Although intestinal ulcers were once thought to result from eating spicy and acidic foods, the foods you eat do not cause them. If you have intestinal ulcers, talk with your doctor to identify the cause of your condition. Certain foods can irritate ulcers in your digestive system, and as such, you need to avoid them. After receiving a clinical diagnosis, discuss dietary changes to your diet to help treat your condition. Do not use any over-the-counter medications without the approval from your doctor.
Intestinal Ulcers
Intestinal ulcers are most likely the result of a bacterial infection. Ulcers are an erosion of the lining of your intestines that creates a hole in the protective barrier that shelters the soft tissues in your digestive system. Your stomach produces harsh acids that digest food, but could cause harm to the soft tissue beneath the protective layer. When an ulcer develops, the acids from your stomach irritate and further complicate the open sore. This can lead to stomach pain, the feeling of fullness and mild nausea.
Dietary Changes
What you eat may help alleviate some of your symptoms from an intestinal ulcer. If the ulcers are the result of a bacterial infection, you need to take antibiotics to kill the bacteria so the ulcer can heal. Some foods can trigger your symptoms including chocolate, meat extracts, alcohol, black pepper, chili pepper, coffee, tea, mustard and nutmeg. Avoid these foods and beverages until your ulcer is treated. Instead of eating three large meals, attempt to eat smaller meals more frequently because a full stomach will help protect the ulcer from exposure to harsh stomach acid.
What to Eat
Continue to eat a diet that is well-balanced, rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and drink plenty of water. If you have stomach pain and diarrhea, implement the BRAT diet. The BRAT diet is an acronym for bananas, rice, apples and toast. This diet is commonly recommended for the stomach flu and other digestive complications because these foods are easy on the stomach and help promote normal bowel movements.
Lifestyle Treatment
Although a bacterial infection is the most common cause of intestinal ulcers, your lifestyle choices may be causing the erosion in your digestive system. Smoking and chewing tobacco can increase your chances of developing intestinal ulcers. Avoid using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. Don't eat foods that are spicy or cause heartburn, which may be a sign of irritation.
