Gastritis is due to an inflammation of the mucous of the stomach, which happens as a result of a secretion of gastric acid that is higher than normal. This oversecretion can be caused by different factors, such as a very greasy or spicy meal, certain medicines, stress, or bacteria (Helicobacter pilory ).
Your diet plays an essential role in the treatment of gastritis. It is important to watch the quality and quantity of foods, as well as the number of meals and the time between them. 
The following recommendations will help you manage and prevent this disease:
What you should avoid:
- Irritating foods: coffee, strong spices (pepper, chilli, spicy sauces), citric foods (orange or lime juice, pineapple, strawberries)
- Soft drinks
- Alcoholic beverages, as they stimulate the secretion of gastric acid
- Greasy foods, such as: butter, cream cheese, yellow cheese, sausages, fried foods, junk food, or fast food, because they delay gastric emptying and increase the secretion of acid, causing pain and heartburn
- Milk—even though many people feel relief when drinking it—because it stimulates the production of gastric acid
- Any food that increases your symptoms
- Aspirin, because it is an irritant to the stomach
- Smoking, which is also a risk factor for gastric ulcers and all the associated complications
What you should do:
- Drink enough water, at least 8 glasses each day.
- Eat at least 5 daily meals in moderate amounts. Don’t skip any main meal, because an empty stomach produces a higher secretion of acid and, consequently, pain.
- Increase your consumption of dietary fiber which is found in whole wheat cereals, fruits (avoiding citric ones), vegetables, and legumes.
- Eat your meals at room temperature, because very high temperatures cause irritation.
- Choose boiled, steamed, or grilled foods.
- Include physical activity in your daily routine. Not only will it help you reduce stress, but it also improves digestion.
Following these recommendations, you will be able to improve the symptoms caused by gastritis. However, remember to consult with your physician, because you might need a specific medication in addition to your diet plan.
