Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be caused by a number of factors, including infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Gastritis can also be caused by autoimmune disorders, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Symptoms of gastritis can include:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Burning sensation in the upper abdomen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Belching
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for gastritis, there are a number of foods that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. These foods include:
Bland foods: Bland foods are less likely to irritate the stomach lining. Good examples of bland foods include rice, toast, crackers, and bananas.
Low-fat foods: High-fat foods can aggravate gastritis symptoms. It is best to choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products and lean meats.
Fiber-rich foods: Fiber helps to keep the digestive system moving and can help to prevent constipation, which can worsen gastritis symptoms. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Probiotic foods: Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for gut health. Probiotics can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the stomach lining. Good sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
Water: It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you have gastritis. Water helps to keep the digestive system hydrated and can help to flush out toxins.
Here are some sample meal plans for people with gastritis:
Breakfast
- Oatmeal with berries and nuts
- Yogurt with fruit and granola
- Toast with avocado and eggs
Lunch
- Salad with grilled chicken or fish
- Soup and sandwich on whole-wheat bread
- Leftovers from dinner
Dinner
- Grilled salmon with roasted vegetables
- Chicken stir-fry with brown rice
- Lentil soup with cornbread
It is also important to avoid certain foods and drinks that can irritate the stomach lining and worsen gastritis symptoms. These foods and drinks include:
- Spicy foods
- Fatty foods
- Caffeinated drinks
- Alcohol
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Garlic
If you have gastritis, it is important to listen to your body and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. Everyone is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It is also important to keep a food journal to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. This can help you to identify foods that you should avoid and foods that you can tolerate. If you are struggling to manage your gastritis symptoms with diet alone, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as medication or surgery.
