Stomach pain can be caused by stress, gas, medications and even certain bodily positions. According to MedicineNet, severe stomach pains could also be indicative of a more serious matter, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, inflammation, distention or loss of blood supply. Stomach pain should be alleviated whenever possible by avoiding certain foods.
For Pain Associated with Bloating and Gas
According to the Mayo Clinic, when gas builds up in the stomach, it can lead to bloating that is commonly accompanied by stomach pain. This pain may be reduced with belching, flatulence or a bowel movement. Avoiding certain foods may also lessen the discomfort. The Mayo Clinic suggests steering clear of baked beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carbonated drinks, cauliflower, chewing gum, apples, peaches, pears, hard candy and lettuce. These foods are on the clinic's list of "common culprits" for producing gas. The Mayo Clinic suggests avoiding fatty foods as well.
For Pain Associated with Diarrhea
Medline Plus recommends avoiding caffeinated beverages entirely and avoiding milk in moderate and severe cases of stomach pain accompanied by diarrhea. Medline Plus also recommends avoiding over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications unless told to take them by a doctor, as these may interfere with the body's clearance of whatever is causing the diarrhea in the first place.
For Pain With Nausea or Vomiting
For stomach pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting, especially when caused by cancer treatment, the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center recommends avoiding spicy foods; fatty, greasy or fried foods; very sweet and sugary foods; large meals; foods with strong smells; and very hot or very cold drinks; and any drinks containing caffeine or milk. The center also frowns on eating or drinking quickly, drinking beverages with meals, and lying down immediately after a meal.
