Daily Diet Tips for Managing Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers

What should be the daily diet for gastric ulcers?

Hello Ms.
Liu, I have been suffering from gastric and duodenal ulcers and have been on medication for six months.
However, I underwent another endoscopy on May 13, and while the original ulcer has healed, there is a new ulcer nearby that keeps recurring.
I would like to ask how I should manage my daily diet.
Additionally, I have a habit of drinking two cups of coffee daily, but I brew it weak.
Is this related to my ulcers? If I need to quit coffee, I experience headaches; what should I do? Please provide a prompt response.
Thank you.

Lan Shuqing, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/05/13

Dr. Liu Qiaoyun reply Nutrition

Hello, gastrointestinal diseases require long-term care.
To cherish your digestive system, avoid overworking or irritating it.
For example, hard-to-digest foods include tough items like celery and dried bamboo shoots, fried foods like fried chicken, and difficult-to-digest items like iron eggs, hard tofu, and nuts.
Additionally, sweets can easily irritate the digestive tract, such as sodas, colas, and pastries, as well as spicy or heavily seasoned foods like salt and pepper chicken, hot pot, or stinky tofu.

You should also pay attention to whether there are specific foods that cause discomfort when consumed, and consider eating smaller, more frequent meals.
A regular eating pattern is generally recommended.
Foods that are soft in texture and contain protein and carbohydrates are the most suitable.
Main meals should include both protein and carbohydrates, but you may need to be cautious with snacks.
For instance, if you really enjoy coffee, you might consider having coffee with milk along with some soda crackers or toast to help mitigate its irritant effects.

While drinking coffee can indeed relieve headaches, it is not a long-term solution.
Perhaps you are experiencing "stress," which is also a common cause of ulcers.
I hope this information does not add any new stress for you (just a joke).
Wishing you peace and joy.

Reply Date: 2002/05/13

More Info

Hello Ms. Liu,
Managing stomach and duodenal ulcers can be challenging, especially when dealing with recurring symptoms. It’s great to hear that your previous ulcer has healed, but the emergence of new ulcers indicates that further dietary and lifestyle adjustments may be necessary. Here are some daily diet tips and considerations that can help you manage your condition effectively.

Dietary Recommendations:
1. Avoid Irritating Foods: Certain foods can exacerbate ulcer symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid spicy foods, acidic foods (like citrus and tomatoes), caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Since you mentioned having two cups of coffee daily, it might be beneficial to reduce or eliminate this habit. Caffeine can increase stomach acid production, which may aggravate your ulcers.

2. Opt for a Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Foods like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole grain bread can be soothing to the stomach. Lean meats, fish, and eggs provide necessary protein without irritating the stomach lining.

3. Include Probiotics: Foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurt and kefir, can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which may aid in healing ulcers.

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

5. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, consider eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. This can help reduce the burden on your stomach and minimize acid production.

6. Cook Food Gently: Use cooking methods that are gentle on the stomach, such as steaming, boiling, or baking. Avoid frying or grilling, as these methods can add unhealthy fats and make food harder to digest.

7. Monitor Your Body’s Response: Pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods. If you notice that certain foods trigger discomfort, it’s best to avoid them.

Regarding Coffee:
If you find it difficult to eliminate coffee due to withdrawal headaches, consider gradually reducing your intake rather than quitting abruptly. You might start by cutting back to one cup a day and then switching to decaffeinated coffee or herbal teas, which are generally gentler on the stomach. Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger can be soothing and may help alleviate some digestive discomfort.

Lifestyle Adjustments:
1. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms. Engage in relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress levels.

2. Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can interfere with the healing of ulcers and increase the risk of complications.

3. Regular Follow-ups: Since you have a history of ulcers, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial. They can monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

4. Medication Compliance: Continue to take your prescribed medications as directed. If you experience side effects or have concerns about your medications, discuss them with your doctor.

Conclusion:
In summary, managing your diet and lifestyle can significantly impact the healing and prevention of stomach and duodenal ulcers. By avoiding irritants, eating a balanced diet, and making mindful lifestyle choices, you can help promote healing and reduce the likelihood of new ulcers forming. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Wishing you good health and a smooth recovery!

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