Many people believe that spicy food is a culprit behind stomach ulcers. Health experts say this is not accurate.
According to MU Health Care, spicy food has been blamed for causing stomach ulcers. Those suffering from stomach pain are often advised to limit their intake of spicy foods. However, in the 1980s, this theory was debunked, similar to the belief that stress causes stomach ulcers.
Dr. Matthew Bechtold, a gastroenterologist at MU Health Care, states that the primary causes of stomach ulcers are a bacterium named Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Spicy Food and Stomach Ulcers
Spicy food can irritate existing stomach ulcers and worsen the condition. (Image: quizly.com).
The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) also emphasizes that spicy food does not cause stomach ulcers. However, they note that certain types of food may irritate pre-existing ulcers, according to Medical News Today.
Although the misconception about the causes of stomach ulcers was debunked over 30 years ago, Dr. Bechtold mentions that many patients today still do not realize that spicy food is not harmful.
He says: “They tend to blame spicy food for their problems.”
A study on capsaicin—the component that gives chili peppers their heat—even suggests that it may be beneficial for the stomach. Dr. Bechtold states: “Capsaicin actually stimulates the stomach to produce protective mechanisms against ulcers.”
He also adds that there is no evidence that spicy food harms existing ulcers. However, if spicy food causes discomfort in your abdomen, it is advisable to reduce the spice level in your diet.
Causes of Stomach Ulcers
The H. pylori bacterium spreads through contaminated food and water or poor hygiene conditions. It can cause stomach ulcers by developing in the stomach lining, leading to inflammation and making the stomach and intestinal lining more vulnerable to stomach acid.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can lead to stomach ulcers include commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. They can irritate the stomach lining and interfere with the chemicals that help regulate the protective layer.
NSAID-induced stomach ulcers can be prevented by reducing or stopping the use of these medications. Doctors may also prescribe a daily oral medication, such as Prilosec, Pepcid, or Cytotec.
Dr. Bechtold advises: “If eating a certain food, whether spicy or not, causes indigestion, you should avoid that food.”
Individuals experiencing symptoms such as severe stomach pain, fever, bloody stools, nausea, and vomiting should seek evaluation for stomach ulcers.
