An area where the lining of the stomach and the tissues beneath, and sometimes part of the stomach muscle itself, have been eroded leaving an open wound inside the stomach. The surrounding tissue is usually swollen and irritated. It is caused by improper diet (too much protein from animal foods- The World Health Organization recommends that protein should only be 5% of the daily caloric intake, or about 40 grams). The digestion of animal foods and excess protein causes large quantities of acids to be produced in the intestines, which over time can increase stomach acidity and lead to ulcers. Steroids, such as those taken for arthritis, and even ascorbic acid (synthetic vitamin C supplements), can contribute to stomach ulcers. Heavy smokers are prone to developing ulcers. Stress and anxiety cause an increase in acid production which can lead to ulcers.
Chronic burning or gnawing stomach pain that usually begins 45 to 60 minutes after eating, or at night and is relieved by eating, taking antacids, vomiting, or drinking a large glass of water. Pain may range from mild to severe, it may cause the individual to awaken in the middle of the night. Other symptoms include lower back pain, headaches, a choking sensation, itching, and possible nausea and vomiting.
The key to healing ulcers is to stop eating excess animal proteins
that cause acidity and start eating alkalizing foods that will re-balance
the ph in the blood stream. This will create the necessary internal
environment to allow these internal wounds to close up and heal. Eat three
small meals and three snacks evenly spaced throughout the day. It is
important to avoid periods of hunger or overeating. Be relaxed at mealtime.
Eat slowly and chew foods well.
Things To Avoid:
- All Animal Foods (they produce excess acids which corrode the lining of the stomach): dairy foods (milk, cheese, butter, cream, ice cream), fish, meat, chicken, turkey, eggs, fried and greasy foods, margarine, and all other processed foods and animal derived products from your diet. (Read foods that destroy) These foods are laced with chemicals, pesticides, and toxins as well as high levels of saturated fats which have a very damaging a draining effect on the body.
- Salt, tobacco, caffeine, strong spices, sodas, coffee, sugar, and refined white flour (breads, pastas, cereals- replace with whole wheat pastas, breads, and cereals). These products are extraordinarily destructive to the body.
- Antacids only mask the underlying problem and are not a good solution.
Include a good source of protein (milk, meat, egg, cheese, etc.) at each
meal and snack. Antacids should be taken in the prescribed dose, One-hour
and 3 hours after meals and prior to bedtime. This regimen is most likely
to keep the acidity of the stomach at the most stable and lowest level. Milk
and cream feedings should not be used as antacid therapy. Although milk protein
has an initial neutralizing effect on gastric acid, it is also a very potent
stimulator. Hourly feedings of milk have been shown to produce a lower pH than
three regular meals. Caffeine-containing beverages (coffee, tea, and cola drinks)
and decaffeinated coffee cause increased gastric acid production but may be taken
in moderation at or near mealtime, if tolerated.
