Ulcers are open sores in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. They develop mostly in the stomach, duodenum, or oesophagus. They form when the environment of these surfaces are so acidic that their mucosal linings slowly erode. Spicy foods, stress, long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and the bacteria Helicobacter pylori are responsible for ulcers. Although the stomach secretes acid for food digestion, special mucus protects its walls from the corrosive actions of the acid. When the protections lessens, stomach acid eats into the lining of the stomach to form open sores



The bacteria, Helicobacter pylori which are responsible for most ulcers, weaken the protective mucus coat in the stomach or duodenum, the part of the intestine close to the stomach. This allows stomach acid and other digestive juice to erode the surface of the digestive tract below the mucus.

Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is the second leading cause of ulcers. The drugs provide relief from pain by blocking prostaglandin - a chemical produced in the body. This also reduces blood flow in the vessels supplying the stomach, also making the stomach lining susceptible to the corrosive actions of digestive juices.

Fruits To Eat
Fruits you can eat while treating ulcers include:
1. Apple
2. Peach
3. Berries
4. Pear
5. Melon
6. Banana
7. Kiwi

Also, drink lots of water. These fruits can be taken in raw form or you can choose to steam or juice them. Some fruits are especially helpful in relieving the symptoms of ulcers and can even protect against Helicobacter pylori. Fruits like apples, cranberry and their juices contain flavonoids and antioxidants that inhibit the growth of the bacteria. You should also take fruits rich in fibre unless you also have inflammatory bowel disease.



Fruits to Avoid - Acidifying fruits

One of the ways to reduce pain from ulcers is to avoid foods and beverages that could increase the acidity in the stomach. Some fluids contribute to stomach acids and should be avoided when treating ulcers. They are known as citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, and limes. You should also avoid tomatoes and grapefruit. These fruits can worsen the symptoms of ulcer and cause acid reflux and heartburn.

While these fruits help in treating ulcers, it does not stop the need to see your doctor.

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