Can People with Gastric Ulcers Eat Chinese Chives?

For individuals with gastric ulcers, eating Chinese chives typically does not cause any direct harm. However, due to their high dietary fiber content, Chinese chives may be somewhat difficult to digest, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. If a person is experiencing noticeable discomfort or irritation from their ulcer, consuming fibrous vegetables like Chinese chives might temporarily worsen symptoms. That said, there's no absolute restriction on eating them, as Chinese chives themselves do not directly worsen gastric ulcers.

Gastric ulcers occur when the protective lining of the stomach—known as the mucosa—is damaged due to various pathological factors. When this damage extends beyond the mucosa into the submucosal layer, it is clinically diagnosed as a gastric ulcer. According to modern medical understanding, two primary causes are responsible for the development of gastric ulcers:

1. Helicobacter pylori Infection

Recent data indicates that the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in China is quite high, affecting nearly 55% of the population. For many individuals, H. pylori is a key contributor to the formation of gastric ulcers. Therefore, it's crucial for anyone diagnosed with a gastric ulcer to undergo testing for this bacterial infection. If detected, targeted antibiotic therapy is usually recommended to eliminate the bacteria and promote healing.

2. Excessive Gastric Acid Secretion

Another major factor in ulcer development is the overproduction of stomach acid. Lifestyle habits such as chronic stress, irregular sleep patterns, excessive caffeine intake, and consumption of spicy or acidic foods can all stimulate increased acid secretion. In some cases, medical conditions like gastrinoma can also lead to persistently elevated acid levels. Prolonged exposure to high acid levels weakens the stomach lining and increases the risk of mucosal injury, which can progress to ulceration if left unmanaged.

In summary, while Chinese chives are not harmful to people with gastric ulcers, they should be consumed mindfully based on individual tolerance. Managing the underlying causes of ulcers—such as H. pylori infection and acid imbalance—is essential for long-term recovery and prevention of recurrence.