How to stop stomach bloating

Bloating is a feeling of fullness or visible abdominal distension. Swallowed air, gas from digestion, constipation, large meals and changes in eating habits are common contributors. Recurrent symptoms can occur with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Food Intolerance or Lactose Intolerance. Coeliac Disease, Giardiasis and Helicobacter Pylori Infection are other conditions a clinician may consider when bloating comes with diarrhoea, weight change, nausea, pain or altered bowel habits. The symptom alone does not identify its cause.

Eat slowly, chew thoroughly and avoid gulping drinks or chewing gum. Reduce fizzy drinks and notice whether particular meals, beans or sweeteners worsen symptoms. Gentle walking can support bowel movement. If constipation is present, increase fluids and fibre gradually; a sudden large fibre increase may create more gas. Keep a diary of foods, bowel movements, pain and timing for a clinician. Avoid broad food restriction without guidance; Nutrition Counselling can help test a balanced plan and protect against missed nutrients.

Book an appointment if bloating keeps returning, affects eating or sleep, or comes with ongoing diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting, pain or unexplained weight loss. Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a swollen hard abdomen, repeated vomiting, blood in stool, black stool, fainting or inability to pass stool or gas. A clinician may use the pattern of symptoms and examination to decide whether tests are needed.

Could constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome or an intolerance explain this pattern? Should I be checked for Coeliac Disease or an infection? Which foods should I record, and how can I change them without losing key nutrients? Would Nutrition Counselling help?