6 Everyday Habits That Are Making You Bloated
Photo: Pond5
Bloating, or the accumulation of excess air and gas in the digestive tract, is often caused by more than just the foods you eat. Certain everyday habits could be silently contributing to your discomfort. Dr. David T. Rubin, a fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology, notes that bloating is one of the most common stomach complaints. The trend of taking “bloating selfies” to document fluctuating waistlines throughout the day has become popular among patients, showing the severity of the issue.
Before blaming specific foods, it’s essential to consider six less obvious contributors to bloating that might be affecting how you feel.
Table of Contents
6 Things Secretly Making You Bloated
Photo: Pond5
1. You Love Chewing Gum
Chewing gum excessively can lead to swallowing air, causing bloating. Additionally, many gums contain sugar alcohols, known to induce gas and bloating. Even sugar-free options generally contain sorbitol, which can exacerbate stomach issues.
2. You’re Scarfing Your Food
Eating hurriedly can hamper the digestive process, as digestion begins with chewing. Mindful, slower eating aids in the breakdown and initial digestion of food, reducing the stress on the stomach and minimizing the intake of excess air.
3. You Love Drinking Through a Straw
Drinking through a straw can introduce air into the stomach before the liquid, leading to potential discomfort. To avoid unnecessary bloating, it’s best to opt for sipping directly from a cup or bottle.
4. You’re Snoring Up a Storm
Experiencing bloating in the morning could be related to snoring or mouth-breathing during sleep, with sleep apnea sufferers particularly prone to morning bloating. Seeking guidance from a sleep specialist may help alleviate this issue.
5. You’re Feasting on Fiber
Rapidly increasing fiber intake can result in significant bloating. Gradually incorporating fiber-rich foods and ensuring they come from whole, unprocessed sources can help prevent digestive discomfort commonly associated with sudden fiber intake.
6. You’re Stressed 24/7
Stress can disturb the digestive system, leading to gas and bloating. Managing stress through cognitive behavior therapy or relaxation techniques has been shown to alleviate such symptoms.
Originally published August 2015. Updated January 2018.
Read More
The Low-FODMAP Diet: Your Solution to a Healthier Gut?
9 All-Natural Sources of Healthy Probiotics
Is It All in Your Gut? The Sleep-Gut Connection
