Severe Cramping (HELP)

I had this problem--I couldn't even drink 1/2 cup of water without stomach cramps. You have to "train your gut." From what I understand, when we exercise, our body directs blood flow away from our digestion organs to our limbs, which causes stomach discomfort. I started by running on an empty stomach (3-4 hours after having ate/drank anything) and then gradually started adding liquids and then carb-based, low fiber foods closer to my run time. Generally I don't like to eat and then go directly on a run, but at least now I can have a piece of toast and then an hour later not have any problems.

I find that I cannot eat ANYTHING before a workout, and if I do, I get terrible cramps in my stomach. I often have to eat and then wait up to 5 hours so that I won't cramp while training.

I read that potassium can help the cramping and I can find that in bananas, but again...it's solid food. I'm a little apprehensive that's going to make me cramp up, too.

Any suggestions?

I think the potassium is for a different type of cramp (muscle cramps, like in the legs for example). Look up DOMS (Delayed onset muscle soreness).

For stomach cramps when you're running, I find that if I lift my arms above my head and wrap it around my head to stretch out my abdomen it helps when I'm running (but looks retarded). It was common when running in cadets. So, stretch before your workout. Nearly everyone gets cramps if they try to do something immediately after eating. I like to give at least a few hrs. And if you would rather exercise on a empty stomach, then do just that!