Can patients with gastritis eat Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra)?

Jun 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
During the acute exacerbation of gastritis, or when the patient's condition is severe and the gastric mucosa is particularly fragile, it is not recommended to consume Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra), as it may worsen the condition. Chinese bayberry has an acidic and astringent taste and contains large amounts of organic acids, such as citric acid and malic acid. These organic acids may irritate the gastric mucosa, stimulate excessive secretion of gastric acid, and cause abdominal discomfort. In addition, patients who are allergic to Chinese bayberry should also avoid consumption.

If the patient's condition is stable and there are no discomfort symptoms, eating bayberries is generally acceptable. However, if the condition is severe, consumption is typically not advised.

If gastritis patients are in a stable phase of the disease and experience no significant gastric discomfort, such as stomach pain or bloating, moderate consumption of fresh, ripe bayberries generally won't cause noticeable discomfort. Bayberries contain vitamin C and dietary fiber, which are beneficial to health, but intake should be controlled to avoid excessive consumption.

During an acute flare-up of gastritis, or when the patient's condition is severe and the gastric mucosa is particularly fragile, eating bayberries is not recommended, as it may worsen the condition. Bayberries have a sour and astringent taste and contain large amounts of organic acids, such as citric acid and malic acid. These organic acids may irritate the gastric mucosa, increase gastric acid secretion, and cause abdominal discomfort. Additionally, patients allergic to bayberries should also avoid consumption.

Gastritis patients should avoid consuming spicy, sour, greasy, and irritating foods. In daily diets, maintaining a balanced dietary structure and diverse nutrient intake is recommended to help maintain health.

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