Causes of bloating – Why we suffer from air in our stomachs

Bloating (meteorism or flatulence) is a widespread problem and is affecting more and more people. Many speak of a “bloated belly” or a “tense belly” – regardless of the term, the fact remains that this issue is becoming increasingly relevant. But what are the causes of bloating? Why do so many people suffer from it? This article looks at the most common causes of bloating and explains which factors play a role.

Intestine-associated causes of flatulence

Intolerances and intolerances

One of the most common causes of flatulence is intolerance to certain foods. These include in particular

• Fructose
• Lactose
• Sorbitol
• Histamine
• Gluten

These intolerances are often caused by excessive consumption or a disturbed intestinal flora. They can be diagnosed with simple tests such as blood tests, stool analyses or breath tests. If they remain undetected, they not only lead to flatulence, but also to complaints such as diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain.

Insufficient digestive juices

Our digestive juices – especially gastric acid, pancreatic enzymes and bile acids – are essential for food processing. If their production is impaired or too weak, carbohydrates, fats and proteins cannot be digested optimally. This leads to fermentation processes in the intestines, which can cause flatulence and other digestive problems.

Fungi and clostridia in the gut

Fungi, especially Candida, have long been considered the main cause of flatulence. However, they are less common than often assumed. Much more problematic are clostridia, a group of bacteria that cause severe gas formation in the intestines. An overgrowth of clostridia can not only cause flatulence, but also abdominal cramps and irritation of the mucous membranes, which in turn can lead to leaky gut syndrome.

Mechanical causes

Insufficient chewing of food

Digestion begins in the mouth. By chewing thoroughly, food is mechanically broken down and mixed with enzymes in the saliva. If large chunks of food are insufficiently chewed, the food enters the stomach and intestines poorly prepared. This makes digestion more difficult and promotes flatulence and other digestive problems.

Swallowing air while eating

Many people unconsciously swallow air when eating, which leads to increased flatulence. This is often caused by:

• Eating in a hurry
• Talking during the meal
• Drinking carbonated drinks
• Chronic nasal congestion that forces mouth breathing

Excessive fluid intake during meals

Another problem is excessive drinking during meals. Too much liquid dilutes the digestive juices and makes it more difficult to break down the food. This can lead to fermentation processes in the intestines, which in turn cause flatulence and abdominal pain.

Psychological causes

Psychological causes of bloating

In addition to physical causes of bloating, there is also a strong psychological component. Stress, anxiety and suppressed emotions can have an effect on digestion. Rüdiger Dahlke describes impressively in his books that bloating is often symbolic of unexpressed emotions. For example:

• “It stinks!” – Unspoken anger or frustration
• “Consequences at the back” – When you don’t feel heard
• “Things that don’t suit you” – both figuratively and physically

Stress can make the intestines sluggish or lead to overactivity, which in turn leads to bloating. A conscious reduction in stress and mindfulness in everyday life can help here.

Conclusion

The causes of bloating are varied and range from food intolerances and mechanical problems to psychological factors. To avoid bloating in the long term, it is important to understand your own body better and address possible causes in a targeted manner. A healthy diet, thorough chewing, avoiding stress and, if necessary, intestinal cleansing can help to solve the problem at its root.

Do you often have flatulence? Then it’s worth questioning your eating habits and possibly having tests carried out for intolerances. After all, good digestion is the basis for well-being and health!