How Ulcers Develop
When we eat food that’s tasty but unhealthy, the stomach is often the first to suffer. Among stomach issues, ulcers are one of the most common. Many people rely on quick painkillers to relieve the discomfort, but these only offer temporary relief and can actually worsen ulcers over time.
Stress, anxiety, and irregular eating habits can cause the stomach to produce excess acid, leading to ulcers. The primary culprit behind most ulcers is a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) — which spreads through food, water, or even air. Ulcers usually form in the stomach lining or the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). These are known as peptic ulcers.
Normally, the stomach’s inner walls protect against acids, but when too much acid is produced, these protective layers break down – resulting in painful sores or ulcers. Doctors use endoscopy to diagnose ulcers, detect H. pylori, and determine the severity. In serious cases, ulcers may cause blockage, bleeding, or perforation, requiring medical or even surgical treatment.
With proper dietary control and healthy habits, ulcers can heal completely within two weeks. Avoiding spicy, sour, oily, and acidic foods can prevent recurrence and promote healing.
Healing Recipes for Ulcer Relief
1. Mustard-Coconut Curd Chutney
Ingredients:
Mustard seeds – 1 tbsp (10 g)
Grated coconut – ½ cup (100 g)
Curd (yogurt) – 1 cup (100 ml)
Dry ginger powder – a pinch
Small onions – 2
Salt – a pinch
Method:
Chop the onions finely and sauté lightly. Add grated coconut, mustard seeds, and ginger powder, then grind into a smooth paste. Mix the paste with whisked curd and salt. You can eat this chutney plain or with idli or chapati.
2. Vegetable Aviyal
Ingredients:
Finely chopped carrots, chayote (chow-chow), bottle gourd, potatoes, onions – 1 cup total
Curd – ½ cup (50 ml)
Sugar – 1 tsp (5 g)
Grated coconut – ¼ cup (25 g)
Green gram dal – 2 tbsp (boiled)
Salt – to taste
Coconut oil – 1 tsp (5 ml)
Method:
Boil all the vegetables (except onions) with a little sugar and water until soft. Grind the coconut into a paste. Heat coconut oil in a pan, add onions, and sauté. Then add the cooked vegetables and bring to a boil. Add the coconut paste, salt, and dal. Finally, mix in curd and stir well. Serve with rice or as a side dish for tiffin items.
Why These Recipes Work
Both dishes include curd and coconut, which promote healthy gut bacteria and aid digestion. Coconut oil acts as a natural healer for ulcers and reduces acidity. Mustard provides protein, calcium, and phosphorus, supporting overall stomach health. Together, these foods help soothe irritation, reduce acid levels, and speed up ulcer healing naturally.
