A specific diet doesn't exist to treat duodenal and gastric ulcers. Still, a variety of dietary conditions may decrease symptoms related to the condition. Gastric and duodenal ulcers are forms of peptic ulcers. Gastric ulcers occur in the stomach, while duodenal ulcers form in the first portion of the upper intestine. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, it is possible to suffer from both types of ulcers at the same time. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and Helicobacter pylori bacteria are the two most common causes of ulcers. Symptoms include abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea and vomiting.
Alcohol and Caffeine
Both alcohol and caffeinated drinks may further aggravate an ulcer. Avoid beverages containing the two irritants. If you caffeine, such as a morning cup of coffee, is a regular part of your morning routine, consume the beverage in small amounts and only on a full stomach. Don't forget that decaffeinated products contain small amounts of caffeine. For example, a brewed 8 oz. cup of coffee contain between 2 and 12 mg of caffeine, reports MayoClinic.com. Chocolate, coffee ice cream and some types of medication and contain caffeine. It remains undetermined if high alcohol consumption directly causes a peptic ulcer or contributes to the condition. Alcohol increases stomach acid production. Greater amounts of stomach acid may irritate an ulcer and increase pain and other symptoms related to the condition. Regular use of alcohol may prevent an ulcer from fully healing, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Meal Times and Amounts
It is important to eat several small meals and snacks throughout the day and avoid periods of hunger. Aim to eat five to six times instead of three staple meals. Keeping your stomach from going empty decreases irritation caused by stomach acid and allows the ulcer to heal.
Dairy Products
Many people believe drinking milk may heal a stomach ulcer. Though a glass of milk can decrease pain and discomfort associated with an ulcer, it will not heal the condition. Milk and other dairy products may actually increase stomach acid and ulcer irritation, reports the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Foods to Avoid and Prevention
Certain foods should be avoided when suffering from an ulcer. Decrease the amount of red meat in your diet and include greater amounts of lean meat, seafood or tofu. Do not eat foods high in fat such as processed foods or fast foods. Refined foods such as white bread, pastas and sugars should also be eliminated.
To reduce the risk of H. pylori infection, increase sanitation before eating and when preparing food. Only drink sanitized water from a clean source. Eat meats and other foods safely prepared including washing and cooking. Always wash your hands with soap and water prior to consuming food. Always eat food when taking NSAIDs.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Ulcers: What Can You Do to Heal an Ulcer?
- Mayo Clinic: Caffeine Content for Coffee, Tea, Soda and More
- Mayo Clinic: Peptic Ulcer: Causes
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peptic Ulcer
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About Peptic Ulcers
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