Ulcers are open sores in the lining of your digestive tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine. Although ulcers can develop anywhere along the digestive tract, they usually form in the upper portion of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Although most ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection, not by the foods you eat, the proper diet may help reduce symptoms of ulcers.
Foods to Avoid
Caffeine can increase the production of stomach acid, which can irritate an ulcer, exacerbating symptoms. Avoiding or limiting caffeine-rich foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, soda and chocolate, can help reduce severity of symptoms. Spicy foods and seasonings, such as chili powder, hot peppers, chilies and black pepper can irritate your stomach lining and make your symptoms worse. Avoiding these foods and spices can help promote healing of the stomach lining and reduce your symptoms. Avoid red meat, refined carbohydrates and processed foods as much as possible.
Foods to Eat
Low-fat or fat-free dairy products can help control the production of stomach acid, reducing your symptoms, according to Drugs.com. Limit dairy products to no more than three servings per day. Fiber-rich foods, such as beans, whole grains, vegetables and fruit, can also help control your condition. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that foods that contain a substance called flavonoids, such as cranberries, cranberry juice, apples, celery, onions and garlic, can help inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, the bacterium responsible for the formation of most ulcers. Use healthy oils, such as olive oil and vegetable oil, as a fat source, rather than butter, which contains saturated fat. Choose lean meats, beans and fish as a protein source.
Other Recommendations
If you have ulcers, it may be better to eat three large meals a day, rather than several small meals. Eating regularly throughout the day can increase the production of stomach acid, which can aggravate your symptoms.
It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of fluid. Drink 6 to 8 cups of water and other caffeine-free liquids, such as herbal tea and low-acid juices, like apple and pear juice.
Considerations
There is no single diet plan that works for everyone with ulcers. You may need to experiment with different foods to determine the foods that you tolerate best and to put together your own personal diet plan. Enlisting the help of a dietitian can make it easier to plan a diet that does not aggravate your ulcers, but still meets your nutritional needs.
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