Bloating, uncomfortable and embarrassing, is due to intestinal gas that accumulates in the intestine. They usually appear after a heavy meal, however they can have other causes. Let’s do a check in.
- Bloating is due to an accumulation of gas in the stomach, this overproduction can have several causes.
- There is no miracle treatment but some can improve the comfort of life.
Frequent and unpleasant, even painful bloating corresponds to the feeling of a swollen belly. Also called “abdominal meteorism”, this phenomenon is explained by an accumulation of gas in the stomach or intestine. This overproduction of gas can have various causes, mainly related to lifestyle.
Intestinal gases: an inappropriate diet
A diet that is too fatty, too sweet or too spicy, as well as frequent consumption of coffee, carbonated drinks or alcohol, can contribute to the production of intestinal gas. Some nitrogen-rich foods, such as beans, Brussels sprouts, or starches, cause bacteria to produce more intestinal gas. Bacterial breakdown of dietary fiber and protein is also the cause of a lot of gas.
In addition, some people suffer from lactase deficiency, which prevents them from digesting lactose. This lactose intolerance can lead to increased intestinal fermentation when drinking milk, which can irritate the intestine and lead to bloating.
Aerophagia, stress and constipation can create bloating
Aerophagia occurs when you eat or drink too quickly, or consume too much chewing gum or carbonated drinks. The result: we swallow too much air, which can lead to gas in the stomach, digestive pain, hiccups and belching.
Stress and anxiety also act on transit: by causing the intestine to contract, they cause bloating. Constipation is also one of the main causes of flatulence and bloating. During constipation, the accumulation of stool in the large intestine prolongs and intensifies the fermentation process which produces more gas.
Finally, in addition to inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), certain medications can cause intestinal problems as well as bloating. It should be noted that pregnancy is a time when the developing uterus presses on the intestine, which disrupts transit and can also lead to flatulence.
3 tips to fight bloating
While there is no panacea for bloating and gas, fortunately several treatments can reduce discomfort and increase quality of life.
For example, activated charcoal helps immobilize gases and toxins. However, it can interfere with the absorption of certain other molecules, so it should not be taken at the same time as other treatments.
Digestive dressings may also be recommended. They are usually based on clay, simethicone or dimeticone, and have “anti-foaming” properties which prevent the formation of gas.
Finally, consider more natural remedies such as essential oils of fennel or peppermint, provided you use them following the recommendations of a health professional.
If you suffer from frequent bloating or any other digestive disorder, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice and consult your doctor.
