Can people with gastric ulcers drink honey water on an empty stomach in the morning?

Generally, whether patients with gastric ulcers can drink honey water on an empty stomach in the morning depends on the specific stage and symptoms of the ulcer. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly to adjust the diet plan. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the gastric ulcer is in the recovery phase—meaning the ulcer site has largely healed and the patient experiences no significant symptoms such as stomach pain, acid reflux, or heartburn—it is generally acceptable to drink a moderate amount of warm honey water on an empty stomach in the morning. Warm honey water is mild in texture and provides a small amount of energy to the body. When diluted, honey has minimal irritation to the gastric mucosa. As long as the concentration and quantity are properly controlled, it typically does not interfere with recovery and may even help improve digestive function upon waking.

However, if the gastric ulcer is in an acute flare-up phase, during which the patient frequently experiences stomach pain, acid reflux, or vomiting blood, drinking honey water on an empty stomach in the morning is not recommended. Honey contains a certain amount of sugar, which may stimulate gastric acid secretion when consumed on an empty stomach. This could worsen damage to the ulcer site, intensify symptoms such as pain and acid reflux, hinder ulcer healing, and potentially prolong the illness.

Before drinking honey water, patients should first determine the current stage of their ulcer; consumption on an empty stomach must be avoided during acute episodes. Use water at a temperature of 30–40 °C to mix the honey, control the amount used, and avoid making the solution too concentrated. If any stomach discomfort occurs after drinking, stop immediately and monitor symptoms. In daily life, maintain regular eating habits, avoid consuming irritating foods on an empty stomach, have regular follow-up checkups to assess ulcer recovery, and adjust your dietary pattern according to medical advice.