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Do You Suffer From Stomach Ulcer? Cauliflower, Yoghurt And More Foods To Help You!

Stomach ulcers are sores, which are explained to be excruciating - that line the stomach of an individual. The ulcers that are formed in the stomach are called peptic ulcers and those formed in the intestine, especially in the duodenum, is called duodenal ulcers.

Stomach Ulcer: Foods To Eat And Foods To Avoid

Ulcers in the stomach and small intestine are formed because of the reduction of the thick layer of mucous that lies right above the stomach. However, because the layer of mucus is really thin, the acidic digestive juices eat away the tissues that protect the stomach, causing ulcers [1]. Studies reveal that Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection, is suggested to be the main cause of stomach ulcers [2].

So, while you are suffering from stomach ulcer, besides medication, there are certain foods that you must eat and some which you should avoid. But first things first, food choices don't cause ulcers but may make them worse. Although there is no proper diet that anyone suffering from an ulcer can stick to, avoiding some foods can be beneficial for your health.

Roti, Raita, Sambar And Idli: 20 Indian Foods And Their Health BenefitsRoti, Raita, Sambar And Idli: 20 Indian Foods And Their Health Benefits

Let's take a glance at the foods that you should be eating if you suffer from stomach ulcer, in addition to consuming acid-blocking medicines and antibiotics and how they can be beneficial for your health.

1. Cauliflower

1. Cauliflower

Cauliflower, a commonly available vegetable in the market, contains sulforaphane that helps in fighting with the H. pylori bacteria [3]. This compound present in cauliflower can destroy the bacteria in the digestive tract. Besides warding off stomach ulcer, cauliflower is also a source of vitamin C and fibre. You can have it boiled in your salad or cook it in desi style.

2. Cabbage

2. Cabbage

S-methyl methionine, also known as Vitamin U, present in cabbage can help heal a stomach ulcer by alkalising the body and balancing the pH levels [4]. Besides, cabbage also contains amino acid glutamine, which is beneficial in treating an ulcer. The presence of this substance aids in the healing of open pores by strengthening the mucosal lining of the gut. You can have it raw or in your salad, at least two cups daily.

Health Benefits Of Eating KishmishHealth Benefits Of Eating Kishmish

3. Radish

3. Radish

Radish contains fibre that aids in digestion and absorbs zinc and other minerals. Consider eating white radish every day to eradicate the causes of inflammation of the stomach lining, difficulty indigestion, and gastric problems [5].

4. Apple

Consider eating an apple every day and lessen the chances of getting affected by a stomach ulcer. Also, apples contain flavonoids that inhibit the growth of H. pylori [6].

5. Blueberry

Eating blueberries early in the morning can help in managing stomach ulcer. They are a rich source of antioxidants and nutrients and can help in improving your immune system and speed up the recovery from an ulcer [7]. Eat 1/2 cup of blueberry every day with cereals or for afternoon snacks.

6. Strawberry

6. Strawberry

Strawberries can act as a protective shield against stomach ulcer as the berry is rich in antioxidants that protect the body from an ulcer [8]. Besides, it also aids in strengthening the stomach lining. Eat 1 cup of strawberry every day with cereals or for afternoon snacks.

7. Carrot

Carrots can be extremely beneficial in strengthening the stomach lining. The presence of Vitamin A in carrots helps in warding off stomach ulcer, gastric inflammation or indigestion. Have it boiled in your vegetable soup or eat it raw as a salad. You can even drink a glass of carrot juice every day [9].

8. Broccoli

Studies point out that broccoli contains a certain chemical that can eliminate the bacteria which cause stomach ulcer. It is the sulforaphane in broccoli that aids in the process [10]. You can add boiled broccoli to salads or stir fry the green vegetable and enjoy the benefits.

9. Garlic

9. Garlic

A small clove of garlic is capable of keeping a check on H. pylori bacteria that causes stomach ulcer. Garlic contains specific antimicrobial elements that help in treating stomach ulcer. Have 2-3 cloves of garlic every day for better results [11].

10. Liquorice

Liquorice is valued especially for its medicinal properties. It has the potential to fight against the stomach ulcer and gastritis and has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the stomach [12].

11. Honey

11. Honey

Honey is not only beneficial for providing a glowing skin and healing wounds, but effects of honey are also seen on the open pores of the stomach lining. Honey inhibits bacterial growth and relieves a stomach ulcer. Consume a tablespoon of raw honey every morning or have it in your breakfast [13].

12. Yoghurt

Yoghurt is one of the healthiest foods for our body, and it contains probiotics, Lactobacillus, and Acidophilus that help in treating stomach ulcer [14]. It creates a balance between the bad and good gut bacteria in the digestives system.

13. Olive Oil And Other Plant-based Oils

13. Olive Oil And Other Plant-based Oils

Studies show that olive oil has the potential to treat stomach ulcer. It contains phenols that act as an anti-bacterial agent, which prevents H. pylori from further spreading and affecting your stomach lining [15].

14. Decaffeinated Green Tea

Decaffeinated green tea contains ECGC, a high level of catechin that has the potential to relieve you from a stomach ulcer [16]. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties work best on the ulcer. Have a cup of it every morning and evening.

Besides the foods mentioned above, you can also consume the following for a stomach ulcer:

• Leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale [17]
• Almonds
• Cherry
• Bell peppers
• Raspberry
• Turmeric

If you are on antibiotics to treat an ulcer, then have probiotic supplements in your regular diet chart. This will aid in reducing antibiotic symptoms and enhance their effectiveness. Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, and Lactobacillus supplements have shown effective results [18].

Note: Consult your doctor before consuming any supplement.

Foods To Avoid For Stomach Ulcer

Foods To Avoid For Stomach Ulcer

Most people who have an ulcer also have acid reflux. So, consuming certain foods when having a stomach ulcer can cause heartburn, indigestion, and pain [19].

Foods to avoid while suffering from stomach ulcer are as follows [20]:

  • Spicy foods
  • Chocolate (especially milk)
  • Coffee (caffeine)
  • Citrus foods
  • Alcohol
  • Red meat
  • White bread
On A Final Note…

On A Final Note…

Foods that are rich in antioxidants are beneficial in treating stomach ulcer. It boosts up your immune system and prevents the spread of infection. Besides the food mentioned above, you will need to take proper medications prescribed by a medical professional. If you suspect you have an ulcer, get it checked on time.