Mouth ulcers

Mucous membrane of the mouth.

Egg-shaped lesion with a white centre that can be very painful

These tender lesions can cause problems when brushing your teeth, chewing and can react painfully to any food that's sour, spicy or salty

The causes of mouth ulcers are numerous though most commonly they're caused some kind of self-inflicted mouth injury such as biting the inside of the cheek.

Here are some other causes of mouth ulcers:

• Food allergies
• Eating acidic fruit such as oranges, tomatoes and pineapples.
• Viral/bacterial infections
• Poor oral hygiene
• Gum disease
• Sinusitis
• A deficiency of Vitamin B
• Dysfunctional immune system
• Poor digestion
• Stress

• Supplement your diet with a vitamin B complex and vitamin C
• Digestive bitters may help improve digestion
• Clove and tea tree oil may help with the pain

Mouth ulcers are in most cases harmless and heal in just a few days but continued attacks are a good indicator of being run down.

To help the healing process along and to minimise repeat attacks do the following:

• Eat a diet rich in red and yellow vegetables, whole grains and cereals, non-citrus fruit, lean meat and seafood.
• Undertake moderate exercise, get out and get some fresh air and make sure you're sleeping well
• Reduce stress through natural therapies and activities such as yoga or meditation

Whilst suffering from mouth ulcers, spicy foods and any food known to cause problems, such as acidic fruit, should be avoided.

Consult your healthcare professional if the ulcers don't heal.