Symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, burning sensations in the chest, bloating, and nausea are among the most common digestive issues people experience. In most cases, these are harmless and can be treated with healthy lifestyle modifications. But in severe cases, these can indicate a stomach ulcer, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Krishanu Banik, Consultant - Gastroenterologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata, describes stomach ulcers as a sore that forms in the lining of the stomach. According to him, the condition occurs when the protective layer of mucus that lines the stomach is weakened, allowing stomach acid to damage the underlying tissues.
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It is important to note that stomach ulcers, or gastric ulcers, can occur due to various factors, including an infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Moreover, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, prolonged stress, and certain medical conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can trigger the condition. But when we talk about triggers, there are some foods that may not fare well with people diagnosed with stomach ulcers.
Citrus Fruits
Dr Banik says that an ulcer is an open sore that most commonly develops either in the stomach or the initial part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. Certain foods, like citrus fruits, can stimulate the production of stomach acids that can inflame the open sore, worsening the symptoms. These include fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes, which are rich sources of citric acid.
Fried Or Fatty Foods
Fatty, fried, and processed foods have the tendency to worsen stomach ulcers. These lack essential nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants that are generally required to maintain digestive health. In general, fried foods, such as packaged chips, french fries, and fried chicken, can aggravate stomach ulcers and upset the digestive tract's natural layer of protection, according to the Medical News Today. This can result in an imbalance in the gut flora, thereby causing flatulence and other stomach-related issues.
Vinegar In Foods
Vinegar, due to its acidic nature, can irritate the open sore associated with a stomach ulcer and worsen symptoms. If you have a stomach ulcer, it's best to avoid vinegar or consume it after diluting it with water.
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Alcohol
According to a study published in the journal Clinical Endoscopy, while alcohol isn't directly responsible for causing stomach ulcers, heavy drinking can increase your chances of getting one. Even if you already have an ulcer, alcohol can make it worse by slowing down the healing process and causing more pain. Doctors generally recommend avoiding alcohol altogether if you have a stomach ulcer.
Conclusion
Stomach ulcers are very common, with peptic ulcer disease affecting about 40 lakh people worldwide annually, according to a study published in the journal PLOS ONE. It also has an estimated lifetime prevalence of 5–10% in the general population, the study further notes. While prevention is key, it is also important to know how to manage the condition if one tends to develop it. Avoiding triggers and addressing underlying issues may help treat the condition and improve quality of life.