Drinks that are good for ulcers include aloe vera juice, chamomile tea, and non-citrus herbal teas, which help soothe the stomach lining.
Stomach ulcers can cause significant discomfort, but choosing the right drinks may help promote healing and ease symptoms. While water remains the top choice, certain beverages offer additional benefits for ulcer management.
Why Drink Choices Matter for Ulcers
Peptic ulcers develop when stomach acid damages the digestive tract lining. What you drink directly impacts acid production and mucosal protection. The right beverages can:
- Neutralize excess stomach acid
- Provide protective compounds
- Support healing of damaged tissue
- Reduce inflammation
Top Healing Drinks for Ulcers
1. Cabbage Juice
Raw cabbage juice contains glutamine and S-methylmethionine (vitamin U), compounds shown to help repair stomach lining. A 1950s study found ulcer patients drinking fresh cabbage juice healed faster than those receiving standard treatment.
2. Herbal Teas
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties may soothe ulcer pain. It contains bisabolol, which helps protect stomach lining.
Licorice Root Tea
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) stimulates mucus production, creating a protective barrier against stomach acid.
3. Probiotic Drinks
Fermented drinks like kefir and kombucha contain beneficial bacteria that may help combat H. pylori infections. For optimal results, consider using a cold press juicer to make fresh probiotic-rich vegetable juices.
4. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe’s anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce stomach irritation. Choose pure, inner-leaf aloe juice without added sugars or citric acid.
Drinks to Avoid With Ulcers
| Beverage | Why It’s Harmful |
|---|---|
| Coffee (regular & decaf) | Stimulates acid production |
| Alcohol | Irritates stomach lining |
| Citrus juices | High acidity worsens pain |
| Carbonated drinks | May cause bloating and discomfort |
Additional Healing Strategies
Combine ulcer-friendly drinks with other soothing foods. For easy digestion, try blending ingredients with a high-quality blender to create nutrient-rich smoothies.
According to research, polyphenol-rich foods like green tea and berries may help inhibit H. pylori growth while protecting stomach lining.
Preparation Tips
- Drink beverages at room temperature
- Avoid drinking large amounts with meals
- Sip slowly throughout the day
- Monitor personal triggers
While these drinks may help manage symptoms, they don’t replace medical treatment for underlying causes like H. pylori infection or NSAID use.
