Is It Okay to Consume Millet Porridge for Gastritis?

Gastritis is mainly caused by external stimuli that lead to symptoms such as edema and congestion of the gastric mucosa. It is a pathological change that manifests as abdominal pain, a burning sensation in the abdomen, and so on. Gastric diseases are three parts treatment and seven parts maintenance, meaning that in addition to necessary treatment, attention should also be paid to daily care of the stomach to avoid further irritation and worsening of the condition. Among them, dietary care is a crucial aspect. So, can gastritis patients eat millet porridge? Let's take a look at the introduction. Gastritis patients can drink an appropriate amount of millet porridge, which has always been known as the "golden porridge". Millet is an ideal tonic for the elderly, the infirm, patients, and postpartum women. Since millet does not require refining, it preserves many vitamins and minerals. It contains higher levels of protein, fat, calcium, and other nutrients than rice. Millet also contains carotenoids, which are not found in general grains. Every 100 grams of millet contains 0.12 milligrams of carotenoids, and the content of vitamin B1 is the highest among all grains. The iron content in the same weight of millet is twice that of rice. Millet is not only nutritionally comprehensive and rich, but also has the effect of nourishing the stomach.

1. Replenishing Water: Patients often experience symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea during the acute phase. Due to significant water loss, it is important to replenish large amounts of fluids in the diet, such as fresh fruit juices, lotus root starch, rice soup, egg soup, and other liquid foods. Patients should also drink plenty of water to alleviate dehydration and accelerate the excretion of toxins.

2. Low-residue Semiliquid Foods: After the condition improves, patients can transition to low-residue semiliquid foods and gradually progress to soft meals with few residues. The diet should be non-irritating and low in fiber, such as rice porridge, noodle soup, and an appropriate amount of dry steamed buns.

3. Eating in Small Portions and Multiple Times: To reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, patients should eat in small portions and multiple times, with 5-6 meals per day being suitable.

4. Avoiding Hard Foods: Patients with chronic gastritis should eliminate triggering factors. This includes thoroughly treating chronic gastritis, avoiding spicy and hard foods and medications that irritate the stomach, and treating chronic infections in the mouth and throat. Therefore, patients with gastritis should choose easily digestible and non-irritating foods, such as semiliquid or low-residue meals. They should eat small meals frequently and avoid mechanically or chemically irritating foods and cold foods. It is advisable to provide foods rich in protein and various vitamins, such as fresh tender leafy vegetables. For those with excessive stomach acid, they should avoid concentrated soups like strong chicken soup, acidic foods, and large amounts of protein to prevent increased gastric acid secretion. It is recommended to eat soy milk, mashed vegetables, porridge, etc.