7 Foods That Can Cause Ulcers

The sores that you may have noticed that appear inside your lips or under your tongue are known as ulcers. They are also formed in the lining of your stomach, your small intestines, and even your throat. Ulcers in the stomach, small intestines, and throat are also called gastric, duodenal, and esophageal, respectively. Out of these three, the duodenal ulcer is the most common.

What Causes an Ulcer?

There are some common triggers for ulcers. The biggest trigger is known to be the food that we eat. This is because of a bacteria, known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), that enters our body when food is consumed. Some foods also contain certain acids that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for the patient.

Other reasons for the presence of ulcers can also be the long-term use of certain medications such as aspirin and even ibuprofen. However, food, and what comes with it, tend to be the main reason why. Therefore, one should be aware of the types of foods that can cause ulcers to avoid any inconveniences. This blog will inform you of seven foods that can possibly cause you ulcers:

1. Milk:

Previously, milk was considered to be a remedy for ulcers and was actively recommended by doctors as a legitimate treatment plan. This is due to a proclaimed cooling sensation that it would have on your body.

However, studies have since questioned the effects of milk on ulcers and have since come to the conclusion that milk makes the situation in your stomach worse. Due to the fact that milk may cause your stomach to make more acid which would then create ulcers.

2. Alcohol:

Alcohol possesses irritants that make the environment in your stomach very acidic. This is not good for your body as it may react negatively and therefore lead to stomach ulcers.

3. Coffee and Tea:

Similar to alcohol, coffee and tea also possess irritants that may not agree with the environment of the stomach. Therefore, this discomfort could then cause ulcers and increased pain. It is suggested by doctors to consume caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea in small controllable doses especially if one has a sensitive stomach.

4. Fatty Foods:

Fatty foods such as fast food and foods drenched in oil can be hard to consume by the acids in the stomach. Therefore, this can lead to belly pain and later, bloating. It is recommended to consume fatty foods in moderate amounts in order to give your stomach and your digestive system a rest in between.

5. Spicy Foods:

Depending on the person and how prone they are to stomach aches and ulcers. Spicy foods can also be a leading cause of stomach ulcers. This is due to the pressure that may occur on the digestive system.

However, studies have not shown much evidence of this relationship but patients have mentioned that a correlation exists for them. Avoid them if you experience pain after.

6. Foods Rich in Citrus:

Similar to spicy foods, citrus rich foods such as oranges and limes have been reported to cause ulcers in some patients. Some have mentioned that there is a link between the two while others have not. This is more of a personal choice rather than a recommendation.

7. Chocolate:

Chocolate is known to cause stomach discomfort and make the environment in the stomach more acidic and therefore more sensitive as well. However, chocolate is also known to have some health benefits. Therefore, consumption depends on the patient and how well their body reacts to it.

Last Word

Some ways to control the pain and the discomfort caused is to eat foods that are rich in probiotics such as yogurt and kombucha. Others also include fiber-rich foods such as oatmeal and even sweet potatoes and bell peppers.

However, if the pain is consistent for some time then it is suggested to consult a doctor who may recommend you a treatment plan accordingly.