7 causes and how to alleviate them

Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are a natural reaction to an empty stomach. They may cause a hollow or gnawing feeling or an empty sensation.

But hunger pangs can happen even if the body does not need food. Several other situations and conditions can lead to hunger pangs, including:

• sleep deprivation
• dehydration
• eating the wrong foods

Read on to learn more about hunger pains and discover how to ease them.

People get hunger pangs or hunger pains for several different reasons. Seven reasons are explained here:

1. Hunger hormone

Share on PinterestThe release of ghrelin in the body, dehydration, and a person’s emotional state can cause hunger pains.

The brain triggers the release of a hormone called ghrelin in response to an empty stomach or in anticipation of the next meal.

Ghrelin signals the body to release stomach acids to digest food. If food is not consumed, the stomach acids begin to attack the lining of the stomach, causing hunger pains.

Studies have shown that ghrelin increases hunger by up to 30 percent when it is administered to adults.

2. Quality of food eaten

Hunger pangs can happen even when the body does not need calories.

This is because ghrelin interacts with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Falling levels of insulin cause ghrelin, and therefore hunger, levels to rise.

Junk food contains high amounts of sugar and simple carbohydrates. Eating it causes a spike in insulin levels, followed by a quick drop. Ghrelin then increases, even though the food was consumed only an hour or so beforehand.

In this way, eating even large amounts of poor quality food can increase hunger and cause the pang response in the body.

3. Dehydration

Many people cannot tell the difference between hunger and thirst because the symptoms are so similar.

Thirst can cause symptoms, such as:

• stomach pains
• shaking
• irritability
• lightheadedness

4.

The environment

Some people experience pangs in response to smells and sights. Many people have a physical response to the smell of freshly baked goods or cooking. Images of food on T.V. or online can also cause the mouth to water.

Although this type of hunger may not be based on a need for food, it causes very real physical symptoms, including hunger pains.

5. Lack of sleep

Overeating and excess weight have long been associated with sleep deprivation. It appears that hunger pains may be linked to a lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep.

Lack of sleep increases the effects of a chemical that makes eating sweet, salty, and high-fat foods more appealing, a 2016 study suggests.

The sleep-deprived study participants ate a meal containing 90 percent of their daily calories but were unable to resist junk foods just 2 hours later.

6. Emotional state

People may mistake their brain signals for food as hunger pains in some cases. This situation can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state.

Research suggests that stress and other negative emotions can make it seem like the body urgently needs food, even when it may not.

A rumbling or growling stomach can sometimes help distinguish between emotional and physical hunger. The noises can only be heard when the stomach is empty.

7. Medication and medical conditions

Hunger pangs may be caused by medical conditions in rare cases. This is true for people with diabetes, as hunger increases when blood sugar crashes.

It can indicate an infection or digestive illness that requires medical attention if pains occur alongside other symptoms. Look out for symptoms, such as:

• diarrhea
• dizziness
• fever
• headaches
• nausea
• vomiting
• weakness

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, may interfere with hunger signals and ghrelin release.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of hunger pains may include tiredness, irritability, and lightheadedness.

Hunger pains feel like a gnawing or rumbling in the stomach. They may also present as contractions or the feeling of emptiness.

Other symptoms may include:

• cravings for certain foods
• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• irritability
• strong desire to eat

Once food is consumed, hunger pains and other hunger symptoms usually go away. The stomach adjusts to this new level of fullness (or emptiness), so they may even subside without eating anything.

Research on mice has found that there is an instinctive desire to reduce hunger pangs and other hunger signals. Certain neurons in the brain kick in to fuel appetite once a certain amount of bodyweight has been lost.

This may explain why it is challenging to stick to a diet when experiencing hunger pains.

There may be other ways to control hunger pangs while losing weight even though the researchers suggest that manipulating these neurons will help people maintain their diets.

To alleviate hunger pains, especially when dieting, people can try the following:

Eat at regular intervals

Ghrelin is released in response to what someone’s usual mealtimes are.

Sticking to a schedule will ensure food reaches the stomach in time to meet the stomach acid released in response to ghrelin spikes.

It can also be helpful to carry healthful, low-calorie snacks, such as fruit and nuts, when outside the home, in case it is not possible to eat a full meal at a designated meal time.

Choose nutrient-dense foods

Share on PinterestEating healthful foods including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are recommended to alleviate hunger pains.

Avoid insulin dips by choosing healthful food options instead of processed ones.

