what causes bloated stomach
What causes bloated stomach
Quick Scoop
A bloated stomach is usually caused by gas, constipation, or eating in a way that makes your gut trap air or slow down digestion. It can also happen with food intolerances, IBS, celiac disease, or around your period.[1][2]Main causes
- Gas buildup: This is the most common cause and can come from swallowing air, fizzy drinks, or foods that ferment in the gut. [2][1]
- Constipation: Stool sitting longer in the colon can increase gas and make your belly feel tight or swollen. [3][2]
- Food triggers: Dairy, beans, lentils, cabbage, onions, garlic, and foods high in fructose or other hard-to-digest carbs can cause bloating. [8][2]
- Eating habits: Eating too fast, overeating, or eating lots of fatty or processed foods can make bloating worse. [1][8]
- Digestive conditions: IBS, celiac disease, GERD, SIBO, and delayed stomach emptying can all lead to bloating. [2][3][1]
- Hormonal changes: Some people notice bloating around their period because of fluid retention and hormone shifts. [6][1]
When it may be serious
Most bloating is not dangerous, but bloating that does not go away, gets worse, or comes with weight loss, severe pain, vomiting, blood in the stool, or a hard swollen abdomen should be checked by a clinician. Persistent bloating can sometimes signal a more serious problem, including ovarian cancer or abdominal tumors.[3][1][2]What may help
- Eat more slowly and avoid swallowing extra air. [8][1]
- Cut back on fizzy drinks and large meals. [1][8]
- Watch for trigger foods such as dairy, beans, cabbage, onions, and sweeteners like sorbitol. [2][8]
- Increase fiber gradually and drink enough water if constipation is part of the problem. [8][2]
- If it happens often, track patterns with meals, bowel habits, and your cycle. [3][2]
TL;DR: A bloated stomach is most often from gas, constipation, or food-related digestion issues, but ongoing or painful bloating deserves medical attention.
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