Ulcers are sores that can form in any portion of your digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. What you eat cannot cause an ulcer, but it can prolong the healing process. No single diet works for everyone since people react to foods differently, but there are some foods that may increase the production of stomach acids and further aggravate your ulcer. Consume foods that are easily digested and mildly spiced and avoid spicy, fatty foods to decrease ulcer pain and help your ulcer heal.
Proteins
Consume lean meats including poultry and seafood, and eat meat alternatives, such as tofu. Eat eggs, peanut butter and dairy products that are low-fat or fat-free. Do not eat meats that are fried, greasy or highly seasoned, including sausage, salami, bacon and ham. In addition, do not consume dried, cooked beans, such as pinto, kidney and navy, if they cause you to experience excess gas or discomfort.
Starches and Grains
Eat dried cereals and consume hot cereals, such as cream of wheat and oatmeal. Eat potatoes that are baked or mashed and avoid fried foods, such as french fries. Consume pasta, rice, bread, rolls and crackers, and avoid products flavored with hot peppers, onions and garlic, which may increase stomach acid production.
Fruits and Vegetables
Certain fruits and vegetables do not digest well and are best avoided completely, or eaten in very limited amounts. Avoid fruits and vegetables that contain high levels of acid and may cause increased amounts of stomach acids. Examples include citrus fruits, such as oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, lemons, limes and all citrus juices. Eat fruits that contain lower levels of acid instead, such as apples, peaches, pears, grapes, kiwi, melons, bananas and berries. Do not drink vegetable juices, and do not eat tomatoes or tomato-based foods, which are also high in acid. Avoid spicy vegetables, such as chili peppers, onions and garlic, and do not consume any foods that cause discomfort.
Beverages
Drink a minimum of 6 to 8 cups of fluids each day. Drink apple juice, grape juice, mild herbal teas, water and caffeine-free beverages. Do not consume any beverages containing mint, such as peppermint and spearmint and do not drink alcohol. Also, avoid all beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee, tea, soda and hot cocoa.
