Bloating - causes and remedies

Bloating is when your stomach feels too full and tight. It is often caused by gas and can be extremely uncomfortable.

Below, we have covered some of the main causes of bloating and how to combat it.

What causes bloating?

Bloating Bloating can result from a number of different things, including:

• Eating too much
• Eating too quickly and swallowing excessive air as a result
• Consuming gas-producing foods, such as cruciferous vegetables, beans, legumes, and fermented foods
• Traveling and being out of routine
• Living a sedentary lifestyle
• Certain medications
• Wearing poorly fitted dentures causing you to swallow more air when you eat
• Hormonal changes in women
• Digestive disorders, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), (Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Kidney or liver problems

How to combat bloating

Below are some tips to help reduce the risk of feeling bloated. Consider trying one or two of these remedies and, if these don't work, move on to a few other options and see if they work better for you.

• Eat more slowly and mindfully
• Reduce your consumption of gassy foods
• Eat more potassium-rich foods and fewer sodium-rich foods
• Participate in gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga
• Speak to your healthcare provider about taking a daily probiotic supplement or digestive enzyme supplement
• Drink herbal teas, such as peppermint or ginger tea
• Ensure you don't have any food intolerances or sensitivities that could be contributing to your bloating
• Ask your doctor if you can change medications

Consult your healthcare provider if your bloating persists.