Best Fruits to Eat When Recovering from a Peptic Ulcer

During the acute phase of a peptic ulcer, it is generally not recommended to consume fruits. This stage is often marked by intense upper abdominal pain and, in more severe cases, symptoms such as vomiting material that resembles coffee grounds or passing black stools. At this point, the digestive system needs to be treated gently—opting for a diet rich in carbohydrates can help reduce the workload on the stomach and minimize gastric acid production.

Once the ulcer begins to heal and transitions into the healing or scar phase, fruits can gradually be reintroduced into the diet. However, it's important to avoid eating fruit on an empty stomach. Without other food to buffer gastric acid, fruit consumption may stimulate additional acid secretion, which could delay healing.

It's best to eat fruits 1–2 hours after a meal to allow the stomach to process food properly before introducing lighter, acidic foods like fruits. Also, overly sour or sweet fruits should be avoided, as they may irritate the stomach lining and interfere with recovery.

Some gentle, less acidic fruits that are typically well-tolerated during the healing phase include bananas, apples (especially cooked or baked), pears, and melons. These fruits provide essential vitamins and fiber without causing significant discomfort.

Selecting the right type of fruit and timing your intake correctly plays a key role in supporting digestion and promoting ulcer recovery. Always consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to tailor dietary choices based on individual health conditions and progress.