You Won’t Get Ulcers From Stress or Spicy Food
Peptic ulcers are painful sores on the lining of the stomach or small intestines. These ulcers are typically caused by a bacterial infection or certain medications that damage the stomach lining. Despite popular misconceptions, ulcers are not caused by stress or spicy food. Stress can cause or worsen digestive issues but won’t lead to ulcers. Similarly, spicy food may upset your stomach and cause pain, but it won’t burn a hole in your stomach.
Both stress and spicy food can aggravate existing ulcers, which may be where the myth originates. The best way to prevent ulcers is to avoid habits that damage the stomach lining, including the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin. Switching to non-NSAID painkillers may reduce your risk of developing ulcers. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco also lowers ulcer risk.
Where Do We Find This Stuff? Here Are Our Sources:
The Healthy – 25 Things You Think Cause Cancer But Don’t
Cancer – Disproven or Controversial Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Med Express – 40 Health Myths You Hear Every Day
CNET – 18 health myths that are outdated and wrong
Self – 4 Myths About Detoxing That Are Totally False
Time Magazine – The Truth About Common Digestive Health Fears