Why Am I So Bloated?
We’ve all been there. Your jeans feel tighter, your stomach feels puffy, and you can’t figure out why. Feeling bloated is super common, but just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal.
Let’s break down the most common reasons you might feel bloated and what’s really going on in your body.
1. You’re Swallowing Extra Air
Sounds weird, right? But sometimes bloating isn’t about food at all. It’s about air.
– Eating too fast
– Drinking fizzy drinks
– Chewing gum
– Talking while eating
All of these can make you swallow more air, which then sits in your stomach and makes you feel puffy.
Try slowing down, chewing properly, and swapping fizzy drinks for still water.
2. Your Gut Doesn’t Like What You Ate
Certain foods can be harder to digest. For some people, it’s bread or pasta (gluten). For others, it’s milk or cheese (dairy).
When your body struggles to break something down, it can ferment in your gut, creating gas, bloating, and discomfort.
If you notice you always feel bloated after certain foods, keep a little food diary and look for patterns.
3. You’re Constipated
Not going to the toilet regularly? That can back things up, making you feel heavy and bloated.
Constipation can happen when you don’t eat enough fibre (fruits, veggies, wholegrains), don’t drink enough water, or sit too much without moving your body.
Aim for more fibre, plenty of water, and daily movement to keep things flowing.
4. Stress Is Messing With Your Gut
Your brain and gut are super connected. When you’re stressed or anxious, your body produces stress hormones that can slow digestion, trap gas, and cause bloating.
Simple things like deep breathing, stretching, or a walk in fresh air can help calm your gut when stress is high.
5. Hormones Are Playing a Role
Ever feel more bloated right before your period? That’s totally normal. Changes in hormones like oestrogen and progesterone can affect fluid balance and digestion, which often leads to bloating.
Usually this kind of bloating eases once your period starts. Supporting your hormones with good food, sleep, and stress care can make a difference.
6. Gut Imbalances
Your gut is full of bacteria, some good, some not so helpful. If that balance gets thrown off (maybe from antibiotics, illness, or diet), it can lead to too much gas and bloating.
Probiotic-rich foods (like sauerkraut, kefir, or yoghurt) can help restore balance, but check in with a professional if it’s a regular issue.
When Should You Worry?
Most bloating is harmless and linked to food, hormones, or stress. But if you notice bloating that’s:
– Severe or painful
– Constant and not linked to food
– Coming with weight loss, blood in stool, or other strong symptoms
It’s time to check in with your doctor to rule out anything more serious.
Bloating is Common
But it’s your body’s way of saying something needs attention. It could be what you eat, how fast you eat, your stress levels, your hormones, or your gut health.
The good news? Small shifts like eating slower, drinking more water, managing stress, and noticing food triggers can make a big difference.
So next time you feel bloated, don’t just get frustrated, get curious. Your gut is trying to talk to you.