Eat balanced meals that contain:

• lean protein, such as beans, lentils, and skinless poultry
• whole grains, including brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat products
• fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned (without added sugar)
• healthful fats, found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds
• low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives

A person should try to limit the intake of foods that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats. Refined carbohydrates, including white bread and white pasta, should be eaten in moderation or not at all.

Fill up on low-calorie foods

Some low-calorie foods are considered high-volume, meaning they take up space in the stomach yet do not contribute to weight gain.

A full stomach will cause levels of ghrelin to drop, which alleviates hunger pains. High-volume, low-calorie foods include:

• salads
• raw or lightly steamed green vegetables
• homemade vegetable soups
• green smoothies

Stay hydrated

Sip water throughout the day. Aim to drink 8 glasses daily. Limit diuretic drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration.

Get enough sleep

It is sensible to avoid food cravings caused by sleep deprivation by establishing a sleep routine. It helps to go to bed and get up at the same time every day and aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours nightly.

Practice mindful eating

When eating, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew food thoroughly. Do not watch television during mealtimes.

Use distractions

A person can try to ignore hunger pains if they are not based on a real need for food.

Effective distractions include:

• reading
• dancing
• exercise
• working
• socializing

Consult a doctor if hunger pains regularly persist despite eating balanced meals. Stomach pains may suggest a gastrointestinal disorder or infection.

People who experience the following symptoms along with their hunger pangs should also see a doctor:

• breathlessness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• rapid changes in weight
• sleep difficulties
• vomiting
• weakness

Stomach pains are a normal response to hunger. Although they may signal a need for food, it is possible to experience hunger pangs in response to other situations, including dehydration, sleep loss, and anxiety.

Hunger pains rarely need medical attention, as they usually go away once food is eaten.

People who are dieting may wish to take steps to alleviate their hunger pains to meet their weight loss goals.

Causes, Management, When to Seek Help, and More

You may experience pain when your stomach feels empty or if you are used to eating at a certain time. Hunger pangs after eating may occur with some health conditions.

You’ve probably experienced gnawing, painful feelings in your stomach at some point, in the upper left side of your abdomen. These are commonly known as hunger pangs. Hunger pangs, or hunger pains, are caused by strong contractions of the stomach when it’s empty. This uncomfortable sensation is often accompanied by hunger, or the desire to eat.

Despite being called “hunger” pangs, these pains don’t always indicate a true need to eat. They may be caused by an empty stomach and a need or hunger to eat, or they may be caused by your body being in a routine of eating certain amounts of food or eating at specific times of day.

Each person’s body is unique. Some people don’t feel the need to eat as often or like to feel as full. Others experience hunger pangs more quickly if they haven’t eaten recently. There isn’t a set amount of time after which hunger pangs may begin. Almost all people will experience hunger pangs if they go long enough without eating or drinking.

Hunger pangs may be your body’s way of telling you that it needs more nutrients. You may also experience hunger pangs because your stomach has become accustomed to a certain feeling of fullness.

The stomach is a muscular organ that is capable of stretching and collapsing. When it’s stretched by food and liquid, you tend to feel full. When it’s been a long time since you last ate or drank, your stomach is flatter and may contract, causing you to experience hunger pangs.

Numerous factors affect your feelings of hunger, including:

• hormones
• your environment
• the quantity and quality of food you eat
• lack of sleep
• stress or anxiety
• your brain’s desire for a pleasant eating experience

You may also experience hunger pangs because you need to eat a diet higher in essential nutrients.

Hunger pangs are rarely caused by a medical condition. If you’re experiencing ongoing or severe abdominal pain, you should contact your doctor for help. This is especially true if the hunger pangs are accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• fever
• diarrhea
• nausea
• dizziness
• vomiting
• headaches
• feelings of weakness

Symptoms of hunger pangs typically include:

• abdominal pain
• a “gnawing” or “rumbling” sensation in your stomach
• painful contractions in your stomach area
• a feeling of “emptiness” in your stomach

Hunger pangs are often accompanied by symptoms of hunger, such as:

• a desire to eat
• a craving for specific foods
• a tired or lightheaded feeling
• irritability

Hunger pangs typically subside with eating, but they can subside even if you don’t eat. Your body is capable of adjusting to what it feels is necessary for stomach fullness. Over time, the contractions of your stomach will lessen. However, if you aren’t eating enough to get essential nutrients, it will be harder for your hunger pangs to go away.

