Abdominal bloating is a very common condition, where a person’s tummy feels heavy, full, and uncomfortable with a feeling of too much gas in the abdomen. Bloating is a frequent condition that can be relieved in both adults and children.

Symptoms can include the following:

• A fuller-than-normal feeling in the stomach.
• The feeling of gas in the abdomen.
• Excessive farting and burping.
• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen.
• The abdomen makes rumbles or additional noises.

There could be a variety of reasons for bloating and they may include the following:

• Swallowing excess air – while chewing gum, consuming food or beverages too quickly, smoking, etc.
• Delayed stomach emptying – delayed gas transport and accumulation of gas may result in bloating.
• Dietary factors – like gluten sensitivity, lactose intolerance, or other food intolerance.
• Digestive issues – like celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal bacterial overgrowth visceral hypersensitivity, altered gut motility, chronic constipation, etc.
• Stomach or intestinal inflammation – is caused by bacterial infection, namely, Helicobacter pylori, or by consuming too much alcohol.
• Eating disorders – anorexia and bulimia.

One may reduce or prevent bloating by practicing the following:

• Increase water intake to help in the easy movement of digested materials in the intestine. Also prevents stool hardening.
• Exercise frequently to enhance digestion and motility.
• Avoid eating anything that is not tolerated.
• Eat more fiber-rich foods to avoid constipation.
• Replace big meals with smaller, more regular ones.
• Steer clear of sodas, alcohol, caffeine, etc.
• Cut back on salt consumption.