Inflammation of the stomach lining is the hallmark of gastritis, a disorder that results in pain, discomfort, and digestive problems.
Although medication may be necessary in some cases, dietary changes play a key role in managing symptoms and promoting healing.
Following the best diet for gastritis ensures you avoid irritating your stomach lining. This blog will guide you on the foods you should include in your diet and those you should avoid to soothe or heal gastritis.
What Foods Should You Incorporate in a Diet for Gastritis?
A well-planned diet for gastritis patients includes foods that are rich in nutrients and gentle on the stomach to aid recovery. Here are some food options to consider:
- Low-Acidity Fruits:
Choose non-citrus fruits like bananas, melons, and apples (without skin). These fruits are easy to digest and unlikely to aggravate the stomach lining.
- Cooked Vegetables:
Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes are excellent choices for gastritis patients. You can boil or steam them to make them more palatable.
- Lean Proteins:
Incorporate lean meats like fish, turkey, and chicken. Plant-based proteins like chickpeas, lentils, and tofu are also beneficial for gastritis patients.
- Whole Grains:
Whole-grain bread, brown rice, and oatmeal are fibre-rich options that support digestion without irritating the stomach.
- Probiotic Foods:
Fermented foods like sauerkraut and kefir, and yoghurt with live cultures can help in balancing gut bacteria, potentially reducing the intensity of gastritis symptoms.
- Herbal Teas:
Ginger and chamomile teas are soothing and can reduce inflammation, providing relief from gastritis discomfort.
What Are the Foods to Avoid for Gastritis?
While managing gastritis, avoiding certain foods is as crucial as choosing the right ones. Below are some foods that can irritate the stomach lining and worsen the symptoms.
- Spicy Foods:
Spicy seasonings, hot sauces, and chilli peppers can trigger discomfort and irritation in the stomach lining.
- Acidic Foods:
Citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruits, tomatoes, and oranges can increase stomach acidity.
- Fried and Fatty Foods:
Foods like chips, burgers, and fries are hard to digest and can exacerbate gastritis.
- Carbonated and Caffeinated Drinks:
You should avoid soda, energy drinks, and coffee, as they can irritate the stomach lining.
- Alcohol:
Alcohol is a significant irritant to the stomach lining and can aggravate gastritis.
- Processed Foods:
Avoid foods with preservatives, high salt content, and artificial additives, including instant meals and packaged snacks.
Conclusion
The best diet for gastritis focuses on nourishing and soothing the stomach while avoiding irritants. To improve your condition, incorporate gentle and nutrient-rich foods and avoid acidic, processed, and spicy foods. Always consult with a healthcare practitioner or dietitian for personalised advice to ensure optimal results while managing gastritis effectively. Some health insurance plans can provide access to appropriate healthcare that can help manage conditions like gastritis, especially if chronic.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.