Ulcer Disease
Formation of a defect (ulcer) in the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or duodenum (duodenal ulcer). Main causes: Helicobacter pylori infection, NSAID use. Manifests as upper abdominal pain (often 'hunger' pain or nocturnal for duodenal ulcer), heartburn, nausea. Requires treatment (H. pylori eradication, proton pump inhibitors). Supplements (DGL, zinc carnosine, probiotics, mastic gum, L-glutamine) may promote mucosal healing as an adjunct to primary therapy.
- What may help
- 11
- What to avoid
- 34
What may help (11)
- Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) Supplements HighClinical
DGL supports the body's natural ability to heal peptic ulcers by stimulating protective mucus production and encouraging healthy cell regeneration in the stomach and duodenal lining.
- Naturopathy Practices HighClinical
Naturopathy effectively promotes healing in ulcer disease by protecting the stomach/duodenal lining. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), zinc carnosine, probiotics, and L-glutamine show high therapeutic probability in supporting mucosal integrity, reducing inflammation, and eradicating H. pylori (for some agents), alleviating pain and promoting ulcer resolution.
- BPC-157 Supplements HighAnimal research
Originally studied for its potent gastroprotective effects, oral BPC-157 is highly effective in accelerating the healing of stomach and intestinal ulcers.
- Eat Whole Foods Habits MediumClinical
A whole-food diet can support the healing of stomach or duodenal ulcers by reducing gut irritation and providing essential nutrients for mucosal repair. It minimizes exposure to inflammatory processed ingredients and offers compounds like zinc and L-glutamine (from proteins) that are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gastrointestinal lining, promoting faster recovery.
- Herbalism / Phytotherapy Practices MediumClinical
For peptic ulcers, Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL), Mastic Gum, and soothing herbs like Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root offer moderate therapeutic benefits. DGL promotes mucosal healing and protects the stomach lining, while Mastic Gum exhibits antibacterial effects against H. pylori, a common cause of ulcers. Clinical studies support their role in symptomatic relief and ulcer healing.
- Quitting: Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse Habits MediumClinical
Mitigation of gastrointestinal damage, such as stomach ulcers, commonly associated with chronic NSAID abuse. Certain supplements can support the integrity of the gastric mucosa, promoting healing and reducing inflammation (e.g., zinc-carnosine shows moderate effect sizes in clinical studies).
- Probiotics Supplements MediumClinical
Certain probiotic strains can aid in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori and reduce side effects of standard antibiotic therapy used for peptic ulcers.
- Lion's Mane Supplements MediumAnimal research
Lion's Mane may help protect the gastrointestinal lining and has been studied for its potential in supporting the healing of stomach ulcers and related conditions.
- Marshmallow Root Supplements MediumAnimal research
Marshmallow root supports the integrity of the gastrointestinal lining, potentially aiding in the soothing and protection of stomach and duodenal ulcers.
- Licorice Root Supplements Very highTheoretical
DGL licorice is well-regarded for its ability to promote the healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers by stimulating the natural protective factors of the gut lining.
- Integral Yoga Practices LowPeople reports
While not a direct treatment for ulcers, Integral Yoga may offer minimal relief by reducing stress, a factor that can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and hinder healing. However, its direct therapeutic role remains unproven.
What to avoid (34)
- Betaine (TMG) Supplements Very highClinical
Do not take Betaine HCl if you have stomach or duodenal ulcers, as its acidifying effect could worsen irritation and prevent healing.
- Pepsin Supplements Very highClinical
If you have stomach or duodenal ulcers, avoid this supplement. Its acid-activating properties can cause significant irritation and potentially worsen your condition.
- Ethanol (alcohol) Supplements HighClinical
Alcohol directly irritates the stomach lining and can worsen symptoms or impede healing of stomach or duodenal ulcers.
- Horse Chestnut Extract Supplements HighClinical
Avoid if you have stomach or duodenal ulcers due to the potential for irritation or bleeding risk.
- Iron Supplements HighClinical
If you have stomach ulcers, common iron salts can irritate your stomach lining and worsen discomfort. Explore gentler iron forms with your healthcare provider.
- Iyengar Yoga Practices HighClinical
If you have an acute bleeding ulcer, strenuous Iyengar Yoga, especially poses that put pressure on the abdomen or involve inversions, is strictly contraindicated. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Kundalini Yoga Practices HighClinical
Strenuous abdominal contractions and breathwork can aggravate existing stomach or duodenal ulcers, increasing pain and risk of complications. Avoid these practices.
- Bhastrika Pranayama Practices MediumClinical
Increased abdominal pressure from vigorous breathing may exacerbate pain or discomfort from stomach or duodenal ulcers. Avoid during active ulcer disease.
- Cigarette Smoking Habits MediumClinical
Smoking increases the risk of developing peptic ulcers and hinders their healing by reducing protective factors in the stomach lining and impairing blood flow.
