Can patients with gastric ulcers drink pure milk?

Patients with gastric ulcers can drink pure milk in moderation, but should avoid drinking it on an empty stomach.

Pure milk is rich in minerals and protein, providing good nutritional value for the general population. However, for patients with gastric ulcers, the gastric mucosa is already damaged, and some patients may also have abnormal gastric acid secretion. Certain components in milk, such as lactose and fat, may stimulate gastric acid secretion, thereby worsening gastric discomfort or delaying ulcer healing. Therefore, patients with gastric ulcers are advised to avoid consuming large amounts of whole milk during active stages of the disease. Instead, they may choose low-fat or skim milk in moderation and monitor their individual response.

In addition, although pure milk can neutralize gastric acid, the lactose content may stimulate acid secretion, which could worsen symptoms of gastric ulcers. Therefore, patients with gastric ulcers are not advised to drink pure milk on an empty stomach. If patients wish to consume pure milk, it is recommended to drink it after eating other foods, such as biscuits or bread, in order to reduce direct irritation to the stomach.

At the same time, maintaining good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle is also important.