Foods to Eat in Stomach Ulcer
Learn about the best foods for stomach ulcer relief. Discover high-fibre, lean protein, probiotic-rich, and soothing options that promote healing and reduce irritation, while avoiding triggers like spicy or acidic foods.
Written by Dr Shreya Sarkar
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
A stomach ulcer, also known as a peptic ulcer, is a painful condition that occurs when the protective lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine is damaged. This can cause burning sensations, bloating, and general discomfort. The causes of ulcers can vary, but one of the most common culprits is an imbalance between stomach acid and the protective factors that line the digestive tract, such as mucus and bicarbonate.
In addition to medical treatments, making the right dietary choices is essential for the effective management of stomach ulcers. While some foods can exacerbate the condition, others can help promote healing, reduce pain, and prevent further irritation. In this article, we’ll discuss the best foods to eat in a stomach ulcer, which can provide relief and support your recovery process.
Why Choosing the Right Foods Is Important for Stomach Ulcer Treatment
Eating the right foods can significantly impact the healing process of a stomach ulcer. Certain foods help neutralise stomach acid, protect the stomach lining, and promote overall gut health. On the other hand, some foods can irritate the ulcer, leading to increased pain and delayed healing.
The goal of an ulcer-friendly diet is to focus on foods that are mild on the stomach, low in acidity, and nutrient-dense. These foods can soothe the digestive tract, boost the immune system, and support tissue repair. Let’s explore the best foods to include in your diet for stomach ulcer management.
Best Foods to Eat for Stomach Ulcers
While some foods can worsen symptoms of stomach ulcers, others can promote healing and reduce irritation. Choosing a diet rich in soothing, nutrient-dense foods is key to recovery.
1. High-Fibre Foods
When you have a stomach ulcer, including high-fibre foods in your diet is essential for regulating digestion and supporting overall gastrointestinal health. Fibre helps soothe the stomach lining, reduce inflammation, and may even help prevent stomach ulcer recurrence.
Recommended high-fibre foods include:
- Whole grains (e.g., oats, brown rice, quinoa): Gentle on the digestive system and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Fruits (e.g., bananas, pears, apples without skins): Excellent sources of fibre and easy on the stomach.
- Vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale, carrots, sweet potatoes): Fibre-rich and contain anti-inflammatory compounds that assist in ulcer healing.
- Legumes (e.g., lentils, chickpeas, beans): Help regulate digestion but should be eaten in moderation to avoid bloating.
Key benefits:
- Helps regulate bowel movements
- Reduces irritation in the stomach lining
- Boosts overall digestive health
2. Non-Acidic Fruits to Soothe the Stomach
For those suffering from a stomach ulcer, eating non-acidic fruits is essential to avoid further irritation. Acidic fruits like citrus can aggravate ulcer symptoms. Instead, opt for fruits that are mild and easy to digest.
Fruits to eat for stomach ulcers include:
- Bananas: Naturally alkaline, they help neutralise stomach acid and provide a protective layer over the stomach lining.
- Melons (e.g., cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew): Hydrating and non-acidic, won’t trigger heartburn or discomfort.
- Apples and Pears (without skin): Gentle on the stomach, rich in pectin, which helps soothe an irritated digestive system.
Key benefits:
- Neutralise stomach acid
- Hydrate the body and provide essential vitamins and minerals
- Promote a healthy gut microbiome
3. Lean Proteins to Aid in Healing
Protein is essential for tissue repair. For those with stomach ulcers, consuming lean protein sources is critical. Fatty meats and processed foods can irritate the stomach, while lean proteins are easier on the digestive tract and less likely to trigger inflammation.
Lean protein sources to include in a stomach ulcer diet:
- Skinless chicken or turkey: High in protein and low in fat, making them gentle on the stomach.
- Fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, sardines): Good sources of protein and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Eggs: Soft-boiled, poached, or scrambled eggs provide protein without being hard on the digestive system.
Tofu and tempeh: Excellent plant-based protein options for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Key benefits:
- Supports tissue repair and healing
- Helps strengthen the immune system
- Reduces inflammation
4. Probiotic-Rich Foods for Gut Health
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support healthy gut flora and may help manage stomach ulcers by promoting digestion and reducing the harmful effects of bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, a common cause of peptic ulcers. Including probiotic foods in your diet can promote a balanced gut microbiome and aid the healing process.
Probiotic-rich foods to consider:
- Yoghurt (unsweetened, with live cultures): Contains beneficial bacteria that can improve digestion and support ulcer healing.
- Kefir: A fermented dairy product that is richer in probiotics than yoghurt.
- Fermented vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi): Excellent sources of probiotics. Start with small portions to gauge how your stomach responds.
- Miso: A fermented soybean paste that adds flavour to soups and broths while promoting gut health.
Key benefits:
- Support for digestive health
- Balances gut bacteria and promotes a healthy immune response
- Can help fight harmful bacteria and promote ulcer healing
5. Soothing Herbal Teas for Ulcer Relief
Herbal teas are a great way to soothe an irritated stomach and promote healing. Some herbs have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate discomfort, reduce stress, and support digestion.
Herbal teas beneficial for those with stomach ulcers:
- Chamomile tea: Known for its calming effects, chamomile can reduce stomach inflammation and improve sleep, which is essential for healing.
- Ginger tea: Has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate nausea and discomfort associated with ulcers.
- Liquorice root tea: Helps coat the stomach lining and may promote ulcer healing, but should be consumed in moderation to avoid side effects like high blood pressure.
- Peppermint tea: Helps with digestive discomfort, but should be avoided if you have acid reflux, as it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
Key benefits:
- Reduces inflammation and discomfort
- Eases nausea and improves digestion
- Supports overall stomach health
6. Healthy Fats for Ulcer Healing
Incorporating healthy fats into your diet is important for reducing inflammation and supporting overall health. Healthy fats can help soothe the stomach lining, promote healing, and reduce ulcer symptoms.
Best healthy fats to include:
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and healthy fats.
- Avocados: Rich in monounsaturated fats, they can help reduce inflammation in the stomach lining.
- Nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, flaxseeds, chia seeds): Provide healthy fats and fibre that are easy to digest when consumed in moderation.
Key benefits:
- Supports ulcer healing and reduces inflammation
- Provides essential fatty acids for overall health
- Easy on the stomach when consumed in moderation
Additional Tips for Managing Stomach Ulcers with Diet
Adopting mindful eating habits is crucial for managing stomach ulcers and promoting healing. Simple dietary adjustments can help reduce irritation, stabilise stomach acid levels, and support the digestive system.
- Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Instead of consuming large meals, aim for smaller, more frequent meals. This helps keep stomach acid levels stable and reduces the chances of irritation.
- Avoid Spicy Foods and Caffeine: Spicy foods, hot sauces, and caffeine can irritate the ulcer and exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding these foods can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps maintain the stomach’s mucosal lining, which is essential for healing. Aim to drink water throughout the day to support digestion and overall health.
- Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Both alcohol and tobacco can worsen ulcer symptoms and hinder the healing process. It’s advisable to avoid them entirely while managing a stomach ulcer.
- Chew Food Thoroughly: Eating slowly and chewing your food properly helps reduce stress on the digestive system.
Conclusion
The foods eaten when you have stomach ulcers can significantly impact your recovery and help manage symptoms. By focusing on high-fibre foods, lean proteins, non-acidic fruits, probiotic-rich options, and healthy fats, you can promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve your overall digestive health. Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
By incorporating these dietary changes and making mindful choices, you can support your body in healing and reduce the likelihood of further flare-ups, leading to a more comfortable and healthier life.
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