A diet for stomach pain will depend largely on the cause of the pain. Common reasons you may develop stomach pain include food allergies, food intolerances, ulcers, food poisoning and gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease. If you don't know the cause of the pain, make an appointment with your doctor and implement a bland food diet until you can be seen. Eating foods that are bland, that contain beneficial nutrients and that help maintain regularity may help temporarily alleviate the pain. Do not make any changes to your diet without first talking with your doctor.
Eliminate Possible Problem Foods
If you suspect that you're allergic or intolerant to certain foods, avoid eating them and see if the pain goes away. The most common foods that cause an allergic reaction include milk, soy, eggs, nuts, peanuts, fish, wheat, tomatoes, pineapples and strawberries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Food intolerance is not the same condition as a food allergy. Food intolerance occurs when your body experiences a chemical reaction or cannot digest certain foods. Common intolerances include foods containing sugars and gluten, according to the American College of Gastroenterology.
Eliminate Irritants
Various foods and beverages may irritate the lining of your stomach, which could increase your stomach pain. Common food substances you should eliminate from your diet include caffeine, fat, alcohol and highly processed foods. Stay away from spicy foods, greasy foods and foods that contain a lot of fiber. While dairy products may help coat the stomach for ulcers, milk products may cause greater pain. Do not eat large meals, but instead eat small, more frequent meals, according to Virginia Tech's Schiffert Health Center.
Bland Foods
Eat foods that are bland, easy to digest and provide regular bowel movements. The most common bland foods recommended by FamilyDoctor.org include bananas, rice, toast and applesauce. Yogurt is another bland food that may help provide overall gastrointestinal health. Eat yogurt that is low in fat and is unsweetened. Yogurt that is high in fat or sweetened may prolong your symptoms. If your stomach pain decreases, you may be able to include skinless baked chicken, potatoes, carrots and crackers to your diet.
Liquids
Any digestive complications could lead to diarrhea, resulting in dehydration. Dehydration is a serious medical condition. In order to avoid becoming dehydrated, increase clear liquids in your diet. Drink water, sports beverages, herbal teas, chicken broth and clear sodas.
