Being bloated is very uncomfortable. One minute, you are okay. Then the next minute, you feel like you have swallowed a balloon. It can even be painful. 

We all deal with it occasionally. However, being consistently bloated is your body needing a little attention. And now, can we discuss what actually happens behind the scenes? Here is what gastroenterology specialists claim are the most frequent culprits.

You Took in More Air Without Knowing

Yes, you breathe in all day long. But sometimes you swallow more air when:

• You eat in a hurry
• Chew gum,
• Drink with a straw
• Talk with your mouth while chewing (we all do it).

The surplus air must go somewhere, and most frequently it puffs out of you in the stomach. Next time, eat slowly, and your stomach will be at peace.

Your Gut Bacteria are at a Party

Your digestive system hosts many bacteria. And they are busy. They help break down certain foods in your gut. The catch? That process can create gas. Lots of it.

Examples of foods known to elicit that internal fermentation include:

• Beans
• Onions
• Cabbage
• Artificial sweeteners
• High-fiber meals. 

It is not a bad thing, though; your bacteria are only doing their job. But the outcome can be that you look and feel bloated. Waikato gastroenterology clinics perform tests like endoscopy to identify the root cause of persistent bloating.

You May Be Allergic to Some Foods

Food intolerances are elusive. You can eat the same food in your entire life and not have any problems. But one day your body will say, ‘’No, not today.’’ The most frequent food triggers include:

• Lactose 
• Gluten 
• Fructose 
• A category of fermentable carbohydrates.

Keep a food diary. This can help you determine whether a particular food is causing an uproar.

Stress can Literally Blow Up Your Stomach

You know how that knot in your stomach feels when you are overwhelmed. Stress also slows down your stomach. How?

• It slows down your digestion
• Narrows your gut muscles
• Alters your gut bacteria. 

The result? Bloating. In fact, a big dramatic one, you will be like, ‘’I need to go lie down.’’ Your gut is signalling you that your stress is getting out of hand. 

Constipation is Playing a Role

Everything slows down when your bowels aren’t moving regularly. Gas accumulates behind the feces. As a result, pressure begins to increase. Do you have fewer bowel movements and feel bloated? Constipation is the villain in disguise. The solution is:

• Water
• Fiber
• Movement.

They all suit your gut.

It Could be a Health Problem You Can Not Afford to Overlook

In most cases, bloating is mild and harmless. However, it is serious if it is persistent and painful. It may be accompanied by:

• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Bowel habit changes.

In such a case, it is important to visit a gastroenterology expert. Bloating can be caused by conditions such as:

• IBS
• Celiac disease
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth 
• Ovarian problems.

Final Thoughts

Bloating isn’t random. It is the body making a statement that something is not right. It could be the stress, a particular food, or something more. If you don’t know what is happening, visit a gastroenterologist.