Raw vegetables are full of fiber, vitamins and nutrients that you need for good health. If you are suffering from stomach pain, the fiber in raw vegetables may alleviate your discomfort. On the other hand, suddenly adding raw vegetables to your diet or eating those that are contaminated with certain bacteria may cause stomach pain.
Constipation
If you have stomach pain along with infrequent or hard bowel movements, you may be constipated. Many things can cause constipation, including stress, ignoring the urge to move your bowels, certain medications or eating a diet low in fiber. Adding fiber to your diet in the form of raw vegetables can help with constipation. Suddenly eating a diet high in fiber after not consuming fiber regularly, however, can cause more stomach pain. Try eating raw spinach, carrots or broccoli to boost your fiber intake. Since bowel changes can indicate serious medical conditions, see your doctor if you have persistent stomach pain or constipation.
Food Poisoning
Stomach pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may indicate food poisoning, and certain raw vegetables may be to blame. Bagged lettuce may carry a bacteria called listeria, and any raw vegetable can be contaminated with E. Coli or Salmonella. Washing vegetables well before eating them can help reduce your risk of developing food poisoning. If you are vomiting or have diarrhea, be sure to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. If your symptoms persist, see your doctor.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause abdominal pain. Other symptoms include diarrhea, bloody stools, reduced appetite and weight loss. While eating a healthy diet is important for those with Crohn's disease, eating raw vegetables and other foods high in fiber can make your symptoms worse. Foods that are especially likely to cause problems are raw broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. Avoid raw vegetables and get your fiber from whole grains and cooked vegetables instead. If you have inflammatory bowel disease, talk to your doctor before changing your diet.
IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a collection of symptoms, including stomach pain, abdominal bloating, excess gas, diarrhea and constipation. Although there is no cure for IBS, changing your diet may help relieve your symptoms. Many people with IBS find that eating a diet high in fiber helps to alleviate symptoms. Eat more raw vegetables, especially broccoli and carrots. Add these foods to your diet gradually to avoid making your stomach pain worse while your body gets used to the added fiber.
