Stomach ulcer diet: Foods to eat and avoid with ulcers

Stomach ulcers are sores on the stomach lining. They occur due to a break in the protective mucosal lining of the digestive system – leading to open sores. This can occur due to impact trauma or erosion of the mucosal barrier.

Avoiding or limiting foods that aggravate these sores may help reduce symptoms and allow the ulcers to heal naturally.

No conclusive research confirms that eating any specific foods can directly prevent or heal gastric ulcers. However, some foods may have a protective effect, while others may be harmful.

Overview

The two main causes of stomach ulcers are bacterial infections, commonly helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), and long-term use of certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Stress will not cause a stomach ulcer, but it can worsen your symptoms.

What to eat when you have a stomach ulcer

Consuming ulcer-friendly foods and drinks can help soothe the pain of stomach ulcers and allow for wound healing.

Some antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can support the health and healing of the protective mucosa barrier in the digestive system. Repairing this damaged barrier is the main aim of treatment.

Some of the best foods to eat if you have a stomach ulcer include:

High fiber foods

Fiber slows digestion, reduces stomach acid concentration, and may help reduce or prevent bloating. Dietary fiber can also have a protective effect on the entire digestive system.

Discover 10 high fiber foods you should eat every week.

Cruciferous veggies

Eating leafy greens is great for your overall health. Cruciferous vegetables are rich in fiber and antioxidant compounds. These can support stomach health and, in some instances, prevent stomach ulcers from forming.

Cruciferous vegetables include:

• broccoli
• cauliflower
• kale
• bok choy
• arugula
• Brussels sprouts
• collard greens
• watercress
• radishes

Berries

Berries like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries are rich in antioxidants. Studies show that diets rich in antioxidants can reduce the risk of h. pylori infections.

More specifically, a 2020 study found that drinking cranberry juice twice per day helped suppress h. pylori infections.

Red and orange fruits and veggies

Red and orange fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C, which may help reduce the severity of bleeding in peptic ulcers.

Try foods such as:

• carrots
• sweet potatoes
• butternut squash
• bell peppers
• pumpkin
• mango
• Cantaloupe

Do you have an ulcer or GERD? Here’s how to tell the difference.

Fermented foods

Many fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and yogurts, are rich in probiotics which may help prevent H. pylori infections.

Probiotics are live organisms that help support the healthy working of your gut bacteria.

What foods to avoid with a stomach ulcer

Some foods can worsen ulcer symptoms and slow recovery. As ulcers are often due to an overly acidic stomach environment, it is best to avoid acidic foods or those that may increase stomach acid production.

Spicy foods

Spicy foods, such as hot sauces and chili pepper-based dishes, could cause discomfort, bloating, and pain for a person with stomach ulcers.

Caffeinated drinks

A morning cup of tea or coffee might help you feel ready to face the day. But it’s not good for your stomach ulcer.

Caffeinated beverages increase acid production in your gut and may worsen your stomach pain.

Acidic fruits

Lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes, and grapefruits are very acidic. This means eating them could irritate your stomach ulcer.

Alcohol

Any form of alcohol increases acid production in your gut, promotes inflammation in the body, and may damage your stomach lining further.

Stomach ulcer treatment options

Diet plays a huge role in managing stomach ulcers. But your doctor might also prescribe medication to help reduce stomach acid production. These include:

• proton pump inhibitors
  • lansoprazole (Prevacid)
  • omeprazole (Prilosec)
  • pantoprazole (Protonix)
  • rabeprazole (AcipHex)
  • esomeprazole (Nexium)
• H2 blockers
  • cimetidine
  • nizatidine
  • famotidine

Find prices for peptic ulcer medications here.

If you need help covering the cost of medications, the free Optum Perks Discount Card could help you get up to 80% off prescription medication. See how much you can save on your medication here.