WHAT TYPE OF NUTRITION IS REQUIRED TO CURE ULCER?

Nutrition plays a key role in supporting healing from an ulcer and in reducing symptoms. While diet alone can't cure an ulcer, certain foods can aid healing and reduce irritation, while others may worsen symptoms. Here’s a guide on helpful and potentially harmful foods:

Foods That Help with Ulcer Healing

1. Fiber-Rich Foods: Foods high in fiber, especially soluble fiber, may help reduce ulcer symptoms and protect the stomach lining. Include:
• Oats
• Apples, pears, and other fruits with skin
• Whole grains (e.g., brown rice, barley)
2. Fruits and Vegetables High in Antioxidants: These may help repair stomach lining damage.
• Berries (blueberries, strawberries)
• Bell peppers
• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Carrots
3. Probiotic-Rich Foods: Probiotics encourage healthy gut flora and may help manage H. pylori infections.
• Yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut and other fermented foods
4. Lean Proteins: Protein helps repair tissue damage, but choose lean sources to avoid excess fat.
• Skinless chicken
• Fish (especially fatty fish like salmon, which has anti-inflammatory omega-3s)
• Tofu and legumes
5. Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Foods like ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce irritation.
• Fresh ginger (e.g., in teas or cooking)
• Turmeric, preferably with black pepper to enhance absorption

Foods and Beverages to Avoid

1. Spicy Foods: These can irritate the stomach lining and worsen symptoms in some people.
2. High-Fat Foods: Fatty and fried foods can slow digestion, which might aggravate ulcers.
3. Alcohol: Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and can worsen an ulcer or delay healing.
4. Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine can increase stomach acid production.
5. Citrus and Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits and acidic foods like tomatoes may aggravate symptoms for some people.

General Tips

• Smaller, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can help manage symptoms and reduce stomach acid buildup.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps digestion and reduces stomach irritation.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases acid production and delays healing.

Combining these dietary approaches with medical treatment, such as antibiotics or acid-reducing medications, will best support the healing process.