Stress, spicy foods and smoking were once thought to cause ulcers. Now we know that most ulcers are actually caused by bacteria in the stomach or certain medications, and helpful treatments are available. Read on to learn more about ulcers.
What are ulcers?
Ulcers are painful sores found in the lining of the:
In general, ulcers are often called “peptic” ulcers to indicate they occur in the digestive tract.
What causes ulcers?
Ulcers may be caused by the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. However, not everyone with H. pylori will develop an ulcer. Ulcers may also be caused by regularly taking certain medication, such as aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Spicy foods, stress, smoking, and alcohol do not cause ulcers, but if you have an ulcer, they may make your pain worse.
What are the symptoms of ulcers?
The most common symptom of ulcers is chronic pain in the abdomen like a burning or gnawing feeling. This pain can happen just after meals for gastric ulcers, and two to three hours after meals or at night with duodenal ulcers. Other symptoms may include:
In some cases, ulcers may not show any symptoms. This is most common in the elderly.
How are ulcers treated?
Ulcers are sores that need to heal. Your doctor will treat your ulcer based on what is causing it.
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If your ulcer is caused by H.pylori bacteria, you may need to take antibiotics and acid-reducing medication.
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If your ulcer is caused by a certain medication, you may need to stop taking that medication.
How can I manage my ulcer symptoms?
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Limit foods and beverages that make your ulcer symptoms feel worse. This may include spicy foods made with chilies, cayenne, black or hot pepper.
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Limit alcohol. Alcohol increases stomach acid and may interfere with some medications used to treat ulcers. Find out the recommendations for limiting alcohol here.
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Limit caffeine if you have pain or other symptoms when you drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages.
What may help prevent an ulcer?
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Get enough fibre, especially soluble fibre. Soluble fibre is found in vegetables, fruits, oatmeal and oat bran, barley, psyllium, nuts, and legumes such as beans, peas and lentils.
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Follow Canada’s Food Guide to get a variety of foods everyday.
Are there any supplements I can take to help prevent or treat ulcers?
So far the research has not found any vitamins, minerals or herbal supplements that help prevent or treat ulcers. Some studies have found that taking a probiotic supplement along with medical treatment may help improve ulcers caused by H. pylori. Probiotics also help reduce some side-effects of taking antibiotics, like diarrhea. If you are considering a probiotic supplement, speak to a dietitian or health care professional for information on what type, the dose, and how long you should take a probiotic.
Other tips
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Talk with your health care provider if you take NSAIDs or medications that contain caffeine or acetylsalicylic acid.
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Limit or stop smoking. Smoking increases the risk of ulcers and can make it harder for them to heal.
How can a dietitian help?
A dietitian can help you make sure you are getting enough important nutrients, like fibre, in your diet. They can help you with label reading and meal planning. If you currently have an ulcer, a dietitian can help you plan meals that don’t make your symptoms worse. If you are considering probiotics, they can guide you on how to choose one that is right for you. Connect with a dietitian today!
Bottom line
There are no specific foods that treat or cause ulcers. Eating a diet high in fibre, especially soluble fibre may help prevent ulcers.
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This article was written and reviewed by dietitians from Dietitians of Canada. The advice in this article is intended as general information and should not replace advice given by your dietitian or healthcare provider.
Last Update – December 22, 2022