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Why Most Students Fear Research Writing (and How to Overcome It)

I remember the very first day I decided to start writing my research project. I opened my laptop, pulled up a blank document, and just sat there staring at the blinking cursor. For almost 30 minutes, I couldn’t type a single word. It wasn’t because I didn’t know English. It wasn’t because I wasn’t smart. It was because of fear. That blinking cursor suddenly became a mirror, reflecting all my doubts: “What if my supervisor rejects my work? What if I can’t finish on time? What if I’m not good enough?” If you’ve ever felt this way, trust me, you’re not alone. Most students fear research writing — not because it’s impossible, but because it feels like a giant mountain you have to climb without a clear path. Why the Fear Happens Here’s the truth: research writing looks intimidating when you don’t understand the process. Think about it: You’re often given a topic you didn’t even choose yourself. Supervisors sometimes give vague, confusing instructions. You search onlin...
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Does Skipping Meals Cause Ulcers? The Scientific Truth

 

For decades, a common belief has persisted: skipping meals causes stomach ulcers. Many people experience discomfort when they go long periods without eating, leading to the assumption that fasting itself is harmful. But what does scientific research say? Is this widely held notion a fact or a myth? Let’s examine the evidence and draw a definitive conclusion.

The True Causes of Stomach Ulcers

A peptic ulcer is an open sore that develops on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper small intestine. According to research, the two primary causes of ulcers are:

  1. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection – A 2016 study published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that H. pylori is responsible for approximately 90% of duodenal ulcers and 70-90% of gastric ulcers 1. This bacterium weakens the protective mucosal layer, allowing gastric acid to damage the stomach lining.

  2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Long-term use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin can lead to ulcer formation by inhibiting prostaglandins, which help protect the stomach lining. A systematic review published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics confirms this mechanism 2.

Does Skipping Meals Contribute to Ulcers?

While fasting or skipping meals does not directly cause ulcers, it can lead to physiological changes that increase the risk of gastric discomfort and irritation. Here’s what the research indicates:

  • Increased Gastric Acid Secretion: A study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that prolonged fasting leads to increased gastric acid output, which can irritate the stomach lining and exacerbate pre-existing conditions 3.
  • Oxidative Stress in the Stomach Lining: Research published in Gut and Liver suggests that extended fasting intervals may cause oxidative stress, increasing the risk of gastric mucosal inflammation 4.
  • Delayed Gastric Emptying and Gut Motility Issues: A study in Neurogastroenterology & Motility demonstrated that irregular eating patterns may disrupt gut motility, leading to discomfort and indigestion 5.

Why Does Your Stomach Hurt When You Skip Meals?

Even if skipping meals does not cause ulcers, it can trigger ulcer-like pain due to the following reasons:

  • The stomach continues producing acid even in the absence of food.
  • Without food to buffer the acid, irritation of the stomach lining can occur.
  • This can mimic symptoms of an ulcer, such as burning pain in the upper abdomen.

Risk Factors That Exacerbate Ulcer Formation

While fasting alone does not cause ulcers, the following factors increase susceptibility: ✅ H. pylori infection (major cause) ✅ Frequent NSAID use (especially without food) ✅ Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption ✅ High-stress levels (exacerbates symptoms but does not directly cause ulcers) ✅ Poor diet lacking essential stomach-protective nutrients

Final Verdict: Myth or Fact?

Scientific evidence debunks the myth that skipping meals directly causes ulcers. Instead, ulcers are primarily driven by H. pylori infection and NSAID overuse. However, skipping meals can increase acid secretion, which may worsen symptoms in individuals with an already compromised gastric lining.

How to Maintain a Healthy Stomach

✔️ Eat regular, balanced meals to prevent acid buildup. ✔️ Get tested for H. pylori if you experience persistent stomach discomfort. ✔️ Avoid excessive NSAID use or take them with food. ✔️ Reduce alcohol intake and quit smoking to protect your stomach lining. ✔️ Consume probiotic-rich foods to support gut health.

The Bottom Line

Skipping meals does not create ulcers but can lead to acid-related discomfort. If you’ve been experiencing frequent stomach pain, consider checking for H. pylori and reviewing your NSAID intake.


References: [1] The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2016 - PubMed ID: 27843305 [2] Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2020 - PubMed ID: 32610152 [3] World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2014 - PubMed ID: 24891990 [4] Gut and Liver, 2018 - PubMed ID: 29961378 [5] Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 2019 - PubMed ID: 31552882


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