Do You Suffer From Gastritis? Follow A Diet!

Everyone knows that gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa , accompanied by unpleasant pain and burning along the esophagus (heartburn). In addition to the unpleasant sensation, the disease is the cause of reduced absorption of important nutrients.

Chronic gastritis can lead to serious complications, but the good news is that the disease is treatable through medication and in some cases only with a change in diet and lifestyle.

In most cases, the acute symptoms disappear within a week or two after dieting and removing the cause of inflammation.

A few restrictions should be observed in acute gastritis - eat less and more often, avoid the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( Nimesulide, Ibuprofene, Piroxicam, Diclofenac , etc.), limit alcohol consumption, stop smoking, reduce stress.

Everyone with gastritis reacts differently to different foods, so it is best to start a diet by the method of exclusion . Keep track of which foods exacerbate the condition and remove them from your menu.

What are the foods you should avoid in gastritis?

• Citrus fruits and juices. Orange, lemon, grapefruit, lime contain large amounts of natural acids, which are usually useful. In people suffering from gastritis, they can cause exacerbation of the disease. Clinical tests show that citrus helps release neurotransmitters that increase pain in people with stomach inflammation.

• Tomatoes. Like citrus fruits, tomatoes are also an acidic food and can irritate the sensitive stomach. Small amounts may not be a problem for some people. Others require their complete elimination from the diet.

• Milk and milk products. For years, milk was thought to protect the stomach lining. It turns out that this is not the case. Calcium and amino acids in milk stimulate the secretion of stomach acid and worsen the symptoms of gastritis. Check how milk consumption affects you. If you do not feel worse, there is no reason to exclude these useful products from your menu.

• Alcohol . Regular alcohol consumption damages the gastric mucosa and intensifies stomach pain.

• Caffeine . Caffeine alone does not cause gastritis or ulcers, but it can worsen symptoms. It is acidic in nature and can cause pain and burning behind the sternum.

• Spicy foods . They are also not the cause of the disease, but aggravate the symptoms of a pre-existing condition. Such foods are hot peppers, curry and others.

• Avoid fried foods, foods with added sugar, chips, trans fats. They all worsen the condition.

Which foods are recommended for gastritis and stomach ulcers?

• Foods containing antioxidants. Such are foods rich in vitamins. C (peppers, broccoli, rose hips, etc.), vit. A (liver, carrots, apricots), flavonoids (all fruits and vegetables contain them). They reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Sources of antioxidants are all fresh fruits and vegetables. Especially recommended for gastritis are: onions, pumpkin, peppers, leafy vegetables, artichokes, asparagus, celery, fennel, ginger, turmeric, blueberries, apples and more.

• Probiotic foods. Studies show that taking probiotics helps treat H. pylori. The main source of probiotic bacteria are dairy products (if you feel well after consuming them). Probiotics affect inflammation and the formation of stomach acid.

• Garlic . The effect of garlic on gastritis is disputed. According to some studies, it exacerbates gastritis and pain. Other studies claim that it is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and has a beneficial effect on the disease. Moreover, daily consumption of garlic has a protective effect on inflammatory conditions of the stomach and esophagus. 

• Foods rich in fiber. Fiber has a beneficial effect on gastritis and other diseases of the digestive system. Studies claim that high-fiber foods reduce the risk of developing stomach ulcers by up to 60%. Sources of fiber are legumes (beans, lentils), almonds, chia, etc.

• Omega 3 fatty acids and proteins. They support the regeneration of the gastric and intestinal mucosa and reduce inflammation. Include, once a week, fish in your menu. Omega 3 acids are also found in avocados, olive oil and others. Protein is found in meat, eggs, fish.