Stomach ulcers, referred to as gastric ulcers, are open sores on the stomach walls. They can be quite painful, causing discomfort and other symptoms. Peptic ulcer disease involves stomach ulcers. A peptic ulcer is an ulcer that affects both the stomach and the small intestine.
Stomach ulcers form when the mucus layer that protects your stomach from digestive juices becomes affected. This allows the digestive acids to eat away at the stomach lining tissues, resulting in an ulcer.
Most common symptoms of stomach ulcer:
Stomach ulcers can cause a variety of symptoms. The intensity of symptoms is mostly determined by the severity of the ulcer. The most typical symptom is a burning sensation or pain in the center of the abdomen, between the chest and the belly hole. The discomfort is usually more strong when the stomach is empty, and it can last anywhere from a few minutes to many hours. Other common ulcer signs and symptoms include:
1- Abdominal Pain: A constant, dull, or sharp pain in the upper abdomen is the most common sign of a stomach ulcer. The discomfort may come and go, although it is usually worst when the stomach is empty or at night. Eating or using antibiotics may provide temporary relief.
2- Nausea and Vomiting: Some people with stomach ulcers may suffer nausea and vomit on occasion. If the ulcer is bleeding, the vomit may contain blood or have a coffee powder look.
3- Weight Loss: Stomach ulcers can cause a decrease in hunger, which can lead to unwanted weight loss.
4- Heartburn and Indigestion: Ulcers can induce indigestion-like symptoms such as bloating, burping, and heartburn. These symptoms may intensify if you eat spicy or acidic meals.
5- Stool: Melena (dark, tarry stools) can occur when an ulcer bleeds. Fresh blood may be present in the waste in rare circumstances, leading it to turn bright red.
Typical causes of stomach ulcers:
1- A life having anxiety, worry, and terror.
2- According to modern research, stomach ulcers are frequently caused by mental instability.
3- According to Dr. Joseph Montague (author of the book 'Nervous Stomach Trouble,' the core cause of ulcers is frequently the patient's mental attitude. Anger, fear, stress, envy, low opinion of someone, irritable disposition, and others.
4- In the long term, factors that promote indigestion and acidity are responsible for ulcers.
5- Helicobacter pylori - This bacteria is estimated to cause around 60% of stomach ulcers and at least 90% of duodenal ulcers. An increase in the quantity of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach also contributes to it. Only stomach acid can keep these bacteria alive. People in low-sanitation nations are more likely to suffer from this.
6- Excessive spicy, fried, stale, or fermented food is the main cause of this disease. Addiction to alcohol, tobacco, gutkha, or cigarette is the most common cause of ulcers.
What food does a person eat/avoid in stomach ulcer:
First of all, you should concern your doctor or a nutritionist to make a food graph.
Foods that are irritants for those with stomach ulcers.
1- Spicy food
2- Oily food
3- Coffee and Alcohol
4- Milk - causes your stomach to produce more acid and digestive juices and makes it worst.
5- Don't let your stomach empty for a long time.
Some suitable foods type that are good:
1- High-fiber foods: High-fiber food such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes may help in digestion and decrease stomach inflammation. Avoid acidic fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tomatoes in favor of low-acid fruits like bananas, melons, and apples.
2- Lean protein: Choose lean protein sources like chicken, fish, and tofu over red meat. These meals have less fat and may be simpler to digest. Avoid fried and greasy meals, which may cause stomach irritation.
3- Low-fat dairy: Select low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. These calcium-rich foods can help relieve the stomach. Full-fat dairy products, which can be difficult to digest, should be avoided.
4- Healthy fats: Include healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil in your diet. These meals are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help decrease stomach irritation.
5- Small, frequent meals: Instead of three substantial meals, eat small, regular meals throughout the day. This may help with digestion and reduce stomach irritation.
What should I do to remain safe from ulcers:
1. Avoid spicy, acidic, or fried meals and drinks that irritate your stomach.
2. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
3. Reduce the quantity of acid in your stomach by eating smaller, more frequent meals.
4. Avoid stress, since it might raise stomach acid levels.
5. Exercise on a regular basis to help relieve stress.
6. Keep your stomach hydrated by drinking lots of fluids such as water and herbal teas.
7. Reduce acid production using over-the-counter antacids or medicines.
8. Look at natural cures like licorice root or chamomile tea.
9. Take probiotics to help regulate your gut bacteria.
10. Talk to your doctor about whether you need prescription medication to treat your ulcers.
