#166 6 Reasons That Might Be Causing Your Bloating

I HATE feeling bloated. It happens to a lot of people and over the years I’ve done a fair bit of research as to what causes it. My issue is mostly around number one and I have found that a lot of other people have the same problem, but aren’t aware. Here are some possible reasons for your bloating. But if you’ve tried everything and you’re still getting bloated, it’s best to go and get checked out!

1. Food Allergies / Dysbiosis

This is my main reason for bloating, and it could be yours too. Any type of food allergy, whether it is lactose, gluten or something else, will cause problems in your digestive tract and most likely lead to bloating. I have a range of intolerances, even to some healthy foods. If you think you’re intolerant to something, either get it checked out, or eliminate it from your diet and see if this makes a difference.

I have been diagnosed with dysbiosis, which is basically an imbalance of the good and bad bacteria in your gut. Often people have this but just aren’t aware. It causes bloating, plus a range of other issues. Read up about it if you have tried absolutely everything but still don’t seem to be getting anywhere.

2. High Fiber Foods Such As Beans And Lentils

High fiber foods are great for your digestion, plus they’re super tasty and healthy. But these types of foods contain indigestible carbohydrates, which can lead to uncomfortable bloating and gas. And if you have digestive issues like me, eating too many beans and lentils can cause real problems.

3. Chewing Gum & Drinking Through A Straw

Both of these habits can cause you to gulp in excess air (weird right) and can leave you feeling bloated. Stop chewing gum (it contains sugar!) and avoid drinking through a straw.

4. Drinking Soda

The bubbles found in soda and sparkling drinks can cause your stomach to swell. And diet soda is even worse since artificial sweeteners can’t be digested. Ditch the soda altogether!

5. Eating Lots Of Packaged Foods

Packaged foods contain HUGE amounts of sodium, even foods that you wouldn’t expect such as cereals and sweet sauces. High sodium causes your body to retain water and can cause water bloating. Avoid packaged foods as much as you can, not only for your bloating, but for your general health!

6. You Don’t Drink Enough Water

Your body needs water to function properly. If it doesn’t get enough, it will start storing water, much like it does when you eat lots of sodium. This can lead to water bloating. So drinking MORE water will actually help you reduce this type of bloating!

Article written by Rachael Attard

Rachael is an Australian born certified personal trainer and nutritionist who holds a Bachelor degree in Science.

After struggling for years to find an exercise and diet program that is tailored to women striving for lean and toned body with no bulk she designed her Lean Legs Program. This program is tailored to each body type and focused on helping women get toned but feminine bodies, without getting bulky.

Her mission is to empower women and help them stay in shape in a healthy and balanced way.