Good & Bad Food for Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are characterized by erosion of the lining of your stomach or esophagus. This produces sores that can cause pain, burning sensations after eating and nausea. About 10 percent of adults in the United States suffer from gastric ulcers, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Certain foods may help relieve gastric ulcer symptoms, and others may worsen this condition 1.

Flavonoid-Rich Foods

Flavonoids are antioxidants that occur naturally in plant-based foods. These substances may slow the growth of Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that causes most gastric ulcers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center 2. Flavonoids may also help prevent damage to the lining of your esophagus and stomach.

Vitamin K Foods

Vitamin K is responsible for the production of platelets that clot blood and prevent excessive bleeding. It may help reduce bleeding of gastric ulcers, which may promote healing and speed recovery, according to Balch. Good sources of vitamin K include green leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach and Swiss chard.

Fiber-Rich Foods

Foods high in dietary fiber may help promote the healing of gastric ulcers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center 2. Fiber may also help prevent gastric ulcers from developing in the first place, Good sources of fiber include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, brown rice and beans and legumes.

Fatty Foods

Foods containing saturated fats, such as:

• eggs
  
• dairy products
  
• poultry
  
• pork
  
• beef
  
• may aggravate gastric ulcers

Trans fats, which are commonly found in fried foods, prepackaged snacks and baked goods, may also worsen this condition. Saturated fats and trans fats are difficult to digest, so they may stimulate excess production of hydrochloric acid in your stomach, according to Balch. This acid may erode the lining of your digestive system, promoting the formation of new ulcers and irritating existing sores.

Caffeine

Reduce or eliminate your consumption of caffeine if you have gastric ulcers. Caffeine is most commonly associated with coffee, however, soft drinks, tea and chocolate also contain this chemical. Caffeine may increase production of digestive acids in your stomach, according to Balch.