- Engaging in Conflict Habits MediumClinical
Chronic engagement in conflict can worsen symptoms of peptic ulcer disease and gastritis by increasing stomach acid and inflammation. Prioritize stress reduction for better digestive health.
- Guarana Supplements MediumClinical
Avoid taking guarana if you have stomach ulcers, as its stimulating effect on acid production could cause irritation and delay healing.
- Lymphatic Drainage Massage Practices MediumClinical
If you have an active ulcer (e.g., gastric, duodenal), avoid abdominal lymphatic massage, as direct pressure can worsen pain or complications. Consult your doctor.
- Nicotine Supplements MediumClinical
Nicotine can hinder ulcer healing and potentially worsen symptoms in individuals with stomach ulcers.
- Time-Restricted Eating 16/8 Practices MediumClinical
Prolonged periods without food can lead to increased stomach acid or expose the stomach lining to existing acid, potentially irritating or exacerbating pre-existing ulcers or gastritis. Consult your doctor.
- Amanita Muscaria Supplements HighPeople reports
Due to the high risk of severe nausea and vomiting, Amanita Muscaria is not safe for individuals with stomach ulcers as it can exacerbate irritation.
- Anusara Yoga Practices LowClinical
If you have an active stomach or duodenal ulcer, certain yoga poses that apply strong pressure to the abdomen or involve deep twists can cause discomfort or worsen the ulcer. Practice with caution.
- Belly Dance Practices LowClinical
Active, symptomatic stomach or duodenal ulcers, especially with bleeding, may be exacerbated by abdominal movements in dance. Medical consultation is advised.
- Eating Too Quickly Habits LowClinical
Rapid eating, especially of large, poorly chewed food portions, can irritate the stomach lining and potentially worsen symptoms in individuals with existing stomach or duodenal ulcers. Chew thoroughly and eat at a relaxed pace.
- Amanita Regalis Supplements MediumPeople reports
Not recommended for individuals with stomach or duodenal ulcers, as it could exacerbate irritation or pain.
- Curcumin Supplements MediumPeople reports
If you have stomach ulcers, consult your doctor before taking curcumin, as it might cause irritation or worsen symptoms in some individuals.
- Feverfew Supplements MediumPeople reports
Could worsen symptoms if you have existing stomach or duodenal ulcers.
- Phenibut Supplements MediumPeople reports
Due to its acidity, Phenibut HCl may irritate stomach or duodenal ulcers, potentially worsening your condition.
- Chondroitin Sulfate Supplements LowPeople reports
People with stomach or duodenal ulcers should use oral chondroitin sulfate cautiously, as it might irritate the digestive lining.
- Integral Yoga Practices LowPeople reports
Avoid poses that involve significant abdominal pressure if you have an active stomach or duodenal ulcer, as they may cause pain or worsen symptoms. Consult your doctor.
- Polygala Tenuifolia Supplements LowPeople reports
If you have stomach ulcers, this supplement could potentially worsen irritation; use with caution or consult a healthcare professional.
- Vitamin B3 Supplements LowPeople reports
Nicotinic acid (niacin) may irritate the stomach lining. Use with caution if you have ulcers or a history of stomach bleeding.
- Citrulline Supplements MediumTheoretical
Due to its malic acid content, Citrulline Malate can contribute to stomach acidity. If you have an active stomach or duodenal ulcer, this form could potentially irritate the ulcer and should be avoided.
- Kapalabhati Pranayama Practices MediumTheoretical
Forceful abdominal contractions in Kapalabhati can irritate stomach or duodenal ulcers, potentially worsening pain or causing complications. Avoid if you have an active ulcer.
- Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse Habits MediumTheoretical
Frequent or high-dose use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can cause stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding due to their effect on the protective lining of the stomach. Report any black stools, severe stomach pain, or vomiting blood to a doctor immediately.
- Papain Supplements MediumTheoretical
If you have an active stomach or duodenal ulcer, papain might irritate the lining. It's best to discuss its use with your doctor.
- Kriya Yoga Practices LowTheoretical
Intense abdominal exercises or locks (bandhas) in Kriya Yoga may exacerbate an active stomach or duodenal ulcer. Avoid these practices until the ulcer has healed and consult your doctor.
- Schisandra Supplements LowTheoretical
Due to its potential to stimulate gastric acid, Schisandra should be avoided if you have stomach ulcers, as it could potentially irritate the condition.
- Tantra Yoga Practices LowTheoretical
Deep abdominal work (e.g., Uddiyana Bandha) can exacerbate symptoms of stomach ulcers due to increased intra-abdominal pressure. Practice with caution or avoid these techniques.
- Yohimbine Supplements LowTheoretical
Due to potential effects on gastric acid, yohimbine could theoretically irritate or worsen existing stomach ulcers.