Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are painful sores that develop on the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, or small intestine. They form when stomach acid damages the protective lining of the digestive tract. While it’s commonly believed that lifestyle choices like stress or spicy food cause ulcers, medical research shows that prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and bacterial infections are the primary culprits.
In Nigeria, ulcers cause more deaths than both suicide and liver cancer, underscoring the severity of this health issue. While food choices don’t cause stomach ulcers, they can exacerbate symptoms. That’s why it’s essential to be mindful of what you eat, especially if you have an ulcer. Below are five foods and drinks that ulcer patients should avoid to manage their condition effectively:
1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are highly acidic, which can worsen ulcer symptoms. Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits should be avoided, as they may irritate the stomach lining. “Lemon juice is acidic, which can corrode the lining or aggravate existing stomach ulcers.”
2. Caffeine
Caffeine, found in coffee, some teas, and soft drinks, stimulates the production of gastric acids such as hydrochloric acid and gastrin, which can aggravate ulcers. “Some doctors also advise that chocolate, which contains caffeine, should be highly avoided. To minimize symptoms, individuals with ulcer disease should avoid or limit both coffee and alcohol.”
3. Cheese
Foods made from milk or cream, especially those that are high in fat, should be avoided. “Flavored cheese that is strong and spicy should not be eaten.” Additionally, fatty or heavily seasoned meats can irritate the digestive system, making ulcers worse. Dieticians recommend cutting back on red meat, trans fats, and refined foods like white bread and pasta to ease symptoms.
4. Fried and Fatty Foods
These types of foods take longer to digest, causing bloating and abdominal discomfort. They can make ulcer symptoms feel worse and should be avoided by people with peptic ulcers.
5. Pineapple
Pineapple is another highly acidic fruit that can trigger symptoms in ulcer patients. “Some doctors may recommend that people with stomach ulcers avoid pineapple, as it is highly acidic. If you experience a burning sensation or irritation in your oesophagus after eating, you may have acid reflux.”
Alternatives to Support Ulcer Recovery
Avoiding these foods can help manage ulcer symptoms and aid in recovery. Instead, opt for non-acidic, fiber-rich fruits such as apples, watermelon, and cucumbers, which are gentler on the stomach and can support healing.
