Stomach Ulcers Healing Diet

Submitted by Serena Mason on June 8, 2010

Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are small erosions or ulcerations in the lining of the stomach or the rest of the gastrointestinal tract. Duodenal ulcer, the most common kind of stomach ulcers, occurs in the small intestines. The ulcers that are present in the stomach are known as gastric ulcers. Gastric ulcers almost always turn cancerous while the peptic ulcers remain benign. Due to changing lifestyles, gastric ulcers have become extremely common.

Millions of Americans are affected by stomach ulcers. If proper care is not taken, even children may develop stomach ulcers.

Most often, stomach ulcers are a symptom of a disease, rather than being a disease in itself.

In a condition known as mastocytosis, stomach ulcers are especially seen. If such ulcers are bleeding, it may cause anemia. The presence of blood in urine or stool may indicate the presence of bleeding ulcers in the stomach.

Stomach ulcers are caused when the lining of the stomach is destroyed. For a long time, it was believed that an excess of gastric juices and enzymes are responsible for the formation of these ulcers. However, later it was found out that the mucosal lining may also be affected due to the presence of bacteria known as H.

Pylori. The H pylori bacteria are communicable and are associated with the formation of these ulcers in the stomach. Till now, antibiotics have proven to be the best treatment for H. Pylori bacteria. When suffering from stomach ulcers, it is absolutely essential to take care of your food. If you already have ulcers in your stomach, excess of gastric juices can cause additional discomfort or may cause complications. Apart from taking precautions such as completely giving up both tobacco and alcohol, you also have to give a lot of thought to the kind of food that you eat.

The simplest way to prevent discomfort from ulcers is to eat smaller meals which are spaced out throughout the day. Avoid both over eating and long periods of hunger, as both will only aggravate the condition. Drink lots of fluids and include good sources of proteins like cheese, eggs, and milk in your diet. If you are feeling some discomfort, rely on milk and antacids. Milk lowers the pH in the stomach, giving you some relief, while antacids will keep the acidity as low as possible. Meal timings should be correct and avoid eating for at least three hours before you go to sleep.