Reasons You are Bloated

Bloating is often attributed to pregnancy and the hormonal changes associated with it. However, it is as common in men as in women and can happen to anyone. If you regularly consume processed foods, you may end up damaging your metabolism to a point where seeking treatment from a gastroenterologist would be necessary. Even joining a weight loss program may not offset the damage, then. Eating quickly can also cause bloating and weight gain. Here are some reasons why you might feel bloated all the time.

Because you have a sedentary job

Working at the desk all day, without any physical activity, is bound to make you feel bloated. Lack of physical activity impedes the normal functioning of the GI tract. Not drinking enough water while working all day can also cause bloating. Sodas and caffeine can further drain your water reserves, so keep a water bottle handy. Take short breaks to stretch or take strolls and start a weight loss program.

You have Digestive Problems

Flatulence is a common problem, and experiencing it about 10 times a day is perfectly normal. Common reasons for flatulence include food choices that promote wind problems, including pulses, cabbage, broccoli, apples. These foods take time to digest and release sulfur gas. Bloating followed by little, hard stool could also mean constipation. Incorporate oats, seeds, cereals, vegetable skins and other laxatives to your diet. Doing light exercises is also recommended.

You Suffer from Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is both a genetic disease and a condition where the body’s lactase production is low. If you have a natural aversion for milk and other dairy products, you most likely have lactose intolerance. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and bloating. Try switching over to lactose-free dairy foods, but do not self-diagnose. See a certified GI practitioner to confirm if you have lactose intolerance.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a common functional disorder of the gut, and could be one of the primary reasons you are bloated. Experts suggest that people with IBS have over-sensitive guts and hence it is susceptible to bloating. In those with IBS, bloating can increase towards the end of the day, and hence seriously disturb one’s social life. Avoid having oats, muesli, whole wheat bread, cereal bars and the like.

You could have Coeliac Disease

Cutting out gluten from your diet can not only help with your weight loss program, but avoid bloating. Gluten is found in wheat, rye, barley or foods they’re present in, including even some sauces and gravies. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder, where the peptides produced from gluten cause chronic inflammation. This damages the lining of the small intestine, and makes absorbing nutrients from food, difficult. This also causes anemia and osteoporosis. TCM techniques like acupuncture are beneficial in Coeliac disease.

Ovarian Cancer

Bloating isn’t just a problem; it’s an important symptom of other, much more serious problems. If it persists and is followed by abdominal pain, it could be ovarian cancer. Consult your GP while there is time. The symptoms are similar to IBS, and hence it often tends to get misdiagnosed.