Research shows that most ulcers of the stomach and the duodenum develop because of infection with Helicobacter pylori. Bacteria weakens the protective mucous layer of the stomach. This allows acid to seep in and injure the underlying stomach cells.

Historically, the bland diet has been used in peptic ulcer disease (PUD). With the introduction of H2 inhibitors for the treatment of PUD, the use of diet has been questioned. In addition, there is growing evidence that most ulcers are associated with the microorganism called Helicobacter pylori, which is usually treated with bismuth-subsalicylate, tetracycline or ampicillin and metronidaxole.

Gastric irritants include: caffeine, alcohol, aspirin, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking.

GERD is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – It occurs when gastric contents reflux into the esophagus (swallowing tube to the stomach.) The most common symptoms are heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing or the feeling that food is “sticking” in your throat or chest) and chest pain. GERD is a chronic disorder whose management requires lifestyle and dietary changes often combined with drug therapy.

Modifications include: Weight loss if overweight, avoid tight clothing in the abdominal area, meal consistency, maintain upright posture while eating, stop smoking if applicable. Avoid fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol, tomato products, citrus juices, coffee*, spearmint and peppermint.

Elevate the head of the bed 6 inches and avoid eating at least three (3) hours before reclining or going to bed.

Alcohol, citrus fruits, tomato products and mint irritate the already sensitive esophageal mucosa. High fat foods decrease the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and delay gastric (stomach) emptying. Both are ideal situations for reflux of gastric contents. Chocolate also relaxes the LES and delays gastric emptying.

*Controversy exists over the effect of coffee on reflux since caffeine itself has no effect on LES pressure. Some studies have shown that coffee after a meal affects LES pressure. GERD is most likely a result of the meal and not the presence of coffee.

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Start with clear  liquids:  Sodas, Gatorade, Jell-O, Clear Soups (like chicken or beef broth) and Popsicles.

Try small amounts of the above about every 20 minutes rather than a lot at one time. Your stomach will tolerate small amounts. Also try eating (drinking) the liquids at room temperature (not hot or cold) at first. This too will help your stomach tolerate the liquids.

Next, try a few crackers or toast with clear liquids. DO NOT TRY ANY OTHER SOLID FOOD AT THIS TIME.  Try saltines or plain graham crackers or plain, dry toast.

Next, try full liquids. This includes cream soups, ice cream, pudding etc.  You may still have clear liquids, saltine crackers, plain graham crackers and plain dry toast.

Next, try soft foods:  This includes baked or mashed potatoes, pasta, cooked cereals, bananas, etc.

If you tolerate all of the above, you may now, slowly start back on your regular diet.

REMEMBER:  Your stomach is still sensitive – a little at a time.

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Begin with clear liquids for 24-48 hours: Pedialyte, Ginger Ale, 7-Up, Gatorade, frozen Kool-Aid popsicles, Jell-O.

Fever and Tylenol Dosing in Children

Fever is a normal body response to infection and a symptom of an illness, not an illness itself.

GI Disorders

Learn about gastric irritants and disorders such as Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Gout

Head Injuries

Head injury, regardless of type including head surgery, is followed by a group of symptoms that may be regarded as common to all forms of cranial trauma.

Hypertension

Diseases of the heart and blood vessels are the number one cause of death in the United States.

Menopause

In a 1972 episode of All In The Family, the theme was menopause:

Archie: Edith, if you’re gonna have a change in life, you gotta do it right now. I’m gonna give you just 3o seconds!

Edith: Can I finish my soup first?

Unfortunately, this is what many people, both men and women, still think they know about menopause. Menopause is perhaps the least understood stage of life by the public, and arguably the most feared.

Stomach Virus and Flu

Here is an example of a progressive diet that may be followed when you have a “stomach virus” or the flu.