What is Ulcer?

A stomach ulcer is also known as peptic ulcer. It is a painful sore occurs in the lining of the stomach, esophagus or small intestine. It happens when stomach acid damages the lining of the digestive tract. It is caused mainly due to the bacteria Helicobacter Pylori and anti-inflammatory pain relievers like aspirin. The bacteria H. Pylori is already present in our body. Some ulcers happen due to these crucial reasons, including stress, bad diet, smoking, alcohol use, diabetes, and a history of chronic pain, heredity and age. Here in this article, we will discuss all about the stomach ulcer diet.

Stomach Ulcer Diet: Foods to Eat if you have Ulcers

The ulcer is treatable. Doctors are usually given antibiotics to kill the bacteria while you are having an ulcer. Otherwise the best way of controlling ulcer is to choose foods carefully. If you choose right food, then there will be no stomach acid, which can provoke the stomach ulcer. You should eat small portion meals after every two to three hours. You should avoid eating large portion meals at a time, large meals are difficult to digest and it produces large amounts of stomach acid.

Here is a list of foods which may be helpful against ulcer causing bacteria:

• Cauliflower
  
• Cabbage
  
• Radishes
  
• Apples
  
• Blueberries
  
• Raspberries
  
• Blackberries
  
• Strawberries
  
• Cherries
  
• Bell Peppers
  
• Carrots
  
• Broccoli
  
• Leafy Greens such as Kale and Spinach
  
• Probiotic-Rich Foods such as Yogurt, Kefir, Miso, Sauerkraut, Kombucha and Kimchi
  
• Olive Oil and other Plant-Based Oils
  
• Honey
  
• Garlic
  
• Decaffeinated Green Tea
  
• Licorice
  
• Turmeric
  
• Chicken or Turkey by removing the fatty skin
  
• Oily fish like Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines
  

Benefits of Stomach Ulcer Diet.

Fiber-rich foods give you a healthy digestive system and it reduces the risk of developing an ulcer. As per the National Institutes of Medicine Food and Nutrition Board, it is recommended for men to consume 30 to 38 gm of fiber and for women to consume 21 to 25 gm of fiber daily. We need protein in our body. Chicken and turkey contain protein. Fishes contain Omega 3 Fatty acids, which reduce the risk of ulcer by protecting the thin lining of the stomach and intestines.

Foods to Avoid if you have Ulcers

Foods to control when you have acid reflux and an ulcer:

• Coffee
  
• Chocolate
  
• Spicy food
  
• Alcohol
  
• Smoking
  
• Acidic foods, such as citrus and tomatoes
  
• Caffeine
  
• Red Meat
  
• Dairy products which are high in fat
  
• Reduce your salt intake
  

Overeating and eating before bedtime can cause acid reflux which can lead to an ulcer. You are suggested to drink in moderation. For men 14 drinks per week (2 drinks per day) whereas for women 9 drinks per week and for pregnant lady it should be big no. Caffeinated drinks should be avoided because they can stimulate acid production and can cause indigestion and finally it can lead to an ulcer.