Can people with gastric ulcers eat corn?

Jul 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I saw many vendors selling corn at the vegetable market, but I have a stomach ulcer. May I ask if I can eat corn?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Patients with gastric ulcers need to be particularly careful with their diet to avoid irritating the gastric mucosa and worsening the condition. Corn, as a type of coarse grain, contains abundant dietary fiber that helps promote intestinal motility and can be consumed in moderation.

Gastric ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer characterized by ulceration of the mucosa or deeper layers of the stomach lining. Patients should primarily consume bland foods. Corn contains nutrients such as protein and vitamins; moderate consumption by patients with gastric ulcers can help replenish the body's nutritional needs. Additionally, corn contains dietary fiber that can promote gastrointestinal motility, aid digestion, and thereby reduce the burden on the stomach, facilitating disease recovery.

Corn should be thoroughly cooked before consumption to avoid accidentally ingesting residual pesticides, which could lead to food poisoning symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Moreover, patients who are allergic to corn should avoid eating it to prevent allergic reactions such as skin itching and laryngeal edema.

It is recommended that patients with gastric ulcers strictly quit smoking and drinking alcohol in their daily lives and strive to eat meals at regular times and in appropriate quantities. Patients can take a light walk for half an hour after meals to help accelerate digestion.