What Are the Most Common Causes of Bloating?

The most common causes of bloating are indigestion due to bad eating habits, a gastrointestinal disorder known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and abdominal gas caused by food that contains artificial sweeteners. People who have upper abdominal bloating or lower abdominal bloating sometimes do not realize that they have such problems. Bloating delays the digestive processes involved in emptying the stomach, adding excess weight.

Indigestion is a digestive disorder primarily derived from eating the wrong food at the wrong time. A person who has bad eating habits may not only suffer from excess fat but also from indigestion. One sign of indigestion and bloating is when the person experiences discomfort after a meal. This symptom, which is related to dyspepsia, is characterized by gas or abdominal pain. Painful bloating such as this is an indication that the food in the stomach is not properly digesting.

Some people think that flab on the stomach is caused by fat alone; if the stomach changes in size significantly over a relatively short period of time, however, it may be a sign of indigestion and bloating. In many cases, the flab is actually caused by both bloating and the excess fat. To remove the bulge on the stomach, the person has to resolve both issues. He or she should keep in mind, however, that no amount of stomach exercise and spot training will relieve bloating and the bulge that comes with it.

Among other causes of bloating is the regular eating of chewing gum. Whenever a person chews gum, he or she can swallow large amounts of air which goes directly to the stomach. More particularly, sugarless gum that contains artificial sweetener should be avoided by people who have a problem with bloating. This is because the stomach may not be able to digest the artificial ingredients in the sugarless gum, which can produce abdominal gas, another one of the major causes of bloating.

Not all cases of bloating are caused by indigestion and abdominal gas, however. Other causes of bloating may be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic bloating, diarrhea, and irregular bowel movements.

IBS can be caused by excessive meals, emotional stress, and medicinal side effects. It can also be caused by foods that contain wheat, chocolate, and caffeine. People who suffer from bloating due to IBS often take bloating remedies and avoid eating the foods that worsen the condition. Anyone who suspects he or she may have this condition should see a doctor who specializes in gastrointestinal problems.

Many of us have experienced the uncomfortable feeling of bloating. It can be caused by several things, including overeating, drinking carbonated beverages, or eating gas-producing foods like beans and broccoli. However, there are some simple ways to help reduce bloating. For example, greens such as kale and spinach can help to detoxify the digestive system and promote regularity. Additionally, probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and sauerkraut can help increase the number of good bacteria in the gut, aiding digestion. So, next time you're feeling bloated, grab some greens for bloating or a cup of ginger tea.