9 Foods To Avoid When You Have Ulcers

Stomach ulcers are also known as gastric ulcers are open sores on the stomach lining. They are a form of the peptic ulcer which means they are acid-related. They are frequently painful due to the amount of acid present in the stomach and the damage it can cause.

Although, ulcers may be caused by overuse of painkillers and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, the common cause of stomach ulcers is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

Ulcers isn’t just stomach pain, if not treated it can create a hole in the stomach which requires surgery. Stomach ulcers are treated with antibiotics and medication to reduce and block stomach acid.

Alcohol

Regular consumption of alcohol causes significant stomach inflammation. Alcohol relaxes the lower part of the esophagus thereby increasing your risk for ulcers. Consuming alcohol while you suffer from ulcers is putting your health in danger as it can cause more bleeding of your stomach ulcer.

Fatty or fried foods

If you suffer from a stomach ulcer, fried and fatty food should be avoided in your diet because your body digests fatty foods slowly making them feel heavy in your stomach plus slow digestion allows food more time to ferment which leads to excess gas and stomach bloating.

Non-fermented dairy products

Non-fermented dairy products such as milk and ice cream are linked with poor gut health and increased risk of ulcer as it lacks the live bacteria cultures (probiotics) used in the production of fermented dairy products. As an alternative, consume fermented dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and sour cream.

Tomato products

Tomatoes have a below pH of 4.6, making them highly acidic. High acidic foods such as tomatoes may cause heartburn and irritate ulcers. Therefore, it is advisable to stay off tomato products if you have a stomach ulcer.

Other foods to avoid include

• Citrus foods
• Raw vegetables or salads
• Coffee
• Chocolate
• Spicy foods