Swallowing Too Much Air
Most people think of taking in air when they inhale, but it can also be done a number of other ways. Common daily habitssuch as drinking from a straw, chewing gum and eating too quicklyare ways to add air into your digestive tract instead of your respiratory system.
When you swallow too much air you can start to feel bloated, Hoffman said. If its becoming a problem, start cutting out gum and straws and see if that helps eases your symptoms.
When To Talk To Your Health Care Provider
Bloating can be normal, but it can also be a sign of serious conditions. Its important to keep track of what foods cause you to feel bloated, but also note if you experience other symptoms that have accompanied bloating.
If you notice a drastic change in weight or changes in your bowel movementssuch as changes in color or consistencyyou need to tell your provider that as well, as they can be signs of an underlying condition, Hoffman said. If you ate too much and are having trouble digesting your food, then you know that was the likely cause of your bloating and cramping, but if its come on suddenly with a healthy diet, you should err on the side of caution and visit your provider.
Gastric Dilatation And Volvulus
Known as The mother of all emergencies in veterinary medicine, GDV is an extremely dangerous condition in which the stomach fills with air, and then twists on itself inside the abdomen. This leads to a distended appearance of the dogs torso and is often accompanied by a distressed appearance, heavy breathing, and attempts to vomit. In some cases, the stomach is filled with air but hasnt twisted yet and imaging is required for further evaluation .
Read more about GDV, here!
Read Also: How Long Does A Ibs Flare Up Last
It Could Be Constipation
While youre spending a lot of time at home, you may not be moving as much as you usually do. You may also be eating different foods. This can lead to constipation. You may be constipated if you experience:
- Fewer bowel movements than normal for you
- Stool that is lumpy or looks like pebbles
- Difficulty passing stool or a feeling that you still need to go after youre finished
Fortunately, you can make a number of at-home changes to help relieve your constipation. These include:
What Our Customers Say
Have only been taking the Debloat & Detox for a few days but the difference is outstanding! I have lost a lot of the bloat already and no longer feel like a balloon that is about to burst.Chris
Have been taking these for the last 3 days and I can truly say they seem to be doing what Dr Vegan says they do. Feel a lot more comfortable & lighter in myself.Ruth
I regard Debloat and Detox almost as a miracle product. My condition improved virtually overnight having taken my first capsule. Cannot praise this highly enough.Walter
Have only been taking these tablets for three days and already my stomach is a lot flatter and much less bloated! .
Been taking these for 4 days and noticed a massive difference. I used to be really bloated and get cramping on a daily bases, since taking these Im pain and bloated free. Ive tried numerous medication but these beat them all hands down, thank u Dr Vegan :).Frankie
Since taking 2 capsules for the last week I have noticed a big difference. Will be ordering more. Has made my life a whole lot better, my clothes are fitting better too.Theresa
Ive only taken 3 days of them but already much less bloating so looking good.Pamela
Effective already, after only a week of taking it! I eat healthily, have a vegetarian diet but suffer from bloating My stomach has flattened and there is definitely a noticeable difference.Lucy
Read Also: Side Effects Of Antacids Overuse
You May Be Getting Your Period Soon
Bloating typically accompanies the natural hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle, Dr. Christmas tells Good Housekeeping, and it happens most often during the luteal phase. Thats the time when your hormone levels are rising because its right after you ovulate and your body starts to prepare the uterus for an impending pregnancy, she explains. The luteal phase ends when your period actually begins.
During this time, the hormones estrogen and progesterone increase in the body and are usually to blame for bloating. Estrogen can heighten water retention, and progesterone can slow the gastrointestinal tract, causing constipation in the long run. You might counteract some of this around your cycle.
When Should You See A Healthcare Provider For Bloating
Bloating is rarely a sign of a serious medical problem. However, bloating that is long-term and doesn’t respond to changes in eating habits or OTC treatments can sometimes be associated with certain diseases and conditions such as:
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Kidney or heart failure
If you notice you’re frequently bloated or that you become bloated after eating certain foods, you may want to make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. Try to note what triggers your bloating and bring these notes to your appointment.
Don’t Miss: Bleeding Stomach Symptoms
Skip Your Morning Cup Of Coffee
As much as we love the benefits of coffee, drinking it when you’re trying to get rid of belly bloat in 24 hours or less is a no-no.
“Consuming beverages that are high in sugar or caffeine can not only be dehydrating but, in some cases, can add to excess calorie intake, too,” explains Smith. When your body is dehydrated, it will hold onto water, which causes excessive bloating.
Take An Epsom Salt Bath
Relaxing in any tub is always nice, and adding two cups of magnesium-rich Epsom salt may help deflate your belly more effectively Your skin also absorbs the mineral and electrolyte, magnesium, which can help reduce inflammation and may even reduce muscle cramps. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath for 20 minutes can help alleviate constipation as well, which is another cause of bloating.
Don’t Miss: Pyrosis During Pregnancy
Youre Eating Too Many Gas
What you’ve eaten during the day, and your meals leading up to your pain, should be the first thing you look at when you feel bloated. If you’re eating too many foods that form gas think: cabbage, beans, lentils and Brussels sprouts bloating can be soon to follow. Very fatty and salty foods, especially processed foods, can also contribute to these symptoms,” Sassos adds.
High FODMAP foods , including apples, garlic, onions, beans and cashews, canalso make many feel bloated over time. FODMAPs are a group of small-chain carbohydrates that are tough to digest, and Sassos says that those dealing with IBS may actually benefit from switching to what’s known as a low-FODMAP diet. Unless you’ve already been diagnosed with IBS and have discussed your diet with a care provider, it’s best to talk to a registered dietician before you change your diet.
Does Drinking Water Reduce Bloating
Water can help beat the bloat, yes. This is because water is an essential part of a healthy digestive system.
Have you ever been dehydrated and as a result, felt sluggish and just plain blah? This is because water helps to reduce the sodium level in your body, which is often a contributor to bloat.
Water is also crucial if you are planning to add fiber to your diet. Keeping the digestive system moving is reliant on good ole H2O.
You May Like: Align Probiotic Directions For Use
Do Probiotics Help A Bloated Stomach
probioticcan help reducebloatingprobiotics can help reducebloatingIf your pain is severe and persistent, or with any symptoms of infection, fever, or rectal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
What To Take For Bloating
When women are passing through the menopausal transition, various symptoms may evolve that they never had prior issues with due to drastic hormonal fluctuations, including symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Discover more about what to take for bloating to finally liberate your guts and allow for enjoyable, well-digested eating.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Sour Stomach
Read Also: Stomach Virus Bloating
Having A Food Intolerance
Typically, if someone is feels bloated, it is because of their food or water intake, but even if you havent eaten too much, you may have eaten the wrong thing. Certain food intolerances or sensitives to spicy or acidic foods can cause the gastrointestinal tract to have a more difficult time than usual.
An undiagnosed intolerance to foods can cause a lot of bloating, Hoffman said. The body is trying to break down the foods for the body to use, and a lot of gas can be the result of that work.
If you experience a lot of bloating, try keeping a food journal to track what you eat, when you notice bloating and the amount of discomfort you experience.
Youre Swallowing Too Much Air
Inadvertently swallowing too much air when you eat or drink, a condition known as aerophagia, may cause bloating and belching, Dr. Fisher says, So drinking through a straw or having carbonated beverages are things that tend to contribute to upper GI bloating.
Eating too fast and chewing gum may also cause you to ingest too much air, adds Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian in the Good Housekeeping Institute. Try your best to slow down when you eat, properly chew your food, and make sure youre staying hydrated throughout the day, she says.
You May Like: Tramadol Constipation Relief
Does Bloating Cause Weight Gain
Bloating can cause weight gain, but typically its going to be a pound or two at most. Lets look at this further. If belly bloating causes you to gain weight, it will be because youve eaten too much, and your digestive system has some work to do.
Of course, if you consistently overeat, then you will gain weight. Looking for weight loss hacks? Watch my video for the best tips ever!
If your bloat is due to something like PMS or too much sodium causing you to feel like youve added a few pounds, its highly likely after a few hours the weight will be gone.
How Can Bloating Be Prevented
To deal with bloating, you may consider discussing your diet and eating habits with your doctor or a registered dietitian. If you can identify the food or eating behavior that causes belly bloat, you can effectively prevent future bloating. To help prevent bloating:
- Avoid eating super large meals in one sitting.
- Eat slowly while seated.
- Avoid foods that tend to make you gassy.
- Be mindful of how much fiber you eat.
- Avoid bubbly beverages.
You May Like: Can Multivitamins Cause Blood In Stool
How Is Bloat Treated
Veterinarians start by treating the shock. Once the dog is stable, hes taken into surgery. We do two procedures. One is to deflate the stomach and turn it back to its correct position. If the stomach wall is damaged, that piece is removed. Second, because up to 90 percent of affected dogs will have this condition again, we tack the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent it from twisting.
What Does Inflammation Have To Do With Bloating
Inflammation has a LOT to do with bloating. So much, in fact, that Ive dedicated a video to the topic, which you can watch here.
Ive also written several posts about inflammation because it really can wreak havoc on your health.
- Take a look at 18 Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods to see some of the foods best for helping to reduce inflammation and bloat.
- On the other end of the coin, youll find 10 Foods that Cause Inflammation. Find out what to avoid and why.
- If you need help with all of this, start off on the right foot with my 5-Day Anti-Inflammatory Diet Meal Plan.
I hope you find some of this information helping! If you are struggling with the discomforts of bloating, relook at the 10 simple tips Ive outlined above and try them out. Even bit by bit is fine.
