Bloating is very common and can be the result of trapped wind, a large meal or menstruation. In most cases bloating causes an extended stomach that can be painful, along with a ‘stuffed’ feeling.
Bloating is a broad term and can refer to excess solids, liquids or gasses in the digestive system.
Typically, bloating is not the symptom of any serious medical conditions. Usually it is a sign of an intolerance to a food or ingredient in your diet.
However, if the bloating does not subside a visit to the GP is advised. Bloating has been linked to the following:
• Various infections
• Crohn’s disease
• Bowel or bladder blockages
• Cancer
• IBS
• Inflammation
• Liver disease
Likelihood is, if your doctor gives you the all clear or your bloating isn’t overly recurrent, that dietary factors are to blame. Foods that are high in fibre tend to be the culprits for many. However, ingesting them more frequently can lead to less bloating in the long run. Foods that can cause bloating can include:
• Whole grains
• Beans
• Lentils
• Prunes, apricots, apples, peaches
• Brussel sprouts, onion, cauliflower, broccoli
• Dairy products
• Salty foods
• Fizzy drinks
• Artificial sweeteners
• Fatty foods