How to Treat a Stomach Ulcer in Children Holistically

Stomach ulcers in children are most commonly caused by infections, and may result as a side effect of certain medications. In the case of an infection, it is probably best to leave the treatment up to a doctor who can prescribe antibiotics and monitor the child to be sure the infection doesn't worsen. For ulcers caused by medications, and other ulcers not related to infection, changes in diet and eating habits can help to relieve discomfort and facilitate healing.

Instructions

• 1

  Get rid of any foods that are high in sugar or salt that your child might favor as a snack. Throw away the offensive foods, so even if your child is tempted to eat these foods, they will not be available. Diets high in sugar and salt have been shown to aggravate ulcers and increase the acidity in the stomach.

• 2

  Stock up on foods that are high in fiber and low in salt and sugar. Find snacks that are only mildly sweetened with natural sugars. Avoid all artificial sweeteners. Buy a wide variety of natural and nutritious foods. Bring your child along to help pick out food items to try and get him excited about new healthy eating. A healthy diet leads to healthy digestion.

• 3

  Serve your child several small meals at regular intervals. This will lower the strength of the acid produced in her stomach. Make frequent snacks of bananas and banana chips, as bananas have a protective effect on the stomach lining.

• 4

  Remove all sources of caffeine from your child's diet, as well as carbonated beverages and acidic juices. Large quantities of milk products can inhibit the healing process of an ulcer, so keep dairy servings to a minimum.

• 5

  Season food with a salt-free spice blend. Use mild spices, as the hot variety can cause pain for those suffering with an ulcer. Encourage your child to eat one serving of cabbage a day; cabbage contains an amino acid that helps heal ulcers.

• 6

  Sit down and relax with your child for at least an hour every night. Read a story, share a warm cup of chamomile tea and talk to him. Ulcers can be caused by stress; listening to your child and helping him work through his problems can help alleviate stress.