A new diet for gastric ulcer

Abstract

From the dietetic standpoint the two main indications for the treatment of gastric ulcer are:

1. To protect the ulcer from mechanical and chemical injury, and

2. To maintain the nutrition of the patient at a level which will favor the healing of the ulcer.

In the author's opinion, none of the diets hitherto employed in the treatment of gastric ulcer fulfills these indications: in none of them do the therapeutic properties of food appear to have received adequate consideration. In general, the frequent administration of small or moderate quantities of milk constitutes the basis of diets for gastric ulcer. Even admitting the economic quality of the secretion called forth by milk, its hourly or two-hourly administration keeps the secretory glands of the stomach in a state of constant activity. Recognizing this some authors advise the neutralization of the gastric contents with magnesia or soda midway between the feedings. Since the majority of the symptoms of gastric ulcer, at least in the earlier stages, and possibly considerable injury, are referrable to hyperacidity, such a diet lacks physiological support. In addition to excessive secretion, the motor activity of the stomach is abnormally increased.

In the diet which I propose the objections referred to have been eliminated. Moreover, I believe that the maximum protection of the ulcer obtainable when food is given by mouth has been achieved. As in some other diets, complete rest is given the stomach for 3 to 5 days through the use of glucose enemata—300 C.C. of a 7 per cent. to 12 per cent. solution by the Murphy-drip method, three or four times a day. The quantity of water is sufficient to prevent thirst. Protein and fat are not added to the enemata because of the doubt of their absorption.