Bloating - A Detailed Explanation

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The abnormal increase in the size of the stomach accompanied by pain in the abdomen and a tight waistline are symptoms of bloating. Other signs of bloating include hydration or even over-hydration. These symptoms don’t develop overnight; they establish over the years if they are ignored with other mild infections. Also, less water consumption and high sodium intake can also lead to abdominal bloating.

Fast foods, foods containing high amounts of carbohydrates, empty calorie foods, chewing gum, caffeine, and even alcohol intake increases the chances of bloating.

During abdominal bloating, one may experience chest pain, vomiting sensation, diarrhea, changes in abdominal functions or constipation. Dark or even bloody stools are likely and one may experience difficulty in chewing or swallowing food. Other signs include difficulty in digestion, gas after eating, sudden weight loss, fatigue, frequent lack of breath, discomfort in the stomach and pain.

When the gas does not pass, it is built up in the stomach and leads to bloating. So the best way is to ensure that the gas that is blocked in the stomach gets out as flatulence or through regular bowel movements. Apart from food, smoking, stress or even other diseases can cause bloating.

The best way to ensure that the abdominal bloating is in control is through careful selection of diet, since it is related very closely. It is recommended that you avoid beans, cauliflower, cabbage, candies, carbonated drinks, broccoli and other foods that are carbohydrate-related.

It is also observed that while consuming food, as a nervous habit, one can swallow air along with the food which results in lack of air in the stomach. So it is advised that you eat slowly and carefully, and chew properly. Overeating, lactose intolerance and abnormal bowel movements can also be pointed as possible causes. Ascites, tumors or cancer are other causes of gas. Although they are very rare, it’s still good to be cautious and take adequate prevention.

It’s also important to consume lots of fiber and water to maintain the regular movement of bowels. This is because the lack of it can result in heartburn sensations. To treat them, apart from dietary changes, one can take medicines prescribed by the doctor. Enzymes and antacids are the safest options that help a great deal in breaking the sugars in the food.

If you don't want to take medicines, there are other solutions like walking, exercises, herbal tea, coffee and chocolates. Avoiding high fat meals, foods with high starch and extreme hot/cold foods be of a lot of help.

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