Published on: 7/4/2025
Why does my stomach feel bloated after drinking alcohol?
Drinking alcohol can make your stomach feel bloated because it affects how your stomach and intestines work, and it can also change the way your stomach feels and acts.
Explanation
When you drink alcohol, it can cause your stomach to feel bloated for a few reasons. Alcohol can irritate your stomach lining and intestines, which can make them swell up and feel uncomfortable. This irritation can disrupt the normal function of your digestive system.
How Alcohol Affects the Stomach
- Irritation: Alcohol can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation.
- Delayed Emptying: It can slow down how quickly your stomach empties, causing a feeling of fullness.
Changes in Digestion
- Gas Production: Alcohol can increase the production of gas in the intestines.
- Acid Production: It can also affect the amount of acid in your stomach, which might lead to discomfort.
Understanding these effects can help explain why you might feel bloated after drinking alcohol. It's important to be mindful of how much you drink and how it affects your body.
(References)
- Reding KW, Cain KC, Jarrett ME, Eugenio MD, & Heitkemper MM. (2013). Relationship between patterns of alcohol consumption and .... The American journal of gastroenterology, 23295280.
- Bienia A, Sodolski W, & Luchowska E. (2002). The effect of chronic alcohol abuse on gastric and .... Annales Universitatis Mariae Curie-Sklodowska. Sectio D: Medicina, 12898897.
- Grande L, Manterola C, Ros E, Lacima G, & Pera C. (1997). Effects of red wine on 24-hour esophageal pH and .... Digestive diseases and sciences, 9201083.
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