Dietary Guidelines for Patients with Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers

Q: Dietary Guidelines for Patients with Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers

Mrs. <br>Lin： Hello, for patients with ulcers, it is best to maintain a regular and moderate eating schedule while enjoying meals in a relaxed and unhurried manner. <br>Adjusting your lifestyle and mood can help reduce the occurrence and flare-ups of ulcers. <br>In terms of food,

What dietary considerations should patients with gastric ulcers keep in mind?

1.
Patients with gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers should pay attention to their diet and lifestyle by avoiding spicy, acidic, and fried foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol.
It is also important to eat smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid eating close to bedtime to reduce stomach acid production.
2.
Foods that can be consumed more frequently include non-citrus fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
Foods to avoid include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and high-fat or fried foods.
Thank you.

Lin Tai Tai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/21

Dr. Liu Qiaoyun reply Nutrition

Mrs.
Lin: Hello, for patients with ulcers, it is best to maintain a regular and moderate eating schedule while enjoying meals in a relaxed and unhurried manner.
Adjusting your lifestyle and mood can help reduce the occurrence and flare-ups of ulcers.
In terms of food, it is advisable to minimize irritating foods, such as spicy foods (like spicy chicken), acidic foods (like pineapple), hard foods (coarse or heavily processed, such as bamboo shoots), fried and overly crispy foods (like salt and pepper chicken or stinky tofu), alcoholic beverages (both strong and light), and hard-to-digest foods (like glutinous rice).
Additionally, based on your personal experiences, be mindful of which foods cause discomfort, as many people find legumes can lead to bloating.
When out or at work, you can snack on simple items like instant oatmeal or a bun.
Sweets can also increase stomach acid, so those who enjoy sweet foods should be particularly cautious.
It’s important not to let yourself get too hungry, but also not to overeat, as both extremes can lead to discomfort.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals is crucial.
Since the digestive system may be weaker, avoid eating late-night snacks before bed, as undigested food can lead to stomach pain during the night.
Of course, excessive eating and drinking during social gatherings should be avoided as well! As for beneficial foods, those that are easy to digest and not too greasy are preferable.
For example, chicken, duck, and fish are good options, but they should be steamed, boiled, or baked rather than fried.
Softer textures are better, as tougher items like beef tendons, chicken feet, or snail meat can be too hard.
For vegetables, choose those that are soft and easy to digest, such as Chinese broccoli, pickled vegetables, and legumes, which may be too hard.
Tender gourds and leafy greens are acceptable.
This is a general principle, and your personal experiences are invaluable, as gastrointestinal differences can be significant.
Therefore, when trying new foods, do not eat too much at once, and avoid a wide variety of foods at the same time.
Taking good care of your digestive system will ensure it serves you well for a long time.

Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
Nutritionist Qiao Yun, 7/22.

Reply Date: 2004/07/21

More Info

When managing stomach and duodenal ulcers, dietary choices and lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in promoting healing and alleviating symptoms. Here are some comprehensive guidelines to consider:

Dietary Guidelines
1. Balanced Nutrition: Aim for a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups. This includes whole grains, lean proteins (such as poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes), low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables. A balanced diet ensures adequate nutrient intake, which is essential for healing.

2. Frequent, Small Meals: Instead of three large meals, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This approach can help reduce gastric acid secretion and minimize discomfort.

3. Avoid Irritating Foods: Certain foods can exacerbate ulcer symptoms. It is advisable to avoid:
- Spicy Foods: Spices can irritate the stomach lining.

- Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can increase acidity.

- Caffeinated Beverages: Coffee, tea, and sodas can stimulate acid production.

- Alcohol: It can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production.

- Fried and Fatty Foods: These can slow digestion and increase discomfort.

4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated is important for overall health and can help dilute stomach acid.

5. Cooking Methods: Opt for gentle cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, or baking instead of frying or grilling, which can produce more irritating compounds.

6. Monitor Food Reactions: Each individual may react differently to certain foods. Keep a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that arise. This can help identify specific triggers to avoid.

Foods to Include
1. Low-Fat Dairy: Foods like low-fat yogurt and milk can be soothing to the stomach and may help neutralize stomach acid.

2. Bananas: They are gentle on the stomach and can help coat the stomach lining, providing some relief from irritation.

3. Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties, honey can be beneficial for ulcer healing. It is also soothing and can help reduce inflammation.

4. Oatmeal and Whole Grains: These are high in fiber and can help absorb excess stomach acid, promoting digestive health.

5. Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, and plant-based proteins are less likely to irritate the stomach compared to red meats.

6. Non-Citrus Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, pears, carrots, and leafy greens are generally well-tolerated and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Lifestyle Modifications
1. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms. Engage in relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.

2. Avoid Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing of ulcers and increase the risk of complications.

3. Regular Sleep Schedule: Ensure adequate rest and maintain a regular sleep pattern to support overall health.

4. Medication Adherence: Continue taking prescribed medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antibiotics for H. pylori infection, as directed by your healthcare provider.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor the healing process and adjust treatment as necessary.

In summary, managing stomach and duodenal ulcers involves a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and adherence to medical treatment. By focusing on a balanced diet, avoiding irritants, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, patients can significantly improve their symptoms and promote healing. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice tailored to your specific condition.

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