Gastroenterology Specialist Dr. states that ulcers are open wounds or tissue losses on the inner surface of the digestive system organs such as the stomach or duodenum. İbrahim Yılmaz gave information about the things that should be taken into consideration in protecting against this disease that threatens stomach health.
“CAUSES BLEEDING AND PAINFUL WOUNDS”
Pointing out that the most common types of ulcers are stomach (gastric) ulcer and duodenal ulcer. Dr. Yılmaz said, “Ulcer occurs as a result of the decrease in the mucus layer that protects the stomach and duodenum from digestive enzymes, and digestive acids damage these unprotected layers, causing bleeding, painful wounds, that is, ulcer formation.”
“EXCESSIVELY SPICY FOODS AND ACIDIC DRINKS CAN IRRITATE THE STOMACH”
Stating that some foods can irritate the stomach and trigger ulcers or worsen existing ulcer symptoms, Specialist said. Dr. Yilmaz said that these include overly spicy foods, acidic drinks (coffee, tea, cola and carbonated drinks), alcoholic beverages, acidic foods such as pickles and vinegar, and fried or heavily fatty foods.
ERRORS THAT CAUSE ULCERS
Specialist Dr. Yılmaz listed some mistakes that cause ulcers as follows:
“Irregular nutrition: Skipping meals or fasting for a long time can increase stomach acid and irritate the mucosa.
Smoking: Nicotine increases the risk of ulcers by increasing stomach acid.
Excessive use of painkillers: Especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can damage the protective layer of the stomach.
Genetic predisposition, alcohol, coffee habit and cortisone drugs: Other possible causes include genetic predisposition (heredity), cortisone-type drugs, alcohol, coffee habit and environmental pollution.”
“STRESS CAN ALSO CAUSE ULCER”
Specialist Dr. Yılmaz said, “Stress can also weaken the mucosa by increasing stomach acid production. “In addition, irregular eating habits and turning to harmful foods due to stress can also trigger ulcers,” he said.
NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PATIENTS
Pointing out that the diet recommended for ulcer patients should include foods that do not irritate the stomach and do not increase acid production. Dr. Yılmaz made the following suggestions:
“Eat regular, small meals. Choose warm and light foods. Consume foods that are low in fat and easy to digest. Adopt a healthy, planned and programmed diet. For this reason, stay away from fried, excessively sugary, salty and fatty foods as much as possible. Drink plenty of fluids. Reduce your tea and coffee consumption, as excessive caffeine consumption may trigger ulcers. Consume light, steamed meals. Eat smaller, more frequent portions. “Do not neglect snacks to prevent your stomach from remaining empty for a long time.”