The more steps you take, the better youll feel. Guaranteed!
This post contains affiliate links to products I use regularly and highly recommend.
Read Also: Acid Reflux Peanut Butter
When Bloating And Gas Is Not Normal
In most cases, bloating and gas are just regular parts of the digestive process. Good bacteria in your gut ferment foods that are not fully digested in your small intestine.When you eat too many gas-producing foodsor too much fiber and not enough waterits normal to experience some abdominal pain, gas, and the distension that makes your tummy feel full and tight. Gas can also be caused by swallowing too much air, which can happen if you chew gum, eat too quickly, or drink through a straw.
If youre curious about how to get rid of gas and bloating, start by drinking plenty of water, eating smaller meals slowly, and ditching straws and gum. As youll see, eating foods that reduce gas, and avoiding certain foods that cause it can also help. However, there are two underlying gut issues that you should get tested for if your digestive symptoms are extreme and dont respond to these lifestyle measures.
You May Like: Can I Take Milk Of Magnesia On An Empty Stomach
Can Bloating Be Prevented
To keep your digestive system working well, follow a healthy diet and eat at least 30g of fibre every day. Cut down on processed and fatty foods, and drink less alcohol. Drink plenty of water and take any medicines as directed by your doctor.
Dont overeat, and try to eat more slowly. Eating regularly will help to prevent digestive problems.
Regular exercise is also important for your gut because it strengthens the muscles in your tummy and stimulates the digestive system to push food through. It also helps with stress, which affects the nerves in the digestive system and can slow down digestion.
Smoking is very bad for your digestion. If you smoke, try to quit now.
Recommended Reading: Diet Pills While Pregnant
Avoid Foods That Cause Gas
What you eat often plays a major role in the development of gas and bloating.
The foods that lead to gas can vary from person to person, but they typically contain carbohydrates and include sugars, starches, or fiber.
Common foods that cause gas
A lot of the so-called gassy foods, or foods that have a high potential for producing intestinal gas, carry many nutritional benefits.
Therefore, it is important to accurately identify the foods that your system has the most difficulty with rather than to willy-nilly cut out an entire group of foods, such as vegetables, because of their gassy reputation.
Use a food diary and keep a careful record of what you eat and whether or not you experience gas afterward. You may find that your body can handle smaller amounts of gassy food without a problem. Plus, you can enjoy the foods best for keeping gas away instead.
Foods that may lead to gas include:
- Beans
- Lentils and peas
Low FODMAP diet
Researchers identified groups of compounds in foods called FODMAPs that commonly contribute to gas and bloating in people with irritable bowel syndrome .
IBS is a condition in which the colon is sensitive to certain triggers and leads to abdominal pain and digestive symptoms, including gas and bloating.
The low-FODMAP diet for IBS developed by researchers swaps high FODMAP foods for low FODMAP foods to try to reduce gut fermentation that may contributes to IBS symptoms.
Lactose intolerance
Fiber adjustments
Remedies And Treatments For Bloating
Once a cause of bloating is established, the symptom can be treated. Depending on your doctorâs findings, he or she may suggest one of the following remedies for bloating:
Eating Slowly
Eating too quickly causes you to swallow more air, which can lead to gas and bloating. Eating slowly can help reduce bloating. Additionally, slowing your eating can make you feel full, faster, helping you avoid overeating, which can lead to bloating.
Changing Your Diet
If you notice a trend in certain foods causing you to bloat, try reducing or eliminating those foods from your diet. Foods that commonly cause bloating are wheat, beans, lentils, garlic, onions, and asparagus. Milk and dairy foods can also cause bloating, as some people have a hard time digesting a sugar they contain called lactose.
Antacids
Antacids can reduce bloating by allowing gas to pass more easily through your digestive tract. Do note, however, that antacids are only effective for bloating caused by food.
Antidepressants
Researchers have found that certain antidepressants can affect the way your body reacts to gas, keeping it from overreacting to its presence.
Less Fiber
Eating too much fiber is one of the most common reasons for bloating. Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet, but it can cause a lot of gas in your digestive system because your body cannot digest it. The key with fiber is to eat it in moderation. Foods high in fiber include beans, lentils, broccoli, whole wheat, apples, berries, and quinoa.
Also Check: Bovine Colostrum For Leaky Gut
You Could Be Constipated
Constipation is one of the most common GI problems, according to Johns Hopkins Health, and it affects women more than men. Along with your period, not drinking enough water, not eating enough fiber and taking some medications may make you constipated. The lower GI is where you tend to feel very distended, saysDeborah Fisher, M.D., a gastroenterologist and associate professor of medicine at the Duke University School of Medicine. Constipation may make you feel bloated or like you need to pass gas. Cramps are also common, and if you’re feeling bloated at the same time, you might resolve both by making a few trips to the restroom.