Diet for Ulcers & Gastritis

Diet for Ulcers & Gastritis
Photo Credit Lara Hata/Photodisc/Getty Images

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach. Untreated gastritis leads to stomach ulcers, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. The main cause of gastritis and stomach ulcers is infection with helicobacter pylori bacterium. Other factors that cause gastritis and ulcers include ingestion of corrosive substances, alcohol abuse and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients with stomach ulcers and gastirits should eat non-irritating foods that encourage healing of ulcers.

High Protein and Low Fat Diet

Patients with ulcers and gastritis should eat foods rich in protein, according to Gicare.com. Protein assists in the healing of sores in the stomach. Patients should ensure that the sources of protein are low in fat. Low-fat protein sources include fat-free milk, lean meats, fish, skinned poultry and soy milk. Red meat contains high amounts of saturated fats and should be used minimally. Patients should also avoid trans fats found in processed foods such as cakes, cookies, crackers, doughnuts and margarine.

Fiber

Patients with gastritis and stomach ulcers should eat foods rich in dietary fiber, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fiber aids in the healing of ulcers and gastritis and also reduces the risk developing stomach inflammation and sores. Sources of good dietary fiber include legumes, fruits and vegetables, cereals and bran. Some patients may notice increased gas pains and bloating after eating fiber-rich foods. Such patients should avoid high fiber foods.

Flavonoids and Antioxidant Rich Foods

Flavonoids are antioxidants that are found in fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids may inhibit the growth of helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes ulcers and gastritis, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Examples of flavonoids rich foods that are suitable for patients with ulcers and gastritis include celery, carrots, apples, onions and squash.

Soft Mildly Flavored Foods

Patients with ulcers and gastritis should eat soft mildly flavored foods, according to Drugs.com. Soft foods with mild flavor cause less irritation to an inflamed stomach. Examples of soft foods suitable for patients with ulcers and gastritis include rice, macaroni, oatmeal, cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, mashed squash, cooked vegetables and canned fruits.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to microorganisms found in the human gut. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, probiotics supplements may be used to prevent gastritis and stomach ulcers caused by helicobacter pylori. Probiotics supplements help suppress H.pylori infection in the stomach.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Oct 23, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries