If you have ever experienced bloating, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Here's what you need to know about stomach bloating and what causes it.

What is bloating?

Bloating is a feeling of fullness or tightness in the stomach, caused by gas buildup in the intestines. Gas can be released when you burp or pass wind. Bloating can also be caused by food intolerances, constipation, or overeating.

What causes stomach bloating?

There are many possible causes of stomach bloating, including eating too much at one time and swallowing air while eating or drinking. This can happen when you talk and eat at the same time. There are also certain medical conditions that can cause stomach bloating, like constipation. This could be a sign of a more serious issue, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, or gastroparesis.

How can you prevent stomach bloating?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent stomach bloating, such as:

• Avoid carbonated drinks. Carbonation only adds to stomach bloating and a general feeling of malaise in some people. If soda pop bothers you, avoid it.
• Don't smoke. Smoking is not good for you for a number of reasons, but it can also lead to issues with bloating as the process of inhaling can introduce additional gases to the stomach.
• Eat slowly. When you eat too quickly, you are not only gulping down food but also gulping down air, which can lead to stomach bloating.
• Avoid 'gassy' foods. Some foods are known to cause gas, such as beans, cabbage, and fried foods. You can avoid eating them entirely or you can try an over-the-counter product designed to combat gassiness.
• Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can help you digest your food and avoid bloating.

If you're frequently bloated, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Are probiotics good for bloating?

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your gut health. Some studies have shown that taking probiotics may help to reduce bloating and other symptoms of IBS. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

How do you know if bloating is serious?

While bloating is usually not serious, if you experience severe or persistent bloating, you should see your doctor in order to rule out any serious medical problems. The bloating may simply be a symptom of a larger medical issue. Your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist, a type of stomach doctor, for further testing and treatment.

Stomach bloating may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can be incredibly painful for many people. See your physician for more information about bloating.