Stephan Szwaj
Here are some tips for a diet after a stomach ulcer flare-up:
1. **Avoid Irritating Foods**: Spicy foods (like chili, pepper), acidic items (such as citrus fruits and vinegar), fried, fatty, and highly processed foods should be avoided, as they can irritate the stomach.
2. **Opt for Easy-to-Digest Foods**: Boiled vegetables, lean meats, fish, rice, oatmeal, and mashed potatoes are generally safe choices. Focus on foods that are cooked or steamed instead of fried.
3. **Eat Small, Frequent Meals**: Eating 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day instead of 3 large ones can reduce the load on the stomach and help prevent acid overproduction.
4. **Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol**: Coffee, tea, sodas, and alcohol can aggravate ulcer symptoms. It’s best to stick to water, herbal teas (like chamomile or peppermint), or other soothing drinks.
5. **Include Soothing Foods**: Bananas, low-fat milk, and natural yogurt can help neutralize stomach acids, which might provide relief.
6. **Watch Meal Timing**: Try to eat at least 2-3 hours before bedtime to give your stomach time to digest and avoid nighttime discomfort.
7. **Incorporate Fiber-Rich Foods**: Fiber aids digestion and may support stomach lining recovery. Consider adding oatmeal, quinoa, and root vegetables.
8. **Stay Hydrated**: Drinking enough water can dilute stomach acids and lessen irritation risk.
These general tips can be helpful, but it’s always best to consult a doctor or dietitian to tailor the diet to specific needs.