Living with an ulcer can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your diet. Certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of an ulcer, leading to discomfort and pain. For Nigerians, whose diet often includes spicy and rich dishes, it' s essential to be aware of the foods that should be avoided to prevent flare- ups. Here are five foods you should avoid if you have an ulcer:

Nigerian cuisine is renowned for its spicy flavors, with dishes like pepper soup, jollof rice, and suya often containing generous amounts of chili peppers. However, these spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production, worsening ulcer symptoms. It' s advisable for ulcer patients to reduce or eliminate the consumption of highly spiced foods.

Foods that are high in fat, such as akara (bean cakes), puff- puff, and deep- fried plantains (dodo), can slow down digestion and increase acid production in the stomach. This can exacerbate ulcer pain and discomfort. Ulcer patients should opt for grilled, baked, or boiled alternatives to these fried favorites.

While fruits are generally healthy, certain citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and limes can be problematic for those with ulcers. The high acidity of these fruits can irritate the stomach lining. Instead, ulcer patients should consider less acidic fruits such as bananas or papayas, which are easier on the stomach.