A stomach ulcer can change the way a person eats. Strict diet plans are not always prescribed for ulcers because foods affect people in different ways. In theory, all foods can be eaten with an ulcer but certain foods have a reputation for aggravating ulcers and increasing the amount of pain, burning, indigestion, gas, nausea, vomiting and weight loss associated with ulcers. Other foods may help prevent and ease symptoms of an ulcer.
Fibrous Foods
Fruits, vegetables, bean, legumes and whole grains are high in fiber. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) high-fiber diets can speed up recovery from an ulcer. Examples of whole grains include brown rice, barley, whole grain bread and pasta, quinoa, bulgur, oats and cornmeal. Fruits and vegetables in particular are also high in flavonoids, a chemical found in plants. The UMMC says flavonoids can inhibit the growth of H. Pylori, the bacteria that causes ulcers. Foods high in flavonoids include apples, celery, cranberries, onion, garlic and tea.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that benefit health. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says probiotics can help create a favorable environment that prevents growth of H. Pylori. Probiotics are available as supplements but are also in yogurt, miso, tempeh and some juices and beverages made from soy.
Low-Fat Foods
According to the Mayo Clinic, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), an intestinal disorder, can increase symptoms of an ulcer. One way to control GERD is to limit fatty foods like deep-fried foods and foods made with a lot of butter, oil, cream and lard. Foods that are naturally low in fat include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Low-fat proteins include chicken, turkey, eggs, fish, seafood, soy, beans, legumes, nuts and lean meats like pork tenderloin and ground beef that is over 90 percent fat-free.
Bland Foods
The Mayo Clinic says spicy and acidic foods can aggravate ulcers because they increase the production of stomach acid. Foods that are often highly spiced include ethnic foods like Mexican, Thai, Korean and Ethiopian foods and foods made with chilies. High-acid foods include vinegar, citrus fruits and pineapple. Bland foods are easy to digest and can prevent discomfort caused by ulcers. Examples of bland foods are plain rice and grains, non-citrus fruits and vegetables, proteins that have been simply seasoned with salt and pepper and low-fat dairy products.
Beverages
The best beverages for a person with ulcers are water, non-citrus fruit juice, decaffeinated tea, sports drinks and milk. According to the UMMC carbonated beverages, caffeinated beverages, coffee and alcohol can aggravate ulcers and worsen symptoms.
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