Stomach pain can range from a mild discomfort to a debilitating condition that completely disrupts your day-to-day activities. Oftentimes, what you eat can significantly impact the severity and frequency of stomach pain.

While some foods can alleviate pain and soothe your stomach, others can aggravate your symptoms and make them even worse.

: Here are the top 10 worst foods for stomach pain

1. Fried Foods

Fried foods are notoriously difficult to digest and can linger in your stomach for hours. Plus, the high fat content of fried foods can cause inflammation and irritation in the stomach lining, leading to pain and discomfort.

Avoid fried chicken, French fries, and other deep-fried foods if you’re prone to stomach pain.

2. Spicy Foods

If you’re struggling with stomach pain, it’s best to steer clear of spicy foods. The capsaicin found in hot peppers can irritate the lining of the stomach and even trigger acid reflux in some individuals.

Spicy foods can also increase inflammation in the gut, which can lead to cramps and abdominal pain.

3. Dairy Products

Dairy products can be difficult to digest for people who are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to milk protein. Consuming dairy products can cause discomfort in the stomach, including gas, bloating, and cramping.

If you’re experiencing stomach pain, it’s worth cutting out dairy products to see if your symptoms improve.

4. Acidic Foods

Acidic foods, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar, can irritate the stomach lining and cause pain and discomfort. These foods can worsen conditions like acid reflux and gastritis, which can cause a burning sensation in the stomach and chest.

5. Caffeine

Caffeine is known to stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can lead to heartburn and stomach pain. Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages can also cause dehydration, which can exacerbate stomach pain.

6. Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, all of which can be detrimental to gut health.

These foods can cause inflammation in the stomach lining and disrupt the delicate balance of gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues and stomach pain.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and increase the production of stomach acid, leading to increased inflammation and pain. Consuming alcohol can also dehydrate the body, making stomach pain worse.

8. Refined Carbohydrates

Foods that are high in refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and pastries, can cause bloating and gas in the stomach.

These foods can also disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and promote inflammation, leading to stomach pain and discomfort.

9. High-Fat Foods

Foods that are high in fat, such as fried foods and fatty meats, can be difficult to digest and cause discomfort in the stomach. These foods can also increase inflammation in the gut, leading to cramps and abdominal pain.

10. Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can cause bloating and gas in the stomach. These beverages can also cause acid reflux and heartburn, leading to discomfort and pain.

The Bottom Line

If you’re experiencing stomach pain, it’s important to be mindful of the foods you’re consuming. Avoiding the worst offenders on this list can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall digestive health.

Instead, opt for foods that are easy to digest and gentle on the stomach, such as lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.