What Foods Should Be Avoided with Gastric Ulcers?

Some patients believe that consuming soft foods can reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and thereby decrease ulcer recurrence. As a result, they have long relied on congee and noodles, even cooking vegetables until thoroughly softened before eating. They frequently drink milk or soy milk to protect the gastric mucosa and adopt a “small, frequent meals” dietary pattern. In fact, such overcautious approaches are unnecessary—and these beliefs and habits may actually hinder ulcer treatment. So, what foods should be avoided by individuals with gastric ulcers?

Foods to Avoid with Gastric Ulcers

Patients with gastric ulcers should avoid spicy, stimulating, sour, raw, and cold vegetables, melons, and fruits. These foods should be consumed sparingly. Similarly, overly greasy, high-fat, and hard-to-digest foods should also be limited. Some individuals smoke or drink alcohol—these harmful habits must be discontinued. Additionally, excessive consumption of strong tea or coffee should be avoided, as both can irritate the gastric mucosa.

Red fruits such as grapes, black currants, raspberries, and strawberries—rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant—may be consumed. Anthocyanins help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby delaying aging and exerting anticancer effects. Fruits high in vitamin C—such as jujubes (Chinese dates), kiwifruit, hawthorn, and citrus fruits—are also beneficial. Vitamin C not only fulfills essential nutritional functions but also acts as a natural antioxidant.

      Medication is commonly used in daily management, including antacids such as aluminum hydroxide gel. We hope this information proves helpful to you.