Stomach ulcers, also known as a gastric ulcer or pelvic ulcer, is a lesion that forms on the lining of the stomach.

Doctors used to believe that a stressful lifestyle and poor diet caused ulcers. Later, it was discovered that an imbalance between the digestive fluids (hydrochloric acid and pepsin) caused ulcers. Today, research shows that most ulcers develop as a result of infection with a spiral-shaped bacterium found in the stomach called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Bacteria can also adhere to stomach cells, further weakening the stomach’s defensive mechanisms. For reasons that are not fully understood, H. pylori can also stimulate stomach acid production and cause tissue damage and inflammation, which can ultimately lead to an ulcer.

A stomach ulcer causes burning sensations in the abdomen behind the breastbone that can be especially painful when the stomach is empty. Other symptoms include belching, nausea, fatigue, heartburn, vomiting, chest pain, bleeding, and loss of appetite and weight.

Antacids and antibiotics are used to treat such an infection, but today the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics is increasing. Alcohol, cigarettes, spicy foods, tea and coffee are some of the gastric irritants that should be avoided as they can potentially aggravate ulcer conditions. Eating several small meals throughout the day instead of eating three large meals can be helpful, as this results in less stomach acid production at each meal. A diet high in fiber, low in carbohydrates, and vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli promote healing of ulcers. Also, drinking plenty of water can alleviate ulcer problems.

Many people believe that taking 1 tablespoon of active Manuka honey with 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder can clear up stomach ulcers.