Ulcers commonly occur from a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori or the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen. Ulcers can form in the lining of your digestive tract -- which includes your stomach, esophagus and duodenum -- when the protective coating in the tract suffers from erosion. This erosion allows digestive juices to make contact with the sensitive lining and form an ulcer. Although the foods you eat will not cause an ulcer, they may increase ulcer symptoms and delay healing. Consuming foods that are low in fat, low in acid and mild in flavor can reduce ulcer pain and help your ulcer heal. Since everyone reacts to foods differently, no specific, single ulcer diet is recommended.
Meats and Dairy
Stay away from meats that are spicy or high in fat. Do not eat bacon or sausage and avoid meats that are drenched in spicy marinades and sauces. Consume lean meats such as fish and poultry, and eat vegetarian choices such as tofu. Do not eat fried meats or any other fried foods and avoid cooking with added fats. Limit your intake of milk and dairy products. If you choose to consume milk and dairy products, skip whole milk varieties and choose skim or low-fat varieties to help control the amount of stomach acid produced.
Starches and Grains
Consume starches and grains without condiments and without sauces that are spicy or high in fat. Eat pasta, rice, potatoes, breads, cereals and all other grains that agree with you. Use caution when eating legumes, such as dried beans, peas and lentils. Legumes may cause increased gas; avoid them if you experience pain or discomfort.
Fruits and Vegetables
Eat fruits that are low in acid. Consume apples, berries, melons, grapes and kiwi. Avoid citrus fruits -- such as oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons and limes -- as they may cause heartburn and esophageal pain. Drugs.com advises that you stay away from foods that can further irritate the lining of your stomach -- such as hot peppers -- and avoid tomatoes or tomato-based foods, onions or garlic. In addition, refrain from consuming gassy vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, if they cause you discomfort.
Beverages
Do not consume alcohol and avoid all beverages that contain caffeine; these include coffee, tea, sodas, energy drinks and cocoa. These beverages may increase stomach acid production and cause you to experience further discomfort. In addition, do not consume citrus or vegetable juices. Drink herbal teas and juices that are low in acid. Good choices are apple and grape juice. Be sure to consume 8 cups of water each day.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peptic Ulcer; Steven D. Ehrlich; Sept. 20, 2009
- FamilyDoctor.org; Ulcers: What You Can Do to Heal Your Ulcer; January 2011
- Drugs.com: Diet for Ulcers and Gastritis
- MayoClinic.com; Peptic Ulcer; Mayo Clinic staff; Jan. 6, 2011
- Cleveland Clinic; Peptic Ulcer Disease; Oct. 19, 2008