Hunger pangs can be especially difficult to deal with when you’re trying to follow a diet. Here are some ways to alleviate your hunger pangs so you can stay on track with your health goals.

• Try eating smaller, more frequent meals. Your total caloric intake, not your meal frequency, is what affects weight loss or gain. Eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day can help reduce uncomfortable feelings of hunger.
• Make sure you’re eating a nutrient-dense diet. Eating more lean protein, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables will give your body the nutrition it requires, which can help prevent hunger pangs.
• Eating higher volume foods (think green leafy vegetables or foods high in water content like soup) and foods high in fiber can help you feel full for a longer period of time.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep helps keep in balance the hormones that influence your feelings of hunger and fullness.
• Try focusing on and enjoying each meal as you eat it. Intentionally remembering the food you’ve eaten each day may help reduce feelings of hunger.
• Distraction can help alleviate hunger pangs. Try reading, talking with a friend, working on a project that interests you, putting on loud music, brushing your teeth, taking a walk, or visualizing your health goals.

Hunger pangs are usually a normal response to an empty stomach. You may wish to consult your doctor if you experience hunger pangs after eating a balanced meal, if you feel like you can never eat enough, or if you experience other symptoms with your hunger pangs such as:

• dizziness
• weakness
• headaches
• nausea
• vomiting
• shortness of breath
• diarrhea
• constipation
• rapid weight gain or loss
• sleep issues

Hunger pangs are a common bodily response to an empty stomach. They’re often a sign of hunger, but may also be related to eating habits.

If you’re trying to follow a diet, there are ways to prevent and alleviate hunger pangs so you can continue to reach your health goals.

Hunger signs are rarely a sign of a medical condition, but there are times when you might consider seeking medical attention.

what is it, reasons, what to do

How heaviness in the stomach manifests itself

In the stomach, food is digested mainly with the help of the digestive enzymes of the gastric juice. This process takes from one to several hours. Processed food, thanks to active contractions of the stomach, moves further – to the intestines ¹ .

However, if for some reason, especially due to errors in the diet, such as overeating, the coordination of contractions of the smooth muscles of the stomach is disturbed and food does not move, the person may experience a feeling of heaviness in the upper abdomen or a feeling of rapid satiety ^{4. 1} .

Descriptions of the resulting “heaviness in the abdomen” are varied, as well as the degree of severity. Patients may complain of a feeling of fullness, a painful sensation of prolonged food in the stomach, which may depend on food intake. Another symptom is early satiety, when a feeling of heaviness in the stomach occurs immediately after the start of a meal, which prevents the completion of the usual portion of food ^1-3 .

Heaviness in the stomach may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a feeling of heat in the upper abdomen (epigastrium), belching, nausea, and bloating. Often they are accompanied by pain in the upper abdomen (from mild to severe), which are intermittent, may be associated with food intake or appear on an empty stomach ^2-4 .

Descriptions of the resulting “heaviness in the abdomen” are varied, as well as the degree of severity. Patients may complain of a feeling of fullness, a painful sensation of prolonged food in the stomach, which may depend on food intake. Another symptom is early satiety, when a feeling of heaviness in the stomach occurs immediately after the start of a meal, which prevents the completion of the usual portion of food ^1-3 .

Heaviness in the stomach may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a feeling of heat in the upper abdomen (epigastrium), belching, nausea, and bloating. Often they are accompanied by pain in the upper abdomen (from mild to severe), which are intermittent, may be associated with food intake or appear on an empty stomach ^2-4 .

Possible causes of heaviness in the abdomen

Experts divide the origin of the complex of symptoms, including a feeling of heaviness and fullness in the stomach, into two categories. The first one is of a functional nature, that is, symptoms that are not associated with certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

The second is organic causes, in which heaviness in the stomach may indicate the presence of any disease or pathological condition, such as peptic ulcer or chronic pancreatitis ³ . Let’s consider these reasons in more detail.

Causes of violations of a functional nature

Stress

It has been established that in almost all patients with functional digestive disorders, exposure to even one of the stress factors (such as family troubles, financial, housing or professional problems) preceded the development of the disease or its aggravation ^{3, 4} . In such patients, a higher level of anxiety and depression was noted compared to healthy people, and a relationship was demonstrated between the presence of complaints from the gastrointestinal tract and any mental disorders ⁵ .

Food on the run

When a person eats quickly, snacking between important things, constantly looking at the clock, insufficiently processed food can enter the stomach – poorly chewed. The stomach has to spend more time processing it, so there may be a feeling of heaviness. This can also be observed in older people, only a violation of their chewing function can already be noted not due to lack of time, but due to age-related changes in the chewing apparatus ^{2, 6} .

Taking certain medications

The cause of heaviness in the stomach can be the intake of certain drugs: anticholinergics, antispasmodics, tricyclic antidepressants, calcium antagonists and others ⁴ . Much more often than drugs of other pharmacological groups, complaints from the stomach can cause non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ⁸ .

Food allergies and intolerances

Among the pathological reactions to food that can lead to discomfort in the abdomen, including heaviness, food intolerance and food allergy are distinguished. Food intolerance is a pathological change in the gastrointestinal tract due to hereditary and / or acquired enzymopathies, that is, a deficiency of certain enzymes (lactase deficiency, gluten enteropathy) ^{10, 15} .

Food allergies are based on allergic inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, which occurs due to the characteristics of the body’s immune system, as well as other concomitant factors, for example, increased permeability of the intestinal walls, which is noted with a lack of digestive enzymes of the pancreas, impaired bile secretion, inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ^{10, 15} .

Bad habits

Alcohol abuse can adversely affect the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract ⁷ . Smoking, according to a number of data, can contribute to an increase in the risk of functional indigestion* by 2 times, and quitting it, on the contrary, favors the normalization of the motor function of the stomach ³ .

Malnutrition

First of all, this is overeating, in which the volume of food can exceed the digestive capacity of the stomach and pancreas. If food is retained in the upper gastrointestinal tract longer than necessary, and the secretion of digestive enzymes is insufficient to digest the amount of food received, this can lead to a feeling of heaviness in the stomach ^{1, 14} .

In addition, many patients with functional indigestion* may refuse to eat certain foods due to the possible appearance of more pronounced complaints, including a feeling of heaviness. Foods that are worst tolerated by patients include hot peppers, caffeinated and carbonated drinks, mayonnaise, nuts, citrus fruits, chocolate ⁵ .

Age transformations

With age, the secretory and motor functions of the stomach may decrease, and thinning of its muscular wall can be observed. Changes in the vascular bed can lead to impaired blood circulation in the stomach, which may be one of the reasons for the decrease in the number of parietal cells that produce hydrochloric acid, an important component of gastric juice for digestion. The gastric mucosa in the elderly can be easily vulnerable, which increases the risk of developing an ulcer, also associated with the symptoms described above. Structural changes in combination with secretory insufficiency can lead to a feeling of heaviness in the stomach ^{6, 9} .

Food poisoning

There is a variant of functional indigestion* that may be associated with past food poisoning. According to the results of examinations of patients who had acute infectious gastroenteritis, 20% of patients developed complaints from the gastrointestinal tract, including heaviness in the stomach, which is associated with slow gastric emptying due to food poisoning the day before ³ .

Causes of violations of organic nature

Pathologies of the gallbladder

In diseases of the gallbladder with impaired bile excretion, there may be a feeling of discomfort from the digestive system. This may occur due to a violation of the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients, which is observed due to insufficient intake of bile acids into the lumen of the small intestine. Difficulty in digestion may be accompanied by a decrease in appetite, a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, flatulence, and stool disorders. One of the characteristic complaints is also short-term pain in the right hypochondrium, which manifests itself in the form of spasms ^{2, 13} .

Metabolic disorders

Diseases that may cause a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen include diabetes mellitus, systemic scleroderma, some endocrine diseases (thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism) ⁴ .

Other diseases that can

cause heaviness in the abdomen

These diseases can affect one or another link in the digestive process. For example, chronic gastritis, chronic pancreatitis, hepatitis, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), neoplasms, congestive gastropathy in chronic heart failure or portal hypertension syndrome, etc. ¹¹

How can causes and symptoms be corrected heaviness in the stomach?

Measures that can help to cope with heaviness in the stomach caused by functional disorders include primarily those aimed at the process of digestion ² . Here’s what you can do:

1

Eat moderately

The body must be given the opportunity to cope with the disturbance. Therefore, it is better to eat small portions of food ^2-5 .

1

Eat moderately

The body must be given the opportunity to cope with the disturbance. Therefore, it is better to eat small meals ^2-5 .

2

Diet

Diet plays an important role in the presence of heaviness in the stomach: it is best to follow a light diet. First of all, you should give up fatty and spicy, as well as coffee ^2-5 .

Preparations containing digestive enzymes ¹⁷ can help improve digestion processes in case of nutritional errors. One of these drugs is Festal® ^{2, 12} . It contains several components at once that contribute to the processes of digestion of food and thus can help with symptoms of impaired digestion, including a feeling of heaviness in the stomach ^{2, 12} .

More about
preparation

Preparations containing digestive enzymes ¹⁷ can help improve digestion processes in case of nutritional errors. One of these drugs is Festal® ^{2, 12} . It contains several components at once that contribute to the processes of digestion of food and thus can help with symptoms of impaired digestion, including a feeling of heaviness in the stomach ^{2, 12} .

Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, protease, lipase) facilitate the digestion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins ¹² . The bile components in Festal® facilitate the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins, and also promote the release of the pancreas’ own enzymes** ^{, 12} . And finally, the third component, the enzyme hemicellulase, helps to break down plant fiber, thereby helping to reduce gas formation, which can accompany heaviness in the abdomen ^{2, 12} .

It is important to remember that only a doctor can understand the causes of discomfort and prescribe the right treatment. If the symptoms of impaired digestion, including heaviness in the abdomen, do not decrease, become permanent, or other symptoms join them, you should contact a specialist.

It is important to remember that only a doctor can understand the causes of discomfort and prescribe the right treatment. If the symptoms of impaired digestion, including heaviness in the abdomen, do not decrease, become permanent, or other symptoms join them, you should contact a specialist.

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. BEFORE USE IT IS NECESSARY TO CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST.

Why does the stomach hurt after eating: causes and advice

Why does the stomach hurt after eating and what to do in such a situation? Find out the causes, symptoms and expert advice to ease discomfort and improve digestion.

If you experience stomach pain after eating, it can be not only unpleasant, but also dangerous to your health. Such sensations can be associated with various reasons, ranging from ordinary overeating to serious illnesses.

One of the most common causes of stomach pain after eating is digestive intolerance. It can be associated with the individual characteristics of the body, as well as with malnutrition. In addition, other diseases are possible, including gastritis, peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum, chronic pancreatitis, etc.

To avoid these problems, it is important to monitor your diet and not abuse fatty, spicy, smoked and sweet foods. Moreover, it is necessary to regularly undergo medical examinations and consult a doctor at the first symptoms of pain.

Feeling of heaviness and discomfort

Feeling of heaviness in the stomach and discomfort after eating are fairly common symptoms. This condition can occur in anyone at any age. It is usually accompanied by pain in the upper abdomen and discomfort.

There can be many reasons why there is a feeling of heaviness after eating. This may be due to an unhealthy diet, excessive food intake, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, allergies to certain foods, or problems with the digestive system.

Feeling of heaviness in the stomach and discomfort may also be associated with stress, insufficient water in the body or a sedentary lifestyle. It is important to understand that several factors can be the cause, and only identifying the underlying problem will help eliminate these unpleasant sensations.

The main tips for feeling heaviness and discomfort are diet, avoidance of excessive consumption of fatty and fried foods, regular physical activity, proper sleep and avoidance of stressful situations.

• Eat small meals without overeating.
• Preference should be given to healthy and easily digestible food – vegetables, fruits, grains and protein products.
• It is also recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Along with this, it is very important not to forget about the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables.

While feelings of heaviness and discomfort can occur quite often, they can be avoided with a healthy lifestyle and diet. If the problem persists for a long time, you should consult a doctor for additional consultation and diagnosis.

Acidity in the mouth and heartburn

Acidity in the mouth can be caused not only by eating certain foods, but also by poor diet and lifestyle. Excessive drinking, smoking, and lack of exercise can increase the acidity in the stomach, which in turn leads to heartburn, a burning sensation and discomfort in the chest and stomach.

To avoid heartburn and acidity in the mouth, a healthy lifestyle and proper diet are essential. Avoid spicy and fatty foods, drink plenty of water and exercise. In addition, you can use medicines that reduce the acidity in the stomach and relieve heartburn.

• Proton pump inhibitors are medicines that reduce stomach acid and prevent heartburn.
• Antacids are drugs that neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn.
• Cholinolytic drugs – drugs that reduce acid in the stomach, but do not neutralize the acid, like antacids.

Regular occurrence of acidity in the stomach and heartburn can indicate serious health problems, so do not put off a visit to the doctor.

Feeling hungry after eating

Often people complain of feeling hungry immediately after eating. This phenomenon can be caused by several reasons.

One of the main reasons is insufficient chewing load. If the food is not chewed enough, the body does not have time to adapt and process the resulting food lump. As a result, the stomach cannot process a significant amount of food, which leads to a feeling of hunger.

Also, after eating, there may be a feeling of hunger in violation of the diet. For example, if a person eats at too long intervals, then his stomach contracts more intensively than it was before. This leads to rapid production of gastric juice and a feeling of hunger after eating.

Do not forget about psychological factors. If there is a feeling that the food is not too satiating, then perhaps the reason lies in increased stress, apathy or depression. In such cases, it is important to take care of your psycho-emotional state and learn to control your feelings and emotions.

Surely many people know that regular hunger increases appetite and encourages excessive snacking, regardless of how full the meal was last. In order to avoid inconvenience and excessive snacking, you should take care of your diet, increase the amount of water and vegetables in your diet, and try not to put off eating for later.

Increased pain when bending and turning

One of the signs of stomach problems is increased pain when bending and turning the body after eating. This is due to the fact that food puts pressure on the walls of the stomach, and when the position of the body changes, this pressure increases.

If you have pain when bending and turning, you can try to make light massage movements on the abdomen to reduce tension inside. It can also help to temporarily refuse food until the stomach calms down.

However, if the pain becomes severe and does not go away for a long time, it is necessary to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Gas in the intestines

Gas in the intestines is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain after eating. Gas in the intestines is normal and usually eliminated through regular flatulence. However, if gases are not removed, they can begin to accumulate and lead to painful burping.

Gas buildup can be caused by many factors, including eating certain foods, poor eating habits, stress, and other factors.

• Certain foods can cause gas in the intestines, such as: beans, broccoli, cabbage, peas, and certain grains;
• Incorrect eating habits, such as quick intake of carbonated drinks, chewing gum and eating a lot of sugary foods, can also contribute to the accumulation of gases in the intestines;
• Stress may play a role in gas deposition as it can alter normal bowel regulation resulting in gas retention;

Proper nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce intestinal gas and reduce the frequency of abdominal pain. It is important to watch what you eat and pay attention to foods that cause anxiety in order to avoid them in the future.

If you experience regular abdominal pain or other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or unusual stools, see your doctor for advice.

Food allergy symptoms

Food allergy is an immune system reaction to certain foods. Food allergy symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen with repeated exposure to the allergen.

The main symptoms of a food allergy are:

• Skin rashes: redness, itching and swelling of the skin.
• Runny nose and cough: respiratory disorders, cough and runny nose, and increased dryness of mucous membranes.
• Nausea and vomiting: often occur after eating certain foods. Gastric disorders may be accompanied by pain in the stomach and dizziness.
• Anaphylactic shock: is an extremely dangerous symptom that can occur with allergies to certain foods. This discharge manifests itself in the form of respiratory failure, arrhythmia, lowering blood pressure and consciousness. This symptom can be fatal if you do not call an ambulance.

If you have the above symptoms of a food allergy, you should see a doctor or allergist for allergy testing and treatment.

Acute stomach pains

Acute stomach pains can be caused by several causes that can be dangerous, including gastritis, stomach ulcers, or stone formation.

Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach that can be caused by poor diet, alcohol consumption, or chronic infections. Acute pain in the stomach associated with gastritis can occur immediately after eating or 1-2 hours after eating.

Gastric ulcer is a lesion of the gastric mucosa that creates knots in the walls of the stomach. With peptic ulcer of the stomach in the process of digestion, sharp pains appear in the stomach. They can appear 2-3 hours after eating, and also at night on an empty stomach.

Stone formation is an accumulation of bile acids in the stomach that form a precipitate. Stone formation can cause abdominal pain, which often occurs in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and can be triggered by eating fatty or spicy foods.

If you experience acute stomach pain for a long time, be sure to seek medical attention to determine the cause and prescribe treatment.

Causes of dysbacteriosis

Dysbacteriosis is a condition when the balance of microflora in the intestine is disturbed and the number of pathogenic microorganisms exceeds the norm. There can be several reasons for dysbacteriosis:

1. Unbalanced nutrition. Non-compliance with the diet, overeating, eating fatty and fried foods, alcohol and foods with chemical additives can disrupt the intestines, cause dysbacteriosis.
2. Use of antibiotics. The use of antibiotics can adversely affect the condition of the intestine, destroy beneficial microorganisms and cause dysbacteriosis.
3. Stress. Frequent stress can affect the condition of the intestines, increase the number of pathogens and cause dysbacteriosis.
4. Diseases. Some diseases, such as stomach ulcers, pancreatitis, gastritis, can cause dysbacteriosis.

