What Is Gastritis?
Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute gastritis), or it can develop over time (chronic gastritis). Gastritis can be caused by a number of things, including infection, stress, certain medications, and autoimmune conditions.
Peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). An ulcer develops when the acid and digestive juices that break down food damage the walls of these organs. Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is the medical term used to describe all conditions that result in ulcers.
Symptoms of Gastritis
The most common symptom of gastritis is pain in the upper abdomen. Other gastritis symptoms include nausea, vomiting, bloating, belching, and indigestion. In some cases, gastritis can lead to ulcers and bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor, so they can diagnose and treat the condition.
Causes of Gastritis, Diagnoses, and Treatment
While acute gastritis typically resolves on its own, chronic gastritis may require medical treatment. Generally, the first step in treating gastritis is identifying and eliminating the underlying cause. For example, if the condition is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If excess alcohol consumption is the culprit, reducing alcohol intake or abstaining from alcohol altogether is often recommended.
Addressing any contributing lifestyle factors, such as smoking or stress, is also important in managing gastritis. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to reduce stomach acid production and relieve symptoms. With proper treatment and a good diet for gastritis, most cases of gastritis can be effectively managed.
Diet for Gastritis: Bland Diet
Bland foods are those that are soft, low in fiber, and not spicy and are good in a diet for gastritis. They are often easy to digest and can be tolerated by those who have gastrointestinal issues. Common bland foods include crackers, bread, rice, applesauce, and mashed potatoes.
While bland foods may not be the most exciting items on the menu, they can be a lifesaver for those with digestive issues. When stomach acids come into contact with food that is high in fiber or spices, it can trigger an inflammatory response. This can lead to pain, cramping, and diarrhea. Bland foods, on the other hand, are gentle on the digestive system and can help to calm an upset stomach.
Diet for Gastritis: What Should You Eat?
Diet for gastritis is meant to protect the lining of the stomach and intestines. When the lining of the gastrointestinal tract is inflamed, it’s important to eat foods that are gentle on the stomach and won’t further irritate the condition. A diet for gastritis typically includes plenty of bland, easy-to-digest foods that are low in acidity.
Your digestive system is very sensitive, so it’s important to eat a diet for gastritis that is tailored to your specific needs and symptoms. Some people may find that they can tolerate some foods that are acidic, while others may need to avoid them altogether.
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for gastritis, there are certain foods that can help to ease symptoms and promote healing. These include:
- low-fat proteins such as chicken and fish;
- probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut;
- fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens;
- plenty of water;
- milk, yogurt, and low fat cheeses.
Gastritis diet should include foods that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by inflammation.
Foods to Avoid on a Gastritis Diet
Diet plays a big role in controlling gastritis. There are certain foods that can trigger an attack or make symptoms worse. Avoiding these foods can help keep gastritis under control. Acidic foods can also make symptoms worse. Heavy meals may also trigger an attack by causing the stomach to produce more acid. Eating smaller meals more often can help prevent this. It is also important to avoid overeating, as this can put additional strain on the stomach.
Foods that should be avoided while on diet for gastritis include:
- coffee;
- alcohol;
- spicy foods;
- acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes;
- heavy meals: fat, fried foods;
- processed meats such as bacon and sausage;
- chocolate.
If you have gastritis, it’s important to talk to your doctor about what diet for gastritis is best for you. They can help you create a diet plan that meets your individual needs and helps to control your symptoms.
Making lifestyle changes, such as following a gastritis diet, can help to ease symptoms and promote healing.
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