What should I eat in case of intestinal cramps?

In the case of intestinal cramps, the cause is often a generally irritated digestive tract, so in the case of intestinal cramps, one should eat a diet that is as gentle as possible. In most cases, the symptoms improve after a few days, so that a rapid build-up of food can take place again. The first important thing to remember when eating is to drink enough fluids.

This can be ensured by teas, juices and vegetable/meat broth, for example. In addition, foods that contain little fiber are also suitable. For example, rusks and white bread are suitable foods in the acute phase of intestinal cramps. On the other hand, fruit and especially flatulent vegetables should be avoided for the time being. Even foods that are heavy in the stomach and particularly rich in fat should only be back on the menu after the intestinal cramps have subsided.

These painkillers can cause intestinal cramps

Among the painkillers that can trigger intestinal cramps are mainly those substances that are freely available. For example, taking aspirin, ibuprofen or diclofenac (Voltaren®) can lead to an increased incidence of intestinal cramps. All these drugs belong to the group of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). In addition to intestinal cramps, they can also cause damage to the stomach and intestinal mucosa when taken more frequently, thus causing bleeding in the digestive tract. Stronger painkillers from the group of opioids have the opposite effect on the intestine: they inhibit the movement of the muscles and can even lead to constipation.

What to do against mental intestinal cramps?

Psychological intestinal cramps often have their origin in a mixture of physical and psychological complaints. For this reason, treatment should address both the physical complaints and the psychological background. As with other intestinal cramps, a diet that calms the digestive tract helps.

Therefore, foods that are as gentle as possible should be eaten. A sufficient amount of fluids is also important for recovery.In addition, the psychological factors (most often stress) that trigger the intestinal cramps should be treated. In many cases, a few days of relaxation are sufficient to forget the stress of everyday life. In the case of deeper-seated psychological complaints, the family doctor can be consulted first, and in the course of the treatment a psychotherapist may also be consulted. For diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, there are even special clinics that specialize in the interaction between the bowel and the psyche.