If you are suffering from peptic ulcers, you should know that they are more often caused by stress and spicy foods. Doctors now believe that peptic ulcers can also occur because of bacterial infections and strong medications. This is one of the main reasons that the recommended diet has changed drastically in the last few years. The emphasis is more on ensuring that patients consume the right amount of nutrients rather than forcing them to eat bland food, day after day.

Dietary tips to keep in mind
If you are diagnosed with peptic ulcers, you need to modify your current diet so that you do not aggravate your current condition any longer. Furthermore, it should be noted that eating certain food items in your current condition can cause inflammation, leading to severe heartburns. It is essential that you consult your doctor or a dietician for dietary tips.

There are certain food items which are easier on your stomach when you have got a peptic ulcer.

• Eat fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, especially greens and canned vegetables.
• Consume more milk and dairy products as they can help buffer your stomach and prevent your ulcer from getting inflamed. Opt for low fat or fat-free dairy products, including cheese. Do note that you may want to opt for dairy products that have 5 gm of fat per ounce.
• Whole grain or enriched bread, grains, low-fat tortillas, and low-fat bakery products.
• Consume barley, rice as well as pasta.
• You can also eat pancakes, waffles provided they are made with low-fat ingredients
• You can also go in for lean meats. The lean cuts include beef, pork, lamb, veal, skinless poultry, fish, bacon, and lean ham.
• You can eat eggs if your doctor permits you to do so.
• Smooth peanut butter
• Low-fat snacks such as pretzels and rice cakes and crisps

Foods to avoid
Given that you are currently suffering from peptic ulcer, it makes sense to avoid certain food items that can inflame your ulcer, and in turn heartburns.

• Fried and/or spicy foods
• Coffee, decaf coffee, tea, and cola. In a nutshell, anything with caffeine should be avoided.
• Carbonated beverages
• Citrus fruits and citrus juices
• Chocolates
• Food items that have high-fat content
• Raw vegetables such as cauliflower, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions and generally vegetables prepared with added fat.
• Fatty meats
• Tomato juice

You now know what to eat and what to avoid when suffering from peptic ulcers. You need to consult your physician regularly, get regular checkups and even consult a dietician if some of the above-mentioned foods do not agree with you. These ulcers are curable with proper care and sufficient time.