Why you’re bloated (+ how to fix it)🤰🏻
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Eating too fast
Eating gas-producing foods: Some foods, such as beans, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage), and fatty foods, can cause gas. This gas can build up in your intestines and make you feel bloated.
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Gasproducing foods
Swallowing air: Talking while eating, chewing gum, and drinking carbonated beverages can all cause you to swallow air. This air can get trapped in your intestines and cause bloating.
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Drinking carbonated beverages
Food intolerances: If you have an intolerance to certain foods, such as lactose or gluten, your body may have difficulty digesting them. This can lead to gas, bloating, and other digestive symptoms.
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Lactose intolerance
Digestive problems: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause bloating.
Hormonal changes: Women may experience bloating more often during their menstrual cycle or pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes that can affect digestion.
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Menstrual cycle
Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and pain relievers, can cause bloating as a side effect.
If you’re concerned about bloating, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to try to relieve the discomfort:
Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
Avoid gas-producing foods.
Don’t swallow air.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Exercise regularly.
Take over-the-counter gas medication, such as simethicone.
If you find that you’re bloating frequently, it may be helpful to keep a food diary to track what you eat and how you feel afterward. This can help you identify any triggers that might be contributing to your bloating.