Patients with gastric ulcers should avoid consuming irritating foods, such as spicy, greasy, overly acidic, or overly sweet foods, to prevent further damage to the gastric mucosa. Treatment for gastric ulcers requires a combination of medication and dietary adjustments. Commonly used medications include proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists, and gastric mucosal protectants. Dietary recommendations include easily digestible, fiber-rich foods such as oats, bananas, and steamed fish.
1. Spicy foods: Spicy seasonings such as chili peppers, black pepper, and mustard can irritate the gastric mucosa, increase gastric acid secretion, and worsen ulcer symptoms. Patients should avoid eating spicy dishes, such as spicy hot pot and spicy chicken.
2. Oily foods: Fried foods, fatty meats, and other high-fat foods are difficult to digest, prolonging gastric emptying time and increasing the burden on the stomach. It is recommended to choose steaming, boiling, or stewing methods, such as steamed fish or boiled chicken breast.
3. Overly acidic foods: Citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes, and other acidic foods can stimulate gastric acid secretion and worsen ulcer pain. Patients should reduce their consumption of acidic fruits such as lemons and oranges, and choose milder fruits such as apples and bananas.
4. Overly sweet foods: High-sugar foods such as cakes and chocolates can stimulate gastric acid secretion and may cause stomach discomfort. It is recommended to choose low-sugar foods, such as whole-wheat bread and oatmeal.
5. Coffee and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the gastric mucosa, increase gastric acid secretion, and worsen ulcer symptoms. Patients should avoid drinking coffee, strong tea, and alcoholic beverages, and choose warm water or weak tea instead.
6. Hard foods: Hard foods such as nuts and hard candies may scratch the stomach lining and worsen ulcers. It is recommended to choose soft foods, such as steamed eggs and tofu.
Patients with gastric ulcers should follow the principle of eating small, frequent meals, avoiding overeating, and maintaining a cheerful mood to reduce stress. Regular follow-up gastroscopy examinations, taking medication as prescribed by the doctor, and combining this with a healthy diet and lifestyle can help promote ulcer healing and prevent recurrence.