Peptic ulcers are open sores in the lining of the stomach, esophagus or small intestine caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Risk factors for peptic ulcers are heredity, age, a history of chronic pain, alcohol use, diabetes, stress and smoking. Symptoms include pain, burning, indigestion, gas, nausea, vomiting, weight loss and loss of appetite. A special diet cannot prevent or cure an ulcer. However, certain foods may help relieve symptoms.
Fiber
A 1997 study in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" positively associated dietary fiber intake with a decreased risk of developing peptic ulcers. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) recommends a high-fiber diet for people with peptic ulcers because it speeds recovery. Fiber is in fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes and whole grains. In addition to easing peptic ulcer discomfort, fiber benefits heart health, stabilizes blood sugar and can help control weight.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that may benefit health. An article published in the the March 2007 "Journal of Nutrition" looked at the relationship between H. pylori and probiotics and found that intake of probiotics in conjunction with antibiotic treatment improved the eradication of the bacteria. Long-term use of probiotics also lowered the risk of infection by H. pylori and development of peptic ulcers. Common sources of probiotics are yogurt, miso, tempeh, some juices and soy beverages.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are phytochemicals that are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to prevention of heart disease and cancer. A study published in March 2009 in "Molecules" found that flavonoids function as antioxidants and have protective qualities that could be therapeutic in the treatment of peptic ulcers. According to the UMMC, sources of flavonoids that may inhibit bacterial growth are apples, celery, cranberries, onions, garlic and tea.
Low-Fat Foods
Many individuals with peptic ulcers also experience gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). According to the Mayo Clinic, controlling GERD is one way to minimize symptoms associated with a peptic ulcer. Fatty foods should be limited because they increase stomach acid, which can trigger GERD and irritate peptic ulcers. Decrease dietary fat by choosing lean meats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and low-fat dairy products.
References
- "American Journal of Epidemiology"; Prospective study of diet and the risk of duodenal ulcer in men; W.H. Aldoori, et al.; 1997
- "Journal of Nutrition"; Heliobacter pylori and probiotics; D. Lesbros-Pantoflickova, I. Corthesy-Theulaz, A.L. Blum; March 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Peptic ulcer
- "Molecules"; Flavonoids with gastroprotective activity; K.S.L. Mota, et al.; March 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peptic ulcer
