Bloating: What it is, Symptoms, Causes & Home Remedies

April 25, 2023

Reviewed by Experts

Have you ever felt uncomfortably full or swollen in your abdomen after a meal? This sensation is called bloating.

Bloating is a common digestive problem that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by various factors such as diet, stress, or medical conditions.

In this blog, we will discuss what bloating is, its symptoms, causes, and home remedies to reduce it.

What is Bloating?

Bloating is the feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen. The reasons for stomach bloating may be the filling of the gastrointestinal tract with gas or air. Bloating can be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and rumbling noises in the stomach.^[1]

In some cases, bloating can be a sign of a more serious condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease.^[1]

Bloating Symptoms

Bloating symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common ones include^[1]:

Feeling full or swollen in the abdomen
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Increased gas production
Constipation or diarrhoea
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue or weakness

What Causes Bloating?

The possible causes of abdominal bloating are various and complicated, thus intestinal gas production and transit, gut microflora, and hypersensitivity of the patient’s gut might be the factors for the symptom generation.^[2]

There are many reasons for stomach bloating, some of the most common causes are:

1. Digestive disorders

Bloating can be a symptom of various digestive disorders such as IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).^[1]

2. Food intolerance

Some people are intolerant to certain foods such as lactose or gluten. When they consume these foods, it can lead to bloating and other digestive symptoms.^[1]

3. Overeating

Eating large meals or eating too quickly can cause bloating. When you eat too much food, it puts pressure on the digestive system, which can cause gas to build up in the stomach.

4. Swallowing air

When you eat or drink, you can unintentionally swallow air, which can lead to bloating.^[1] This can happen when you eat too quickly, drink carbonated beverages, or chew gum.

5. Constipation

When you are constipated, it can cause bloating and discomfort in the abdomen.^[1] Constipation can be caused by a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, or certain medications.

Home Remedies for Bloating

Fortunately, there are several home remedies that can help reduce bloating. Here are some of the best bloating remedies^[2]:

1. Drink plenty of water

Drinking enough water can help flush out excess sodium and reduce bloating. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

2. Avoid carbonated drinks

Certain food choices or eating behaviours can lead to abdominal bloating. Carbonated drinks can increase gas in the stomach, which can lead to bloating.^[2]

3. Eat slowly

Eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly can help prevent swallowing air, which can lead to abdominal bloating.^[2]
Further, consuming smaller, frequent meals helps you avoid bloating.

4. Avoid gas-producing foods

Some foods such as beans, onions, and broccoli can cause gas to build up in the stomach, which can lead to bloating.^[2] Avoid these foods or eat them in moderation.

5. Exercise

Regular exercise can help improve digestion and reduce bloating. Try going for a walk or doing some gentle yoga.

6. Try herbal remedies

Some herbs such as ginger and peppermint can help reduce bloating. Try drinking ginger tea or taking peppermint supplements. Other bloating remedies include chamomile tea, turmeric, and fennel.^[2]

7. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion and reduce bloating. You can get probiotics from foods such as yogurt or kefir, or take probiotic supplements.

FAQs

1. What is bloating?
Bloating is a common digestive problem that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by various factors such as diet, stress, or medical conditions.

2. What are the reasons for stomach bloating?
Intestinal gas production and transit, gut microflora, and hypersensitivity of the patient’s gut might be the factors for the symptom generation.

3. How to get rid of stomach bloating?
Drinking plenty of water, avoiding carbonated beverages, eating slowly, avoiding certain foods like broccoli and onions, exercises and herbal remedies may help you get rid of abdominal bloating.

4. What are the herbal home remedies for bloating?
Some herbs such as ginger and peppermint can help reduce bloating. Try drinking ginger tea or taking peppermint supplements. Other bloating remedies include chamomile tea, turmeric, and fennel.

Conclusion

Bloating is a common digestive problem that can cause discomfort and distress. Its symptoms can vary from person to person, but the feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen is common. Fortunately, there are several home remedies that can help reduce bloating, such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding carbonated beverages, eating slowly, and avoiding certain foods. In addition, herbal remedies and probiotics can also help reduce bloating.

However, if home remedies are not effective in reducing bloating symptoms, seeking medical treatment may be necessary. If you experience bloating, it’s important to pay attention to your symptoms and make dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage it.

Disclaimer: This article is from an informational perspective only. Please consult a professional medical practitioner before implementing any dietary or lifestyle modifications into everyday routine.