Some patients find that their condition is aggravated by certain foods. Common culprits are citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, fatty foods, alcohol and caffeine. Cooked vegetables, non-citrus fruit and soft, easily digested foods such as porridge are preferable.
- Take the time to chew your meals properly in order to give your stomach time to prepare for the food's arrival by producing digestive juices.
- Stop smoking, and avoid smoky environments.
- Stress reduction should be an integral part of your approach to healing your stomach ulcer. Consider taking a vitamin B complex supplement to help your body cope in times of increased stress, and incorporate regular relaxation practices, such as meditation or yoga, into your lifestyle.
Your healthcare professional may conduct tests for H. pylori, even if you don't have symptoms of ulcer disease. This is because the presence of the bacteria is a risk factor for the development of stomach ulcers and more serious conditions.
Be sure to chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly in order to keep your stomach functioning healthily. Eating on the run and when under stress can lead to an imbalance of the various digestive juices and enzymes required for proper food breakdown and absorption.