Nutrition Goals in Gastritis The main aims of dietary management are to: Reduce stomach acid irritation Protect and allow healing of the stomach lining Prevent symptom flare-ups Maintain adequate nutrition Best Foods for Gastritis 1. Easy-to-Digest Carbohydrates These foods are gentle on the stomach and provide energy: Rice (white or soft brown) Oatmeal Boiled or baked potatoes Soft bread (whole wheat if tolerated) Plain crackers 2. Lean Protein Sources Protein supports healing but should be low in fat: Boiled or grilled fish Skinless chicken Eggs (boiled or lightly scrambled) Beans and lentils (well-cooked and in small portions) 3. Fruits That Are Gentle on the Stomach Choose non-acidic fruits: Bananas Pawpaw (papaya) Watermelon Apples (preferably stewed or soft) 4. Vegetables (Cooked Preferred) Cooking reduces irritation: Carrots Cabbage Pumpkin Green leafy vegetables (well-cooked) Okro (helps coat the stomach lining) 5. Healthy Fats (In Small Amounts) Too much fat delays stomach emptying: Small amounts of vegetable oil Avocado (if tolerated) Foods to Avoid or Limit These foods increase acid production or irritate the stomach lining: Spicy foods (pepper, hot sauces) Fried and fatty foods Alcohol Coffee and strong tea Carbonated drinks Citrus fruits (orange, lemon, pineapple) Tomatoes and tomato sauces Chocolate Processed and highly seasoned foods Meal Timing & Eating Habits How you eat is just as important as what you eat: Eat small, frequent meals instead of large portions Avoid skipping meals Chew food slowly and thoroughly Avoid lying down immediately after eating (wait at least 2–3 hours) Eat dinner early and light Lifestyle Tips That Support Nutrition Therapy Manage stress, as it worsens gastritis symptoms Avoid smoking Stay hydrated with water (not during heavy meals) Take medications as prescribed, especially if gastritis is caused by H. pylori When to Seek Medical Attention Seek medical care if symptoms: Persist despite dietary changes Are accompanied by vomiting, weight loss, or black stools Occur frequently or worsen over time Final Thoughts Gastritis can be managed effectively with the right dietary choices and healthy eating habits. A gentle, balanced diet helps protect the stomach lining, reduces discomfort, and promotes healing. Consistency is key—small changes practiced daily make a big difference. Always consult a dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.

Disclaimer & Credit: All medical articles including ours, are informative and provide population trends not specific to individuals which can be very different. Always seek personalized medical advice from your doctor for individual healthcare decisions.

Posted December 19, 2025