Ulcers form in the digestive tract, which includes your esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Although caffeine cannot cause an ulcer, it can cause an increase in stomach acid production, resulting in ulcer pain. Avoid foods and beverages containing caffeine to decrease stomach acid production. This may even help your ulcer to heal more quickly.
Causes
The digestive tract contains a layer of mucus that protects it from the digestive juices hydrochloric acid and pepsin. When this mucus layer weakens, the digestive juices irritate the lining of the digestive tract, causing sores, otherwise known as ulcers. Most ulcers develop from an infection caused by Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can also weaken the protective mucus layer and expose the stomach lining to harmful digestive juices.
Caffeine
Products that contain caffeine can increase stomach acid production and aggravate your ulcer. Avoid beverages with caffeine, including coffee, tea, cocoa and colas. In addition, avoid chocolate, which also contains caffeine. Medications such as pain relievers, diuretics, cold remedies and weight control aids can also contain caffeine. Talk to your doctor about any prescription drugs you are taking if you think they contain caffeine. Read ingredient labels carefully when purchasing over-the-counter medications.
Ulcer Prevention
Do not smoke. Smoking slows down the healing process and increases your risk of ulcer recurrence. Your risk of developing an ulcer is higher if you smoke. If you drink, do so in moderation. Moderate alcohol use is defined as one drink per day for women, and up to two drinks per day for men. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of developing an ulcer.
Warnings
If you have an ulcer, contact your doctor if you experience nausea or vomiting, or if you feel weak or dizzy, have sudden severe pain, feel cold or clammy or keep losing weight. These could all be signs that your ulcer is getting worse. Contact your doctor immediately if you vomit blood or have dark or black stools, which may be signs that your ulcer is bleeding.
Tips
Substitute mild herbal tea for coffee, as decaffeinated coffee still has a small amount of caffeine. Drink low acid juices such as apple juice or grape juice instead of colas.
References
- University of Wisconsin---Stevens Point: Caffeine Containing Products
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Digestive Disorders, Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers (Peptic Ulcers)
- Ulcers: What You Can Do to Heal Your Ulcer
- Drugs.com: Diet for Ulcers and Gastritis---Care Guide
- MayoClinic.com: Peptic Ulcer
- Cleveland Clinic: Peptic Ulcer Disease
