Mouth Ulcers and Nutrition

Mouth Ulcers and Nutrition

Mouth ulcers or commonly referred to as canker sore, tend to be painful, especially during the first few days. They can be identified by painful white or yellowish spots scattered through the mouth. They normally last for a week or two and larger ones may last for over a month. Fever, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes may develop for serious cases.

During attacks, avoid taking any food or beverages that may irritate the sores, such as:

• salty, spicy, and acidic foods
• alcohol and hot beverages

Consume plenty of the following:

• lean animal products for vitamin B12
• dark green leafy vegetables, wheat germ and legumes for folate
• lean meat, dried fruits, fortified cereals, and other high-iron foods

Other things you can do

Try chewing any over-the-counter antacid tablet, or hold the tablet on the sore and let it dissolve. It will ease pain by neutralising acids that eat into the sore. You can also put a damp tea bag on the sore for the same effect.

Mouth Ulcers and Nutrition