Bloating is uncomfortable and something most people have experienced at least once in their lives. Eating large meals can cause bloating, but sometimes the items within the meal are the true culprits. Correcting even one of the Top 10 causes of stomach bloating can keep your pants loose and support a happier you.
Top 10 Causes of Stomach Bloating
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Gas-producing foods are a top cause of bloating because of their fiber-rich consistency. Some common foods include beans, cauliflower, broccoli and raw onion. Gas and bloating is common with certain vegetables. If you have an unknown digestive problem, your body may not be able to break down the material properly, thus causing an excess in gas.
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Medical conditions exclusively affecting the digestive tract also cause painful bloating and excess gas. A number of GI conditions including ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gastro paresis can instigate bloating. In this case bloating is generally a symptom of the condition.
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A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise can create stomach bloating in addition to obesity. Without physical activity, the digestive tract can become sluggish and insufficient in proper digestion.
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Stress is a factor in many medical conditions and bloating is one of them. Stress can cause erratic muscle spasms which can cause digestive problems down the road.
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PMS and pregnancy are contributors to stomach bloating, as many women already know. The reason for this is that the stomach muscles become slow and stagnant due to the overwhelming amount of hormones racing through the body.
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Carbonated beverages including soda and beer create an excessive gas build-up from all of the additional carbonation, and sugar being added into the stomach.
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Caffeinated foods encourage stomach bloating. Items like coffee, tea, or your favorite chocolate can all create digestive discomfort.
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Common food allergies and/or sensitivities can cause excess gas and stomach irritation. Products that include lactose, soy, wheat, eggs, and nuts can call cause reactions in the form of excess gas and bloating.
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Unhealthy diets loaded with fat and grease are harder for the stomach to digest. The breakdown of these elements produces excess gas and even possible loose stools, both of which bloating is a common symptom for.
- In addition to being bad for your lungs and long-term health, smoking irritates the lining of the stomach. It also encourages air inhalation, which traps the air in the stomach and creates bloating.
