Ulcers are open sores which occur in the body's mucous membrane areas and also on the skin. Stomach ulcers appear in several locations and have different causes. Medical science today knows more about stomach ulcers, including the causes and the most effective treatments. Doctors once believed that diet and stress caused ulcers and often recommended that patients avoid greasy, spicy or highly acidic foods. Dietary changes can help, but food recommendations are based addressing the true causes of ulcers.
Stomach Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are located in the lining of the duodenum or the stomach, both places where pepsin and hydrochloric acid occur. A gastric ulcer is located in the stomach. A duodenal ulcer is located in the duodenum, which is part of the small intestine near the stomach. Bacterial infections caused by helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, cause most gastric and duodenal ulcers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, pepsin, acid and lifestyle choices contribute to the development of ulcers. Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can cause ulcers if used for longer periods of time.
Diet
Most people with stomach or duodenal ulcers are not helped by changes in their diets, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, although they should avoid foods that cause discomfort and foods that increase acid production. While the bland diet that was recommended in the past is not helpful as a treatment for peptic ulcers, dietary changes can reduce your risk of developing an ulcer and, in some people, alleviate the symptoms.
Food Choices
A high-fiber diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of developing an ulcer and improve recovery of an existing ulcer. Foods that contain flavonoids -- such as cranberries, apples, garlic, onions, celery and tea -- might slow the growth of the H. pylori bacteria. Dietary choices -- such as spicy foods, alcohol, coffee and carbonated beverages - that increase acid production in the stomach can increase the risk of developing an ulcer and worsen the symptoms for people who have ulcers.
Healthy Habits
A healthy diet that includes a wide variety of foods can help heal an ulcer. Whole grains and foods high in vitamins and other important nutrients provide your body with the resources it needs for healing functions, such as combating infection. The bacteria that cause peptic ulcers may be spread through food. You can avoid infections, such as those caused by H. pylori, by making sure that your food is free of bacteria and fully cooked before eating.
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