Atrophic gastritis is a chronic condition where the stomach lining gradually thins and its protective function declines. A common cause is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection. If left untreated, the condition can lead to long-term damage to stomach cells.

Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, a specialist in Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7, states that alongside medication, a proper diet helps soothe the mucous membrane and reduce inflammation. The doctor advises patients to limit the four food groups below.

Acidic foods

To prevent further damage to the weakened mucous membrane, patients should limit oranges, lemons, grapefruits, tomatoes, pickled vegetables, vinegar, and carbonated drinks. Citric acid and ascorbic acid in these foods stimulate the stomach lining to secrete more gastric acid, increasing pain and burning sensations. High acid content can easily cause gastroesophageal reflux, worsening atrophic gastritis symptoms.

Spicy and fried foods

Fried and oily dishes, along with spicy seasonings like chili and pepper, cause indigestion and increase pressure on the stomach. Spicy components stimulate the stomach to produce more gastric acid, which can spread inflammation and intensify pain and discomfort. Saturated fats from animal fat slow down digestion, causing food to remain longer, further damaging the inflamed lining and hindering recovery.

Individuals with stomach conditions should not eat spicy foods to avoid pain, burning, or gastritis. Photo: Quoc An.

Caffeine and alcohol-containing beverages

Alcohol, beer, coffee, strong tea, and energy drinks, which contain high levels of caffeine and ethanol, can thin the protective mucous layer of the stomach lining and stimulate increased acid secretion. Consequently, the stomach lining becomes more sensitive, increasing the risk of inflammation, ulcers, and reflux. These beverages also disrupt gastric motility, reducing digestive efficiency and impacting the healing process of damaged tissue.

Processed and canned foods

Fast food, canned goods, sweets, and soft drinks often contain numerous preservatives, refined sugar, salt, flavorings, and other additives. These ingredients can irritate the stomach lining and disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome. White sugar, salt, and preservatives also stimulate increased gastric acid secretion, slowing down the recovery process and prolonging inflammation.

To recover from atrophic gastritis, patients should prioritize steamed, boiled, or stewed dishes; eat soft, easily digestible foods; and divide their intake into 4-5 small meals daily. It is important to eat on time, chew thoroughly, and avoid eating too much or becoming too hungry. Adequate sleep, light exercise, and a healthy lifestyle support digestion and mucous membrane recovery.

If unusual symptoms appear, patients should consult a gastroenterology specialist for timely diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the case, doctors may perform a gastroscopy and biopsy to accurately determine the cause and extent of the damage.

Quoc An