Food to Treat a Stomach Ulcer

A stomach ulcer, also called a peptic ulcer, is an open sore in the lining of your esophagus, stomach or small intestine 4. According to MayoClinic.com, ulcers are caused by a bacterium called H. pylori, but non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, certain foods and stress can aggravate your ulcer 34. Common symptoms include indigestion, abdominal pain, vomiting, belching, weight loss and heartburn. Treatment generally consists of medication, a healthy diet and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, alcohol, smoking and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Certain foods can ease your ulcer symptoms and accelerate the healing process.

Yogurt

You can treat your stomach ulcer by eating yogurt. Yogurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus, probiotics or “friendly” bacteria that help maintain the balance between good and harmful bacteria like H. pylori in your digestive system. Probiotics can suppress infections caused by the H. pylori bacteria and decrease antibiotic side effects that can occur during ulcer treatment. Other foods that contain probiotics include miso, tempeh and soy-based foods.

Olive Oil

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Cooking with extra virgin olive oil can help treat your stomach ulcer. According to the website Science Daily, extra virgin olive oil contains phenols, compounds that stay in your stomach for a prolonged amount of time. These compounds may act as an anti-bacterial agent that prevents the H. pylori bacteria from spreading and infecting the lining of your stomach, but more research is needed before determining the exact relationship between olive oil and H. pylori bacteria.

Cranberries

A food that can help treat a stomach ulcer is cranberries. Cranberries are rich in flavonoids, nutrients that can reduce the growth of H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for ulcers and accelerate healing. Other foods that contain flavonoids include celery, cranberry juice, onions, garlic and green tea. Avoid any foods that cause stomach discomfort.

Water

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You can treat your stomach ulcer by drinking 48 oz. to 64 oz. of filtered water per day, according to the MayoClinic.com 34. Water reduces your ulcer symptoms by keeping your body hydrated and flushing out impurities.

Blueberries

Treat your stomach ulcer by adding some fresh blueberries to your morning cereal. Blueberries contain antioxidants, nutrients that can strengthen your immune system, help your body fight off viruses and diseases, reduce ulcer symptoms and accelerate healing. Other foods rich in antioxidants include cherries, squash and bell peppers. If any of these foods cause you stomach pain, avoid them.

Fiber-Based Foods

A diet rich in fiber-based foods can help your stomach ulcer heal. Fiber can accelerate the healing process and decrease your risk of developing future ulcers. Foods that contain healthy amounts of fiber include:

• raspberries
  
• apples
  
• pears
  
• strawberries
  
• artichokes
  
• peas
  
• cooked dried beans
  
• turnip greens
  
• barley
  
• whole wheat
  
• brown rice

If you experience stomach pain after eating any of these foods, discontinue them.

Almonds

Treat your stomach ulcer by snacking on a handful of almonds. Almonds are rich in B-vitamins, protein and calcium, nutrients that can reduce ulcer symptoms and aid in the recovery process. Other foods that contain B-vitamins include beans, whole grains, spinach and kale. Avoid foods that you feel that you cannot tolerate.