Advertisement

ADVICE

Fact or fiction: Spicy foods cause stomach ulcers

We all used to believe this. But now we know: no food will cause an ulcer.

Ulcers are not caused by stress, either, although if you are stressed you may secrete more stomach acid, which can aggravate an ulcer.

The main cause of stomach ulcers is actually a bacteria called Heliobactor pylori. Excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or over-production of stomach acid (from other health problems) can also cause ulcers in some instances.

The bottom line: Myth

If you like spicy food, enjoy, and rest easy that it's not going to cause a nasty ulcer some day.  


Date modified: 3 April 2017
First published: Apr 2007

Advertisement

Shopping list saved to go to meal plans