It is important to remember that dysbacteriosis can affect the functioning of many organs and systems of the body, so it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner and undergo the necessary treatment.

The effect of drugs

Drugs can reduce pain and improve the general condition of a person with pain in the stomach. However, before taking any drug, you should read its instructions and consult a doctor.

Anti-inflammatory drugs have properties to reduce inflammation and eliminate pain. Depending on the composition, they help to cope with various problems, such as gastritis, ulcers, pancreatitis, dyspepsia and other gastric diseases.

Probiotics are medicines designed to restore and normalize bowel function. They contain beneficial bacteria that help in the fight against the health of the stomach and improve the digestion of food. Foods rich in probiotics can also help with stomach issues.

Antisecretory drugs can normalize the level of gastric juice and stop stomach bleeding. These drugs prevent the destructive effect of acid on the gastric mucosa, thereby eliminating the possibility of peptic ulcers.

Antispasmodics help relieve stomach cramps, reduce pain and improve digestion. These drugs are widely used for stomach problems such as colic and spasms.

In any case, it is necessary to take any drug only after consulting a doctor and following all the recommendations specified in the instructions.

Dietary Guidelines for the Prevention of Gastrointestinal Disease

Proper nutrition is a key factor in maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Below are the basic rules of nutrition that will help prevent various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract:

• Regular meals. Eat at least three meals a day on a meal schedule.
• Moderation in eating. Don’t overeat. Try to stay full throughout the day, but don’t overeat.
• More herbal products. Try to eat more fruits, vegetables and greens. They are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the digestive tract.
• Less fat and sugar. Avoid greasy, fried, breaded and smoked foods. Try to limit the amount of sugary and alcoholic drinks.
• Chew food well. Allow sufficient time for chewing food. Good chewing promotes better digestion of food.
• Moderate consumption of coffee and tea. Avoid excessive consumption of coffee and black tea. They can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa.
• High protein diet. Proteins are essential for tissue growth and repair, including gastrointestinal tissue. However, too much protein can increase the load on the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, protein should be consumed in moderation.
• Moderate consumption of spices and condiments. Highly spicy and spicy foods can adversely affect the digestive tract, so spices and seasonings should be used in moderation.

By following these simple nutritional rules, you will keep your digestive tract healthy and reduce the risk of various diseases.

Restrictions on certain foods

Some foods may affect stomach health and cause discomfort. Therefore, if your stomach often hurts after eating, pay attention to the list of foods that need to be limited or completely excluded from the diet.

• Fatty foods. Excessive consumption of fatty foods can cause gallstones and high blood fat. Therefore, you should limit the consumption of fatty meat products, fatty cheeses, store-bought sauces and mayonnaise.
• Hot spices and sauces. The use of hot spices and sauces can cause irritation of the gastric mucosa and cause increased pain after eating. Therefore, if you have a sensitive stomach, avoid hot sauces, peppers and ginger.
• Sweets. Sweet foods can cause increased acidity in the stomach and affect bowel function. Therefore, you should limit the use of confectionery, sweet drinks and syrups.
• Fried foods. Fried foods can cause increased stomach acidity and increase pain after eating. Therefore, you should limit the consumption of fried foods, fast food and baked foods.
• Coffee and alcohol. Drinking coffee and alcoholic beverages may cause stomach irritation and increased pain after eating. Therefore, you should limit the use of coffee and alcohol or even eliminate it from the diet.

Eating recommendations

To prevent stomach pain after eating, it is necessary to follow a correct eating pattern. It is recommended to eat small portions of food and do it often – about 5-6 times a day, so that the stomach is not overloaded.

Also remember to chew your food slowly and thoroughly so that it is better digested. You should not eat before going to bed, as in this case the food will be digested in a horizontal position of the body, which can lead to pain and discomfort. It is also important not to overindulge in spicy, fatty, fried, or heavy foods, which can irritate the stomach and promote inflammation.

Meals should be started with easily digestible foods such as vegetables or fruits to stimulate the stomach. It is also advisable to drink 1-2 glasses of water 30 minutes before meals and 1-2 hours after it, which will also help improve digestion.

It is important to remember that in case of pain and discomfort in the stomach after eating, you should consult a doctor to undergo a diagnosis and determine the cause of these symptoms.

