Peptic Ulcers
Description
This page has 47 references
"Peptic Ulcers" are open sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or the upper portion of the small intestine. These lesions form when protective mucosal barriers weaken, allowing stomach acid to damage underlying tissue. Common causes include H. pylori infection or long-term NSAID use. Symptoms include burning abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or blood in stools. Early treatment with antibiotics, antacids, lifestyle changes, and dietary support reduces complications and promotes digestive comfort, healing, and long-term gut health.
Symptoms & Signs
Body System
Digestive System
Causes
Damage to The Gastrointestinal Lining, Bacterial Infection, Anti-inflammatory Medications, Emotional Stress, Smoking, Allergies, Hypercalcemia
Things To Do
The dietary recommendations for peptic ulcers include:
a whole-foods-based diet consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean meat, fish, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats.
A high-fiber diet has protective effects on the gastrointestinal tract. It slows down digestion and the emptying of the stomach.
foods rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A has been shown to increase mucus secretion in animal models. Mucus protects the lining of the GI tract.
foods rich in vitamin K. Vitamin K aids in the healing of ulcers.
foods rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E deficiency is associated with the occurrence of peptic ulcers.
foods rich in zinc. Zinc aids in the healing of damaged tissues and increases mucin production.
foods rich in vitamin B12. The use of antacids and intestinal bleeding both quickly deplete vitamin B12, which causes anemia.
foods rich in iron. Bleeding ulcers cause the loss of blood and, therefore, iron. These factors contribute to anemia.
probiotic foods, which promote the health of the gut and help combat gastrointestinal infections induced by H. plyiori.
foods with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties [especially garlic, turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon]. They will help reduce inflammation and counteract the effects of the infection.
stay hydrated. Drink water (add a little bit of lemon juice to it) and herbal tea. Additionally, raw cabbage juice contains glutamine, which aids in the healing of ulcers.
consume nutrient-dense but smaller meals throughout the day. Your weakened stomach acid production affects the digestion process.
Cook at home. Steam, boil, or bake your foods. Chew them thoroughly and practice a mindful eating habit.
If your condition is aggravated and your ulcers are bleeding, consume pureed organic foods, light soups, and easy-to-digest produce, and use a blender to prepare your meals.
Furthermore, try the following:
Get quality sleep to aid in the recovery of the GI tract. Do not eat close to bedtime, and sleep with your head elevated.
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.
a light workout routine. It affects the immune system and can help reduce some of the symptoms.
get daily fresh air and sun exposure.
Spend time with your friends and family to reduce stress and maintain good mental health.
Make sure you have regular bowel movements. They promote gut health and support proper detoxification.
To ease the pain, try applying a hot castor oil compress to your abdomen.
Things To Avoid
The dietary don'ts for peptic ulcers include:
processed, junk, and fast foods. They are difficult to digest, devoid of fiber, and filled with ingredients that promote inflammation and potentially damage the GI tract lining.
spicy and deep-fried foods. They will contribute to increased pain and discomfort.
alcohol, coffee, caffeinated drinks, cabonated beverages, etc. They will increase the severity of your symptoms.
sugar, artificial sweeteners, sugary snacks, desserts, candy, etc. Sugar contributes to increased stomach acid production and is highly inflammatory.
trans fats, which have damaging effects on gut health.
refined carbohydrates. Reduced consumption of refined carbohydrates is associated with a smaller rate of ulcers.
hot beverages and very hot food. They can irritate the stomach.
acidic foods, including vegetables and fruits. They can cause abdominal discomfort.
added sodium. Excessive salt consumption increases the virulence of H. plyori and leads to a more severe infection.
in hypercalcemia, avoid foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, dark leafy greens, broccoli, etc.
Furthermore, steer away from:
smoking, which is a big contributory factor to peptic ulcers.
painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. They can make your condition worse.
chronic stress.
sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity.
Supplements
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements directly affect peptic ulcers by promoting mucosal healing, reducing gastric acid, or protecting the stomach lining from further damage.
Zinc-L-Carnosine: Zinc-L-carnosine promotes the repair of damaged tissue and reduces inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Its antioxidant properties help safeguard the stomach lining, supporting overall digestive health.
Probiotics: Probiotics such as Lactobacillus reuteri and Bifidobacterium bifidum restore gut flora balance and inhibit H. pylori, contributing to digestive health and tissue recovery.
