There are many reasons why you might feel bloated. The most common culprit is excess gas in your digestive system. This gas can build up for a variety of reasons, including:
- Swallowing air while eating or drinking
- Eating certain foods, such as beans, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage), and dairy products if you're lactose intolerant
- Drinking carbonated beverages
- Chewing gum
- Smoking
- Constipation
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Food intolerance
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Bloating can also be caused by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy. In some cases, bloating may be a symptom of a more serious medical condition, such as ovarian cancer or uterine fibroids.
If you're concerned about bloating, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. However, there are a number of things you can do to reduce bloating on your own, such as:
- Eating smaller meals more frequently
- Avoiding foods that trigger your bloating
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Getting regular exercise
- Managing stress
