Diet Plan for Peptic Ulcer

Do you know that this seemingly common problem, peptic ulcers, has affected 5–10% of the population worldwide at some point in time?.

Reports suggest that around 4 million people develop this ulcer worldwide.

Let's decode what peptic ulcers are!

As the name suggests, an ulcer refers to a sore, and "peptic" is related to digestion.

A peptic ulcer is a lesion that develops on the lining of the esophagus (esophageal ulcers), inside the stomach (gastric ulcers), or the upper section of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers).

 

What causes peptic ulcers?

Peptic ulcers happen when stomach acid harms the lining of the stomach or intestines.

The main causes are:

• Bacterial Infection: A common bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can irritate and damage the stomach lining.
• Pain Relievers: Long-term use of drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen can hurt the stomach lining.
• Other Factors: Rarely, conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can make the stomach produce too much acid, causing ulcers.

What triggers peptic ulcers?

Certain factors and habits can exacerbate peptic ulcers or contribute to their development.

• Smoking increases stomach acid production and impairs healing.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption
• Spicy foods: While not a direct cause, they can aggravate symptoms in some people.
• Stress: Physical stress (like surgery or a severe illness) can increase the risk, though emotional stress is not directly linked.

Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers

Some common symptoms include:

• Burning pain in the stomach
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Feeling of vomiting
• Unintentional weight loss
• Dark stools
• Vomiting blood

Managing Peptic Ulcers

To treat peptic ulcers, one should:

• Take prescribed drugs to reduce stomach acid and heal the ulcer.
• Make lifestyle changes.
• Try to limit painkillers like aspirin.
• Stop smoking.
• Limit Alcohol.
• Adjust your diet by eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods.
• Surgery: This may be needed in severe cases.
• Follow-Up Care: See your doctor regularly to check on healing and handle any issues.

Peptic ulcers are manageable with the right treatment and lifestyle changes.

If you're experiencing Peptic Ulcers, don't hesitate to consult a dietitian or contact us for assistance.

Feel free to connect with us for all your dietary needs and lifestyle management.