If you've recently changed your diet and you notice that you have stomach pain, consult your doctor for an evaluation. Any drastic changes in your diet need to be discussed with your doctor to prevent complications or side effects. The most probable reason for stomach pain after modifying your diet is increased gas in your digestive system. Trapped gas can lead to pain, bloating and flatulence.
Gas Pains
Gas formation is a normal part of the digestive process. The average person passes gas about 14 times daily, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. As digestive enzymes break down proteins, sugars and carbohydrates in your small intestines, vapors such as carbon dioxide and oxygen are created. Most of the gas is expelled from the body through belching or passing gas, but if excess gas gets trapped, it can lead to sharp, jabbing pains that come and go. These pains are typically relieved after having a bowel movement or passing gas.
Cause
The main reason you may develop gas pains after changing your diet is because of an influx of new foods that may be more difficult to digest. MayoClinic.com states that certain foods, such as apples, cauliflower, broccoli, beans and other high-fiber foods, commonly cause gas. Some fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain carbohydrates that remain undigested, which can lead to increased gas. High-fiber foods can trigger bloating, gas and cramping because the flora in your digestive system is not accustomed to the increased amount of fiber.
Food Intolerance
If you've introduced new foods into your diet, your digestive system may not be able to effectively digest certain components of the food. Food intolerances occur when your digestive system lacks the proper enzymes or when food substances trigger chemical reactions in the body. For example, some people cannot tolerate the protein gluten, found in wheat, barely and rye, which can lead to stomach pain. You may be intolerant to monosodium glutamate, or MSG, which is commonly used in Chinese dishes, canned vegetables and canned soups, according to the American College of Gastroenterology.
Food Additives
Certain food additives may cause adverse reactions. If you're eating certain diet foods that that contain artificial sweeteners or flavors, you may have an allergy to one or more of the chemicals. Common additives that may cause stomach pain include sulfites, aspartame, parabens and tartrazine, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
