What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- Pub Med Central: Physical Activity and Peptic Ulcers
- Pub Med Central: Physical Activity and Peptic Ulcers
- ACE Fitness: Can Exercise Prevent Ulcers?
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Stomach Ulcers & Exercise
Stomach ulcers, also sometimes called peptic ulcers, are wounds that develop on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine 3. The ulcers develop when acid used by the stomach for digestion eats away at the lining of these organs. Some people are more prone to develop these ulcers, but there are several things you can do to control and reduce the risk of them. One of them is exercising.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Ulcer Causes
The occurrence of stomach ulcers can be related to one or more factors. Some people are genetically inclined toward developing ulcers. For others, stress can cause or exacerbate damage caused by stomach acid. Overeating can expand the stomach and cause other pain leading to stomach ulcers, and the type of foods consumed can also influence this condition.
- The occurrence of stomach ulcers can be related to one or more factors.
- For others, stress can cause or exacerbate damage caused by stomach acid.
Risks
Remedies for Ulcer Pain
Learn More
Stomach ulcers can cause a burning sensation sometimes referred to as heartburn. Although this may only cause discomfort in the short term, it can lead to more serious problems. Serious ulcers can break down the lining of the stomach, increasing the pain and requiring immediate medical attention. Some less significant developments include increased gas and burping created in the stomach.
- Stomach ulcers can cause a burning sensation sometimes referred to as heartburn.
Exercise
According to the New York Times, there is some evidence that exercise can help reduce the risk of ulcers developing in some people 23. A study published in the Western Journal of Medicine concluded that exercise may be a nonpharmacological approach to reducing the occurrence of ulcers, but no studies have verified this benefit in women.
Lifestyle Changes
The Best Food to Eat for a Stomach Ulcer
Learn More
You can make several lifestyle changes to improve your rate of ulcers. Though exercising can help, it can have even more impact when combined with stress relief therapy. Choosing foods that don't cause your stomach to develop heartburn can also help, and taking aspirin or ibuprofen might also prove effective, according to Kaiser Permanente.
Considerations
If you're unable to treat your stomach ulcers on your own, see a doctor and determine what courses of action are available. You might be given a prescription-strength medication to reduce your stomach's production of acid. You should also integrate fruits and vegetables into your diet. These foods rarely exacerbate stomach ulcers. Also avoid spices and peppers, which are likely to worsen your condition.
- If you're unable to treat your stomach ulcers on your own, see a doctor and determine what courses of action are available.
Related Articles
Remedies for Ulcer Pain
Learn More
The Best Food to Eat for a Stomach Ulcer
Learn More
Why Am I Getting Heartburn When I Work Out?
Learn More
Why Do I Burp Up Food After Eating?
Learn More
Side Effects of HCL Supplements
Learn More
Foods Safe to Eat with Stomach Ulcers
Learn More
What Causes Heartburn in Women?
Learn More
Will You Lose Weight if You Stop Drinking Diet Soda?
Learn More
I Have Severe Abdominal Pain That Goes Away After Eating
Learn More
Protein Foods & Acid Reflux
Learn More
References
- Pub Med Central: Physical Activity and Peptic Ulcers
- ACE Fitness: Can Exercise Prevent Ulcers?
- NY Times: Peptic Ulcers
- Di saverio S, Bassi M, Smerieri N, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of perforated or bleeding peptic ulcers: 2013 WSES position paper. World J Emerg Surg. 2014;9:45. doi:10.1186/1749-7922-9-45
- Søreide K, Thorsen K, Harrison EM, et al. Perforated peptic ulcer. Lancet. 2015;386(10000):1288-1298. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(15)00276-7
- Cedars Sinai. Ulcers.
- Michigan Medicine. University of Michigan. Peptic Ulcer Disease. Updated November 7, 2018.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Helicobacter pylori and Peptic Ulcer Disease. Updated September 28, 2006.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School. Peptic Ulcer. 2014.
- "H. pylori and Peptic Ulcer." NIH Publication No. 05–4225 October 2004. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 22 Aug 2007
- "What I need to know about Peptic Ulcers." NIH Publication No. 05–5042 October 2004. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 22 Aug 2007
- William D. Chey, M.D., F.A.C.G., A.G.A.F., F.A.C.P., Benjamin C.Y. Wong, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.G., F.A.C.P., "American College of Gastroenterology Guideline on the Management of Helicobacter pylori Infection." doi:10.1111/j.1572-0241.2007.01393.x. American College of Gastroenterology. 22 Aug 2007
Writer Bio
Jonathan Croswell has spent more than five years writing and editing for a number of newspapers and online publications, including the "Omaha World-Herald" and "New York Newsday." Croswell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Nebraska and is currently pursuing a Master's of Health and Exercise Science at Portland State University.