Bloating

What is bloating?

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

What foods cause bloating?

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

How to stop bloating?

Sometimes you cannot stop bloating, it is a natural occurrence. However, if you suffer with bloating regularly it may be time to look at your diet and eliminate certain foods that could be causing you issues.
If your bloating persists and/or is painful it is time to visit your GP to eliminate any serious conditions.