoa: Dense with nutrients, also given the tag of superfood in some regions. These don’t give any major acid or glucose spike after intake. Filled with fiber, so makes you feel full and prevents constipation.
Lentils and Chickpeas: A good source of protein for pure vegetarian people. But their cooking method is different, involves boiling them or soaking them overnight.
➯ Vitamin A and Vitamin C-Dense Produce:
Micronutrients, though needed in small quantities, are essential for better mucous production, protection of inner gut lining and preventing ulcer formation.
Sweet Potatoes and Carrots: Filled with beta-carotene or Vitamin A, responsible for thickening mucous lining in stomach and reduce size of existing ulcer in initial stages.
Spinach and Kale: Rich source of calcium, iron, and Vitamin B to facilitate tissue repair.
Red Bell Peppers and Broccoli: Rich source of Vitamin C and sulforaphane, a highly successful compound to counter H. Pylori instantly.
➯ Lean Proteins and Essential Fatty Acids:
Proteins are the essential building blocks of our body; high protein diet ensure better recovery of tissues. Lean protein helps in quick digestion without troubling digestive fluids or raising acidity levels.
Skinless Poultry and White Fish: Simply digested by the stomach without major release of gas and minimal acid production.
Eggs and Tofu: Low fat protein foods, with minimal requirement of chewing. Initially can make you feel slightly warm but it’s the breakdown of protein.
Olive Oil and Avocados: Fulfill your fat and essential fatty acid omega-6 requirement and fighting against H. pylori.
➯ Natural Gastroprotective Remedies:
Fresh Cabbage Juice: Rich source of Vitamin U, glutamine and essential nutrients that fight against bacterial infections.
Raw Manuka Honey: Has natural form of hydrogen peroxide and anti-bacterial elements that naturally counter against any development of infection.
DE glycyrrhizinate Licorice (DGL) Tea: A variety of tea widely popular for the facilitating mucous production and protecting inner lining of gut with regular consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can Drinking Milk Help Soothe A Gastric Ulcer?
No milk does not provide any form of solution to gastric ulcers. Cold milk can immediately feel cool in the gut but later on as it digests it can worsen the ulcer.
Q. How Long Does It Take For A Gastric Ulcer To Heal With A Proper Diet?
With just a proper diet, it may take between 5 to 8 weeks for significant improvement. But it also depends on the stage of infection.
Q. Are All Raw Fruits And Vegetables Safe For People With Ulcers?
No raw fruits and veggies secret secrete acid even in low quantities that can trigger the ulcer. These take more time to digest, need more chewing and higher mechanism of digestive fluids.
Q. Can Psychological Stress Alone Cause A Gastric Ulcer?
No stress alone cannot be the reason of gastric ulcers. Your food habits primarily decide formation of any form of ulcer. However, prolonged stress can lead to weakening of immune system in the long run, making chances favorable for ulcer formation.
