Diet to reduce Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that form on the lining of the stomach, esophagus, or the part of the small intestine that is attached to the stomach (duodenum). These sores are also called stomach ulcers.

When ulcers develop, they can cause a burning feeling in the stomach as well as bloating, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite.

If you have a history of peptic ulcers, it is important to keep track of what foods and drinks cause symptoms.

What are tips for following this plan?

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.  This includes:
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat a variety of colors of fruits and vegetables.
  • Whole grains. Try to make sure at least half of the grains you eat each day are whole grains.
  • Low-fat dairy.
  • Lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, and nuts.
  • Healthy fats, such as olive oil, grapeseed oil, or canola oil. Try to eat less than 8 teaspoons of fats and oils each day.
• Avoid foods that cause irritation or pain. These may be different for different people. Keep a food diary to identify foods that cause symptoms.
• Avoid processed foods that have added salt and sugar.
• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as cola, black tea, energy drinks, and coffee.

Recommended foods

Grains

• Whole grains.

Vegetables

• All fresh or frozen vegetables. Low-sodium canned vegetables.

Fruits

• All fresh, frozen, or dried fruit. Fruit canned in juice.

Meats and other protein foods

• Lean cuts of meat. Skinless poultry. Fresh or canned fish. Eggs. Tofu. Nuts and nut butter. Dried beans. Low-sodium canned beans.

Dairy

• Low-fat or nonfat (skim) milk. Nonfat or low-fat yogurt. Nonfat or low-fat cheese.

Beverages

• Water. Soy or nut milks. Caffeine-free soft drinks. Herbal tea.

Fats and oils

• Olive oil. Canola oil. Grapeseed oil. Sunflower oil.

Seasoning and other foods

• Low-fat salad dressing. Ketchup. Low-fat mayonnaise. All spices except pepper. Low-sodium seasoning mixes.

Foods to avoid

Meats and other protein foods

• Fatty meats. Fried meats. Any meat that causes symptoms.

Dairy

• Whole milk. Ice cream. Cream. Chocolate milk.

Beverages

• Alcohol. Coffee. Cola and energy drinks. Black or green tea. Cocoa.

Fats and oils

• Butter. Lard. Ghee.

Seasoning and other foods

• Pepper. Hot sauce. Any seasonings or condiments that cause symptoms.

Summary

• Peptic ulcers can cause burning in the stomach as well as bloating, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite. You may be able to limit symptoms by avoiding foods that make you feel worse.
• Work with your dietitian or health care provider to identify foods that cause symptoms. This may include caffeinated drinks, alcohol, or pepper.