A stomach ulcer is a painful condition that stems from when there is an open wound in the stomach. These sores occur when the acid from the stomach damages its walls, causing the open wound then.
Consequently, the sores lead to pain, which might get worse when you eat spicy, cheesy food, or take pain killers or stress.
The stomach ulcers are caused either due to infection owing to helicobacter pylori, also referred to as H.pylori or also because of the over-use of NSAIDs –nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – as well.
For the treatment of stomach ulcers, you should consult a Gastroenterologist, as managing the disease is imperative for to prevent it from aggravating and thus allowing the wound to heal.
Diet with stomach ulcer
Whereas diet does not cause ulcers, and neither does it heal the ulcer, it plays a role in exacerbating the condition. Some foods help feed the bacteria, which then makes the condition worse. Similarly, some foods can irritate the wound, causing more pain as a result.
Moreover, a good diet also helps the body heal faster, by providing nutrients that are imperative to the body’s healing. Furthermore, some people might not be able to eat properly on account of the pain. A good diet that does not contribute to pain but provides the body with nutrients is important then.
Foods you should take with stomach ulcer
Bread: A dietary staple, bread is not only good for soaking the excess acid, but when you take whole grain bread, then you also add fiber to the diet.
Certain herbs and spices: There are some herbs and spices that can help with the healing. They include some good anti-inflammatory agents that then aid in healing. Likewise, some herbs and spices also have anti-microbial properties. You should eat these in moderation, as too much might then lead to acid reflux, exacerbating the condition. Herbs and spices that you can try include cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and garlic.
Certain vegetables: Rich in antioxidants, vegetables are good for healing. Likewise, vegetables including green leafy ones and orange vegetables are effective for healing. Try to cook these vegetables, as raw vegetables are harder to digest.
Green tea: Not only is the tea soothing, but it is also good for keeping the infection in check.
Fiber: Dietary fiber is not just food for to add bulk to the diet, but it also aids in soaking up the excess acid, which can lead to reprieve from the pain. Furthermore, fiber is also effective for to prevent ulcers.
Good sources of fiber include fruits and vegetables. You can also use insoluble fiber as well.
Lean protein: Your body needs protein for the formation of new cells, and thus it plays a role in the process of healing. You can then try skinless poultry and beef for to get adequate nutrition and allow your condition to improve.
Probiotics: Foods that are a good source of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, etc. These good bacteria then help in keeping the infection-causing bacteria in check and thus allow the medication to work better as a result.
Vitamin A rich foods: As vitamin A helps in increasing mucus production, it then forms a protective lining in the stomach, preventing the wound from getting irritated. Foods that are a good source of vitamin A include broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, etc.
Vitamin C: This vitamin plays a key role in wound healing and cellular repair. Foods that are good for ulcers include green leafy vegetables, red bell pepper, etc.
Foods that are not good
Just as certain foods can help in improving your condition, some of those might also exacerbate your symptoms of stomach ulcers. Common culprits to steer clear of include spicy foods like chilis, too much sodium, milk, coffee, and alcohol.
If your symptoms are not improving, despite everything, you should seek the help of your Gastroenterologist in Islamabad then.