Peptic Ulcer Diet

Peptic ulcers are the development of small holes or erosions in the lining of the stomach. The condition is primarily the destruction of the intestinal mucosal lining of the stomach by hydrochloric acid content which is normally present in the digestive juices of the stomach. The development of the ulcer from this point on is significantly contributed to by a infection caused by a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori for short) that is commonly transmitted from person to person by way of contaminated food or water. Any excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid will also significantly worsen the condition. The condition is rather prevalent and is known to affect millions of Americans on a yearly basis. About 80% of all peptic ulcers can be attributed to the presence of the H. pylori bacterium. Some people are placed at a higher risk of suffering from peptic ulcers as the condition is known to be handed down from one generation of sufferers to the next within the same bloodline. Factors like excessive smoking, consumption of alcohol or even psychological stress, while not being a direct cause, will worsen the condition considerably. Another known cause of the development of peptic ulcers is the excessive use of anti inflammatory medications.

While it is important to know the kinds of foods that you should eat when affected by peptic ulcers, it is equally important to know the kinds of foods that you should stay away from. Foods that you should make it a point to avoid include croissant rolls, breads that are sprinkled with some seeds over the top, cereals such as granola and bran, vegetables that contribute significantly to the formation of gas in the stomach such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. Any fruit that has a high citrus content, such as pineapples, tangerines, figs and grapefruits should also be avoided. Highly seasoned poultry items like corned beef and sardines should be avoided as well.

Foods like rice, barley, tortillas and English muffins are known to be very beneficial for patients suffering from stomach ulcers. Any fruits with low citrus content will do while always making sure that you drink only no fat or low fat milk. Any lean meats such as pork, poultry and veal will not cause any reactions within your body. Instead of eating 3 big meals a day, you should try cutting it down to about 6 smaller meals spread over the course of the day. This will help the already fragile stomach deal with the food much better.