Dietary Modifications and Guidelines

DIETARY MODIFICATIONS

Bland diet is given for ulcer patients. Bland diet is a diet which is mechanically, chemically and thermally non-irritating.

1.     Mechanically irritating foods include those with indigestible carbohydrate such as whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables.

Foods that stimulate gastric secretion are chemically irritating foods and these include meat extractives, caffeine, alcohol, spices.

2.     Thermally irritating foods are those foods served either very hot or iced.

The diet must be nutritionally adequate in order to correct any preexisting deficiencies and to promote healing. This must be based on individual needs and food tolerances.

1.     Milk should be included as protein provides the necessary amino acids for synthesis of tissue protein to heal the ulcer.

2.     Moderate amounts of fat help to suppress gastric secretion.

3.     Fried foods are not advised as they are difficult to digest and aggravate the symptoms.

4.     Ascorbic acid helps in wound healing; hence citrus fruit juice and tomato juice can be given.

Dietary Guidelines

1.     Whether a patient is on bland or regular diet, a balanced diet should be taken.

2.     Regularity of meal times is essential. Small frequent meals are beneficial.

3.     Instead of heavy meals moderate amounts of foods should be eaten.

4.     In between meals, protein rich snacks should be taken.

5.     Meals should be eaten in a relaxed atmosphere. Personal and family problems should be forgotten while eating.

6.     Food should be eaten slowly and chewed well. Fast eating provokes gastric feeding reflex.

7.     Smoking, drinking coffee and alcohol should be avoided particularly on an empty stomach.

8.     Adequate physical and mental rest is basic.