Spicy and fried foods may worsen gastritis. Foods high in fiber and low in fat may be easier to digest and provide relief.
The term gastritis refers to any condition that
Gastritis can be acute or chronic. Acute gastritis comes on suddenly and severely, while chronic gastritis lasts for a longer time.
Different factors cause different types of gastritis. Symptoms include:
- indigestion
- abdominal pain
- nausea
- feeling full
For most people, gastritis is minor and will go away quickly after treatment. However, some forms of gastritis can produce ulcers or increase the risk of cancer.
Diet is an important player in your digestive and overall health. Following a gastritis-friendly diet can go a long way toward relieving your symptoms and helping you feel better.
Diet does not generally cause chronic gastritis, but some people find that the following foods and drinks may
- high fiber foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans
- low fat foods, such as fish, lean meats, and vegetables
- foods with low acidity, including vegetables and beans
- noncarbonated drinks
- caffeine-free drinks
According to a
These bacteria cause an infection in the digestive system, which can lead to gastritis or stomach ulcers. In fact, H. pylori is the
For this reason, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor to see if you might benefit from probiotic supplements.
Some types of gastritis can make it
Foods that are high in fat
For some people, food allergies can trigger gastritis. In these cases, identifying and avoiding these foods
Some forms of gastritis
Foods that
- acidic foods, such as tomatoes and some fruits
- alcohol
- carbonated drinks
- coffee
- fatty foods
- fried foods
- fruit juices
- pickled foods
- spicy foods
If you notice that a certain food or food group makes your symptoms worse, avoiding this food can prevent symptoms. This is particularly true when it comes to food allergies.
Other dietary habits to avoid
A 2022 cohort study found that
They also tended to eat more leftover foods, as well as eat triggering foods such as certain spicy, sweet, or salty foods. In addition, they tended not to eat consistent portions of food, snacked, and ate more barbecued food.
If you recognize any of these habits in your lifestyle, making some changes might help reduce your flare-ups. For example, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help ease your symptoms.
Left untreated, some types of gastritis can eventually lead to a stomach ulcer, also called a peptic ulcer. If you have an ulcer, the types of foods that you should eat or avoid are similar to those for gastritis.
With an ulcer, you should make sure you are getting foods full of nutrients. Following a healthful, balanced diet makes it easier for the ulcer to heal.
The following foods
- milk, yogurt, and low fat cheeses
- vegetable oils and olive oil
- some fruits, including apples, melons, and bananas
- some vegetables, including leafy greens, carrots, spinach, and zucchini
- lentils, chickpeas, and soybeans
- lean meats
- natural juices
That said, there is very little
Different types of gastritis have
- bacterial infection by H. pylori
- stomach lining damage from certain medications, alcohol, infections, treatments, or surgery
- major injury or illness
- autoimmune disease
- food allergies
Your doctor can help you determine the cause of your symptoms, especially in cases where the cause is not readily evident.
Learn more about gastritis causes.
If you have gastritis, your doctor will likely:
- prescribe antibiotics for gastritis caused by H. pylori
- recommend over-the-counter medications, including antacids, for symptom relief
- recommend appropriate dietary and lifestyle changes
Learn more about gastritis treatments.
What are the warning signs of gastritis?
Gastritis symptoms typically involve stomach pain, indigestion, bloating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, burping, and flatulence.
What can cause a gastritis flare-up?
Medications, bacterial infections like H. pylori, fatty foods, physical and mental stress, alcohol consumption, or eating foods you’re sensitive to may cause gastritis symptoms to develop.
Can you eat eggs if you have gastritis?
Yes, you
What else can you eat on a bland diet for gastritis?
Unless you’re sensitive or allergic to any of these, bland foods may include cottage cheese, mashed carrots and pumpkin, avocados, bananas, boiled potatoes, soft pasta, soda crackers, rice, skinless chicken, and chamomile tea.
What foods help heal gastritis?
You may find low fat and non-acidic foods helpful. Other foods to eat if you have gastritis include fruits and vegetables, fish, lean meats, and caffeine-free teas.
What else soothes gastritis?
Eating slowly, opting for smaller portions, preferring home-cooked meals, and not lying down after eating may help you prevent and soothe gastritis symptoms.
What is the best drink for gastritis?
Clear liquids such as broth or tea would be best in cases of gastritis. There’s also research suggesting that drinking green tea with honey at least once a week is associated with a lower prevalence of gastritis caused by H. pylori.
The length of time your gastritis lasts once you begin treatment depends on the type, cause, and severity.
Most of the time, gastritis will improve quickly after beginning treatment. Talk with your doctor if your gastritis symptoms are severe or last more than a week.
When considering diet changes or new medications, it’s best to check with a doctor first.