Glutamine: Glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid that promotes gastric mucosal healing by supporting enterocyte health and reducing inflammation. It contributes to ulcer healing and prevention of recurrence.
Collagen/Elastin/Hyaluronic Acid: Collagen encourages fibroblast growth, strengthening the gastric lining. Elastin improves tissue resilience, while hyaluronic acid enhances hydration and wound healing, benefiting tissue repair.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements do not target peptic ulcers directly but may support digestive balance, reduce inflammation, or improve stress-related gastrointestinal symptoms.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Natural Compounds
These natural compounds may help manage peptic ulcers by protecting the gastrointestinal lining, reducing inflammation, or supporting acid balance.
Manuka Honey: Manuka honey has antibacterial activity against H. pylori and promotes gastric mucosal healing. It has beneficial effects and helps manage peptic ulcers.
Cabbage Juice: Cabbage juice is rich in vitamin U (S-methylmethionine), known for its protective effects on the stomach lining. It has been shown to support the healing of the gastric mucosa, aiding in digestive recovery.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar (ACV), based on anecdotal evidence, may improve digestion by balancing stomach acidity. Its acetic acid content is also believed to support digestive enzyme activity, which can aid in reducing discomfort.
Plant Extracts
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These plant extracts directly support peptic ulcer relief by soothing the stomach lining, reducing acid-related irritation, or promoting tissue repair.
Mastic Gum [Pistacia Lentiscus]: Mastic gum contains isomasticadienolic acid, which shows strong bactericidal effects against H. pylori. It supports healing by reducing bacteria in the digestive tract and promoting recovery of the stomach lining.
Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice [DGL]:DGL protects the stomach lining by increasing mucus production and reducing inflammation. Unlike standard licorice, it’s free of glycyrrhizin, making it safe for long-term use in managing peptic ulcers.
Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera juice soothes the stomach lining by reducing irritation and inflammation. Its ability to enhance mucus production supports the healing process and promotes digestive comfort.
Slippery Elm Bark Extract: Slippery elm forms a mucilaginous coating that soothes and protects the stomach lining. It can help reduce ulcer pain and promoting healing.
Marshmallow Root Extract: Marshmallow root contains mucilage that coats and protects the gastrointestinal lining. Evidence supports its use in relieving ulcer discomfort and enhancing mucosal healing.
Curcumin: Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help protect the gastric lining. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, it promotes better healing in the digestive system.
Barley Grass Powder: Barley grass, rich in antioxidants, reduces oxidative stress and supports healing in the digestive tract. Its anti-inflammatory effects promote intestinal health and repair.
Green Tea Extract: Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the stomach lining. It also shows promise in inhibiting H. pylori growth, potentially reducing risks linked to digestive discomfort.
Cayenne Pepper Extract: Capsaicin, a compound found in cayenne peppers, stimulates mucus production in the stomach. This increased mucus helps protect the stomach lining, offering support against irritation.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These extracts do not act directly on peptic ulcers but may support gut health, reduce oxidative stress, or enhance microbial balance in the digestive tract.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Alternative Treatments
These alternative therapies support digestive healing, reduce gastric irritation, and promote mucosal recovery in individuals with peptic ulcers.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture may enhance gastrointestinal function and alleviate stress by targeting Stomach 36 (Zusanli), located below the knee on the outer shin, and Spleen 6 (Sanyinjiao), three finger widths above the inner ankle. These points support digestive health and healing.
Guided Meditation: Stress significantly impacts ulcer development and recovery. Guided meditation reduces stress hormones and gastric acid secretion, supporting healing.
Far-Infrared Heat Therapy: FIR therapy improves circulation to the gastrointestinal area and may support repair by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Supported mostly by anecdotal reports.
Functional Lab Tests You May Wish to Explore
Books Worth Considering for Deeper Insight
Currently, no high-quality books meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. As soon as trusted resources are published, we will review and feature them here.
Podcasts That Offer Valuable Perspectives
Currently, no high-quality books meeting our functional, integrative, and natural healing standards are available for this condition. As soon as trusted resources are published, we will review and feature them here.
Educational Videos To Learn From
How Key Nutrients Support the Body
Amino Acids: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, crucial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, they play key roles in maintaining proper pH levels, storing nitrogen, synthesizing hormones, and facilitating enzymatic reactions.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Essential Nutrients Explained
References
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