Stomach aches are a common issue that many people face. They can be triggered by a variety of factors, including digestive problems, infections, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, menstruation, stress, anxiety, or even serious medical conditions like intestinal leaks.
When experiencing a stomach ache, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you eat and drink. Certain foods and beverages can aggravate the stomach and delay recovery.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid When You Have a Stomach Ache
Milk and Dairy Products
Milk, along with dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, should be avoided during a stomach ache, especially if digestive issues like diarrhea are present. Dairy products contain lactose, a sugar that requires the enzyme lactase for digestion. About 70% of the global population lacks sufficient lactase, making it difficult for them to digest lactose. This deficiency can lead to digestive problems like bloating and diarrhea.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages contain carbon dioxide, which can increase gas production in the digestive system. Drinking these can worsen stomach pain by trapping gas in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like belching, bloating, and discomfort.
Spicy Food
Spicy food, containing capsaicin, can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. This irritation can cause a burning sensation, worsen abdominal pain, and exacerbate symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. Capsaicin may also speed up bowel movements, worsening diarrhea and stomach cramps.
Fried and Fatty Food
When dealing with stomach discomfort or bloating, it’s best to avoid fried and fatty food. These are harder to digest than lower-fat options and can worsen symptoms. Fat slows stomach emptying, leading to a sensation of fullness and increased bloating. Additionally, it can intensify nausea and gas-related discomfort.
Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate and caffeine can aggravate stomach aches. Both contain stimulant compounds, such as caffeine and theobromine, that can affect the digestive tract.
Both compounds can trigger stomach acid production and relax the esophageal valve, causing heartburn and acid reflux.
Acidic Food
Acidic food, like citrus fruits, mangoes, and tomato sauce, can promote the production of stomach acid, further irritating the stomach and esophagus. If inflammation or irritation is already present, these foods can cause discomfort, a burning sensation, and pain. The high acidity of these food can also alter the pH balance in the digestive tract, leading to bloating and gas.
Choosing the right food and drinks when you have a stomach ache can help minimize irritation, prevent bloating, and promote a quicker recovery.
If your stomach pain worsens or persists, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper treatment. You can also use the Ai Care health consultation service by downloading the app from the App Store or Play Store.
Looking for more information on nutrition, food, and diet tips? Click here!
- dr Nadia Opmalina
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Mayo Clinic (2022). Lactose intolerance. Avaialable from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lactose-intolerance/symptoms-causes/syc-20374232
Emily Shiffer (2022). The Link Between Carbonated Drinks and Stomach Pains. Available from: https://www.livestrong.com/article/500988-why-do-i-have-stomach-cramps-when-i-drink-soda/
Kenneth Brown, MD (2023). Why Eating Spicy Food Can Give You Diarrhea. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-does-spicy-food-cause-diarrhea-1088717
Elise Mandl, BSc, Msc, APD (2023). 7 Effects of Greasy Food on Your Body. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/greasy-food
Heather Hobbs (2024). Can You Eat Chocolate If You Have Acid Reflux?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/chocolate-and-acid-reflux
