Stomach cramps from eating cabbage is most likely the result of gas pains. Gas pains can occur after eating any food, but some cause gas more readily than others. The University of Michigan Health System identifies cabbage as major gas producing food to avoid if you have digestive difficulties. Gas pains generally feel like cramping but are the result of trapped gas throughout your digestive system. Cramping may also be the result of increased fiber intake, irritable bowel syndrome or food poisoning. Talk with your doctor to receive a clinical diagnosis.
Gas Pain
Most people pass gas around 10 times daily and may or may not feel gas pains, according to MayoClinic.com. Gas pains typically come on suddenly and may feel sharp and jabbing in your abdomen. You may also develop a knotted feeling or swelling and tightness in your stomach caused by bloating. Gas pains may diminish when you pass gas. The cramping sensation is commonly intense and may be frightening if you're not used to them. If you develop blood in your stools, experience significant weight loss, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever or chest pain, call your doctor.
Fiber Intake
Cabbage is high in fiber, which could cause stomach cramping within a few hours after eating cabbage. Everyone needs a different amount of fiber to maintain regularity, although MedlinePlus states that the average adult should eat between 20 and 35 g of fiber daily. If you don't eat a significant amount of fiber daily and consume cabbage, you can develop gas, bloating and abdominal pain. Stomach cramping from eating an excessive amount of fiber will subside within a day or two and should not continue.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome would cause minor to severe abdominal cramping after eating cabbage. Not everyone with IBS will develop stomach cramps from cabbage, but if you've been diagnosed with this digestive condition, you may need to avoid eating cabbage. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that certain fruits and vegetables, especially gas-forming foods, can trigger IBS symptoms. IBS is common condition that results in chronic digestive complications after eating, such as diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, cramping, gas and bloating.
Food Poisoning Consideration
If stomach cramps continue to intensify and you develop vomiting, diarrhea, a fever and body chills, you may have food poisoning. Most food poisoning symptoms develop within 4 to 36 hours after consuming the food that's contaminated. Food poisoning from cabbage is treated with a bland food diet, increased liquids and rest.
