A peptic ulcer is a sore that manifests in the lining of your stomach or the initial segment of your small intestine. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that many people have this health problem, and that you can develop multiple ulcers during your lifetime. In some cases, peptic ulcers may bleed. Before using dietary restrictions to help treat your bleeding ulcer, talk with your doctor about the merits and drawbacks of all possible therapies for this health problem.
Bleeding Ulcers
A bleeding ulcer is a serious health problem, as it can lead to anemia, or decreased red blood cells in your body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, approximately 30 percent of individuals who report to a hospital with a bleeding ulcer require either surgery or endoscopy -- an invasive procedure used to help identify the offending lesion. Certain medications are commonly used in treating bleeding ulcers, although more natural approaches -- including diet and nutrition -- may also be helpful in resolving this health problem.
Important Dietary Practices
Several dietary practices are important in treating your bleeding ulcer. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that you should increase your consumption of dark green leafy vegetables, as these foods possess an abundance of vitamin K, a nutrient required by your body for healing and blood clotting. Other beneficial foods may include cabbage juice and soft foods such as avocados, yams and squash. Consider eliminating coffee, alcohol, chocolate, fried foods, animal fats and carbonated beverages from your diet. Eating smaller meals more frequently may also be beneficial.
A Helpful Food
Cabbage, especially cabbage juice, may be a helpful food in treating your bleeding ulcer. In his book, "The World's Healthiest Foods," nutritionist and biologist George Mateljan states that raw cabbage juice has historically been used in healing peptic ulcers. The principal active constituent in cabbage juice that may account for its ability to heal your peptic ulcers is glutamine. Glutamine is an amino acid that is used for fuel by the cells lining your stomach and small intestine. A greater volume of scientific research studies using contemporary testing methods may be required to verify cabbage juice's tendency to heal bleeding ulcers.
Considerations
A bleeding ulcer is always cause for concern and should be managed by a competent health care professional. Diet restrictions are an important part of a well-rounded treatment plan for bleeding ulcers, although you should avoid resorting to diet and nutrition in place of other more commonly used treatment measures for this health problem. To gain a better understanding of the relationship between diet and bleeding ulcers, schedule an appointment with a clinical nutrition specialist.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About Peptic Ulcers
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peptic Ulcer
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The World's Healthiest Foods"; George Mateljan; 2007
