Foods To Avoid When You Have A Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcers, most often a result of a heliobacter pylori infection, cause erosions of the mucosa in the stomach and first part of the small intestine. Having an H. pylori infection is the most important risk factor, but others include alcohol abuse, stress, smoking and long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. Once an ulcer is present, certain foods can cause irritation to the stomach lining and increase gastric secretions. Irritating foods may vary from person to person, but there are common foods that seem to irritate most people.

Alcohol

Many forms of gastrointestinal upset are present with the use of alcohol. Using alcohol when an ulcer is present will irritate and inflame the lining of the stomach and decrease the ability of the ulcer to heal, says PeaceHealth. Drinking alcohol will also make the stomach environment more susceptible to H. pylori infection, therefore increasing the chances of developing ulcers.

Chile Peppers

Spicy foods are typically on the do-not-eat list for people with ulcers. Peppers are included on this list because they contain capsaicin, which has been thought to cause irritation to ulcers and to deter healing. However, a 2006 study by M.N. Satyanarayana and published in the "Critical Review of Foods Science and Nutrition" suggests capsaicin actually works to inhibit H. pylori growth and heal ulcers. Everyone responds differently to spicy foods. Use these spices in moderation when an ulcer is present and avoid them if they cause stomach irritation.

Caffeine

Caffeine stimulates acidic secretions from the stomach. Increasing the acidity of the stomach will increase the pain and irritation of the ulcer, make the environment more conducive to the bacteria H. pylori and decrease an ulcer's ability to heal. Coffee, tea, sodas and even chocolate contain caffeine. Even decaf varieties of these drinks and foods can cause irritation.

Acidic Foods

Treating an ulcer often includes decreasing the acidity of the stomach, says Family Doctor. Choose less-acidic foods to aid in healing and prevention. Many fruits are high in acid. Tomatoes and citrus fruits are often the most irritating, but many fruit juices, pineapple, peaches, nectarines, apples and pears are also acidic. Foods made with vinegar may also need to be avoided during an active ulcer.

Milk

Milk and other dairy foods have historically been used to treat ulcers. Milk coats the stomach and provides temporary pain relief. However, milk also causes the stomach to secrete acid, which can worsen the ulcer, reports the Cleveland Clinic. It suggests avoiding milk when ulcers are present.