A peptic ulcer is a sore that forms within the stomach lining and they are also known as stomach or gastric ulcers. These ulcers cause pain and affect the normal functions of the stomach and small intestines. As a natural protective mechanism of the body, the stomach produces a thick layer of mucus, which is responsible for shielding the stomach lining from its digestive juices. Ulcers result from the impediment of this function, which allows the digestive acids to eat away at the stomach lining.

When such a condition persists for a prolonged time, it significantly raises the risk for serious diseases. Therefore, treating stomach ulcers on time is necessary and the good thing is that they can be cured easily:

1. Symptoms of stomach ulcers

The symptoms of stomach ulcers may overlap with that of other stomach and gastric problems, but the most common symptom is a burning sensation that shoots from the belly up to the chest or throat area. Other common symptoms associated with stomach ulcers vary in severity and are more prominent when the stomach is empty. Typically, the following signs indicate you may have developed ulcers:

• Pain in the stomach
• Drastic weight loss
• Loss of appetite due to pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Continuous bloating
• Restlessness
• Acid reflux
• Heartburn
• Empty stomach pain
• Possible shortness of breath
• Soft stools
• Dark vomit

If you experience these symptoms regularly, it is important you seek treatment and evaluation. In the case of bleeding ulcers, contact your caregiver as soon as possible as such a condition is likely to become life-threatening if delayed/left untreated.

2. Treatment

The treatment for ulcers is determined based on what causes them. Doctors identify the causes by evaluating your medical history and conducting tests. Most ulcers are, however, treated with a doctor’s prescription. Severe ulcers may involve endoscopy and IV ulcer medications.

3. Foods to avoid

In addition to your doctor’s treatment plans, it is important you follow an ulcer diet that dictates consuming foods that are compliant with your ulcer treatments and avoiding foods which are noncompliant. A peptic ulcer diet is intended to help alleviate symptoms and reduce the aggravation resulting from the sores which have developed on the lining of your stomach. In order for these ulcers to heal, you must avoid acidic foods; acidic foods hinder the healing process of the damaged tissues. They also cause inflammation.

If you fail to maintain an ulcer diet, your medication or treatment program may not be as effective as it could be. This is because the continued build up of acids can negate the effects of the medicines you’re taking.

A proper ulcer diet will help provide proteins and other nutrients necessary for the body to build and repair tissues. Consuming a good amount of proteins during your treatment period is beneficial. It helps the body perform better in terms of its healing process. It also helps prevent conditions like Crohn’s and other bacterial infections, which can further deteriorate your ulcers. Even if you just suspect having acidic problems, it is best you consume and avoid the following foods:

Foods to avoid:

• Alcohol
• Coffee beans
• All caffeinated foods and beverages
• Milk or cream in excessive amounts
• Fatty meats
• Fried foods
• High-fat foods
• Spices
• Salt
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Tomatoes
• Chocolate

Foods to consume:

• Fresh fruits
• Vegetables
• Lean meats
• Fish and seafood
• Eggs
• Tofu/tempeh
• Yogurt
• Olive oil
• Avocados
• Nuts
• Whole grains
• Green tea
• Herbs