For years, spicy foods and stress were blamed for causing painful peptic ulcers. While years of scientific research have thoroughly debunked this widely accepted belief as a myth, it continues to be an accepted belief even today.

Here’s a peek into the scientific research and clinical experience of gastroenterologists on what exactly causes peptic ulcers and if there is any link with spice.

The real culprits as per research and experts are often a bacterial infection known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

A gutsy discovery that brought truth to light

This misconception was overturned thanks to the dedicated, and slightly unorthodox, work of Australian physicians Dr. Barry Marshall and Dr. Robin Warren.  Frustrated by the lack of effective ulcer treatments, they theorized that a bacterium was to blame, not stress or diet.

To prove their hypothesis, Dr. Marshall took the drastic step of self-experimentation.  He deliberately infected himself with H. pylori, subsequently developing the symptoms of an ulcer. This, along with Warren’s ongoing research, provided compelling evidence for the bacterial link.  Their groundbreaking discovery earned them the prestigious Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2005.

What really causes ulcers

H. pylori infection: This common bacterium lives in the stomach and can erode the protective lining, leading to inflammation and ulcers.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) overuse: Long-term use of these common painkillers disrupts the stomach’s natural defenses, making it vulnerable to damage.

Can spicy food make things worse?

Spicy food itself doesn’t cause ulcers. However, if you already have an ulcer, spicy dishes might irritate it and exacerbate your symptoms.

Treatment options

Thanks to Marshall and Warren, peptic ulcer treatment is now very effective. Doctors usually prescribe a combination of:

Antibiotics: To eradicate the H. pylori infection
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): To reduce stomach acid and promote healing
Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking aids in recovery.

The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) stresses that spicy foods do not cause peptic ulcers. However, it states that certain foods may irritate an already existing ulcer.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), Helicobacter pylori infection and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) stand out as the primary culprits behind peptic ulcers. Furthermore, the NIDDK emphasizes that current research hasn’t identified any significant role of diet and nutrition in either causing, preventing, or treating peptic ulcers.

The bottom line

If you suffer from frequent heartburn or stomach pain, don’t automatically blame your love of spice. Consult your doctor to determine the true cause and get on the path to relief

References:

1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)
2. The Nobel Prize – Barry J. Marshall and J. Robin Warren.