Treatments for stomach pain

1. Avoid certain foods: To reduce stomach pain, find out which foods cause pain in your stomach and avoid them. It can be fast food, fried foods, spicy foods, alcohol and carbonated drinks.

2. Change your diet: The only way to avoid recurrence of stomach pain is to change your diet. Reduce the number of servings you eat, but increase the number of meals per day. This will help your stomach digest food better.

3. Drinks: Drinks can also cause stomach pain. Avoid drinks such as coffee, tea, and sodas. The best replacement option is water and natural juices.

4. Seek medical attention: If stomach pain becomes frequent and impairs your quality of life, contact your physician. He will perform all the necessary studies and prescribe the necessary treatment. Never take medicine without consulting a doctor.

5. Reduce stress: Stress can also cause stomach pain. So to avoid stomach pain, try to reduce your stress levels by doing yoga, meditating, or going for walks.

• Proper nutrition and dietary modification are important factors in the treatment of stomach pain;
• Avoid drinks that can cause stomach pain, such as coffee and sodas;
• Communicating with a doctor, you can find out the cause of your stomach pain and get the necessary treatment;
• Reducing stress can also help with stomach pain;

Benefits of exercise for the gastrointestinal tract

Regular exercise, especially moderate exercise, can have a positive effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Exercise speeds up digestion and helps reduce stress levels that can negatively affect the digestive tract. This is especially important for people who often experience stress and have gastrointestinal problems as a result.

Exercises that strengthen the abdominal muscles can be especially helpful, as this can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation.

In addition, exercise can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, which can lead to less pain and discomfort after eating.

Strive to exercise regularly, but be mindful of your individual abilities and limitations. In case of abdominal pain, you should consult a doctor.

Benefits of drinking water before meals

It may seem that drinking water before meals does not make any sense, but in fact it is a habit that brings many benefits. Water is the source of life and our body cannot live without it. In addition, the drinking regimen plays an important role in the process of digestion.

Drinking regimen before meals helps soften food, which speeds up its digestion, which means it protects our stomach from possible problems. Water also helps to fill the stomach, which will reduce the amount of food eaten, thus promoting a healthier diet.

In addition, the drinking regimen before meals helps to produce gastric juices, which contributes to easy digestion of food and improves the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Remember to always drink water before meals to improve your digestion and improve your life.

Avoid eating right before bed

Many people like to eat before bed, but this can lead to stomach pain and digestive problems. If you eat right before bed, your body doesn’t have time to fully digest the food, and this can cause heartburn, bloating, and stomach pain.

In addition, when you go to bed, your body starts to work in a slower mode, and this slows down the process of digesting food. This can cause you to feel uncomfortable the next morning and your stomach may continue to hurt for a long time.

If it is impossible not to eat before bed, try to choose light, easily digestible foods such as vegetables, fruits or yogurt. Avoid fatty and heavy foods, protein-rich meals, hot spices, and overly sweet snacks.

Remember that your stomach and entire body must rest during sleep, and digesting a heavy meal is a burden on the whole body. Therefore, to avoid pain in the stomach at night, try to eat at least two hours before bedtime. Also, take a short walk after eating, this will help you fully digest your food.

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Q&A:

Why does my stomach hurt after eating?

There may be several reasons, for example, excessive passion for sweets, an empty stomach, too large portions, an incorrectly selected diet. In such cases, stomach pain is temporary and disappears after a few hours.

What diseases can be associated with stomach pain after eating?

Stomach pain can be a symptom of various diseases, including gastritis, gastric ulcer, chronic pancreatitis, colitis, etc. Therefore, if the pain in the stomach does not go away for a long time, you should definitely consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Which foods should be excluded from the diet for stomach pain?

It is better to avoid foods that can irritate the stomach, such as fatty, spicy, smoked and pickled foods, alcoholic and sweet drinks, coffee, chocolate, onions, garlic, etc.

What can you eat if your stomach hurts?

In the period of illness, it is better to prefer soft and easily digestible foods, such as cereals with water, low-fat cottage cheese, eggs, boiled or baked vegetables, skinless chickens, etc. You should not abuse foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, as excess lactose can aggravate pain.

How to avoid stomach pain after eating?

The following simple measures can help avoid stomach pain: do not overeat, do not eat before bed, watch the composition and portion size, do not rush when eating, chew well, avoid exotic and highly complex foods, drink plenty of water.