The duodenum is part of your digestive tract, which also includes your esophagus and stomach. Although most ulcers occur in the duodenum, they can also occur anywhere in the digestive tract. Eating certain types of food will not cause you to get an ulcer, but they can increase the production of stomach acids and prevent an ulcer from healing. Staying away from high-acid foods and any other foods that cause stomach distress will help ulcers heal.
Causes
Your digestive tract has a thick coat of mucus that protects the lining. In some cases, this mucus coat sustains damage by an increased production of stomach acids. When this occurs, digestive juices penetrate the mucus coat, causing ulcers to form in the lining. Causes of damage to the mucus coat include bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, also known as H. Pylori, and anti-inflammatories such as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. In addition, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which is a tumor that causes increased acid production, can also damage the mucus layer.
Foods to Eat
Foods that are generally well tolerated include low-fat and fat-free dairy products, apple and grape juice, mild herbal tea, rice, pasta, mashed and baked potato, bread, plain crackers, oatmeal, cream of rice and dried cereals. Eat apples, bananas, grapes, berries, peaches, pears, melons and vegetables such as carrots and squash. Also, consume lean protein such as fish, seafood, turkey, chicken and tofu. Other foods well tolerated include low-fat creamed soups, broth or bouillon and mild sauces.
Foods to Avoid
Spicy and acidic foods will increase the production of stomach acids, according to Drugs.com. Avoid foods such as black and red pepper, chili powder and all types of hot peppers. Refrain from eating or drinking any products that contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, cola and chocolate. Avoid tomato-based foods, citrus foods and juices, peppermint, onions, garlic, cinnamon and cloves. Do not eat broccoli, cabbage, dried beans or peas and avoid fatty meats and all fried foods. In addition, do not eat pickled foods and avoid spicy marinades and sauces.
Prevention
Do not smoke. Smoking not only doubles your risk of developing an ulcer, it also slows the healing process if you already have one. You should also avoid excessive alcohol use, which increases acid production and your risk of developing an ulcer, according to MayoClinic.com.
Warnings
Contact your doctor if you have vomiting, weight loss or increased pain in your stomach. These symptoms could indicate that your ulcer is getting worse. Also, contact your doctor if you have dark or black stools, which may indicate bleeding.
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