Understanding and Managing Stomach Bloating: What You Need to Know

Experiencing a swollen stomach? There's more than one reason for this sensation. It could be temporary, like after a large meal, or a more persistent issue. Here's what to know about why bloating happens and how you can address it.

Constipation

Maimonides famously said that constipation is the mother of all diseases. An imbalance in the body’s intake and toxin expulsion can lead to diseases, and symptoms such as abdominal bloating. In addition to a balanced diet, massages can help. Dr. Judy Ne, a gastroenterology expert, suggests: "Apply pressure in the colon area, moving from the lower right to the upper abdomen and down to the left. This follows the path of the digestive system."

Bacteria and Fungi

Our gut is home to bacteria, parasites, and fungi. They usually coexist peacefully, but an imbalance can cause bloating. Naturopath Yigal Kotin explains: "Helicobacter pylori is a common bacterium alongside parasites like Giardia, detectable via stool tests. These organisms are everywhere, and we may ingest them. When the body's immune system weakens, these organisms can become problematic. Candida, a fungus naturally balanced with other microbes in our system, can grow unchecked and cause symptoms like gas, bloating, or changes in bowel habits."

Imbalanced Stomach Acidity

Kotin adds that an imbalanced stomach acidity is a potential cause of bloating. "Excess gas often indicates low stomach acidity, impairing food breakdown and slowing intestinal movement. This can be due to antibiotics, prolonged fasting, stress, anorexia, or medications. High acidity leads to stomach pain, diarrhea, or heartburn."

Thyroid Gland Imbalance

Persistently bloated? Consider thyroid function tests. Kotin explains: "The thyroid governs metabolism and digestion. Hypothyroidism lowers stomach acidity, reducing enzyme secretion and slowing digestion, leading to incomplete food breakdown. Stress, lack of sleep, certain medications, aging, and poor diet contribute to low enzymes, leaving food to ferment in the gut."

Liver Issues

According to Kotin, the liver plays a key role in digestion, primarily by secreting bile for fat breakdown. A malfunctioning liver that poorly secretes bile can lead to bloating.

Lack of Movement

Modern life is full of sitting—whether at a desk or in a car—which weakens intestinal movement. More activity and hydration can improve gut motility.

Dietary Habits

Your eating amount and timing affect your stomach. Overeating or late meals can cause bloating. "Evening digestion slows, so large or late meals, especially for people with weak systems, exacerbate the problem." Avoid certain food combinations like fruit after meals or pasta with meat. Some are sensitive to dairy, gluten, processed foods, or sugar, so notice your body’s reactions to meals to manage discomfort.