Bloated Stomach

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Try one of these related symptoms.

Bloating

Stomach bloating after eating

Pressure in abdominal area due to bloating

Bloated belly

Rapid increase in abdominal circumference

Rapid increase in waist circumference

Stomach has a lot of gas

Waist size increasing quickly

Bloated stomach

Rapidly enlarged abdomen

Stomach feels swollen

Upper stomach feels full

About the Symptom

Abdominal bloating is a condition where the belly feels full and tight, often due to gas.

When to See a Doctor

Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms

Possible Causes

Generally, Bloated stomach can be related to:

Related Serious Diseases

Sometimes, Bloated stomach may be related to these serious diseases:

Doctor's Diagnostic Questions

Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:

Reviewed By:

Samantha Nazareth, MD

Samantha Nazareth, MD (Gastroenterology)

Board-certified gastroenterologist. Experience managing gastrointestinal conditions (GERD, IBS, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s, celiac disease, NASH) within healthcare organizations (three ambulatory surgical centers, single-specialty practice, multi-specialty practice and solo practice).

Aiko Yoshioka, MD

Aiko Yoshioka, MD (Gastroenterology)

Dr. Yoshioka graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine. He worked as a gastroenterologist at Saiseikai Niigata Hospital and Niigata University Medical & Dental Hospital before serving as the Deputy Chief of Gastroenterology at Tsubame Rosai Hospital and Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital. Dr. Yoshioka joined Saitama Saiseikai Kawaguchi General Hospital as Chief of Gastroenterology in April 2018.

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Content updated on Feb 6, 2025

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FAQs

Q.

Always Bloated? Why Your Gut Lacks Enzymes (Medically Approved Steps)

A.

Persistent bloating often stems from low or ineffective digestive enzymes that let food ferment, commonly from lactose intolerance or pancreatic enzyme insufficiency, and can be worsened by aging, gut disorders like celiac or SIBO, stress, and fast or heavy eating. Medically approved steps include keeping a food and symptom journal, eating and chewing slowly while limiting ultra-processed foods, considering targeted enzymes with doctor guidance, and getting tested for lactose intolerance, celiac disease, stool or pancreatic issues, with urgent care for red flags like weight loss, blood in stool, or severe pain. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more.

References:

* Capurso, G., & Valente, R. (2020). Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency and Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy: A Practical Guide for the Gastroenterologist. *Digestive Diseases*, *38*(3), 253-264. doi:10.1159/000505190

* Dominguez-Munoz, J. E., & Harden, M. B. (2023). Mechanisms of Malabsorption in Patients with Pancreatic Diseases: Clinical Implications. *Nutrients*, *15*(7), 1686. doi:10.3390/nu15071686

* Holst, M., & Domínguez-Muñoz, J. E. (2020). Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy: past, present and future. *Current Opinion in Gastroenterology*, *36*(5), 379-385. doi:10.1097/MOG.0000000000000667

* Lahner, E., & Annibale, B. (2017). Maldigestion syndromes: an overview. *Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders*, *18*(1), 1-13. doi:10.1007/s11154-016-9391-y

* Löhr, J. M., et al. (2020). Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pancreatitis. *United European Gastroenterology Journal*, *8*(8), 844-866. doi:10.1177/2050640620949413

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Bloated from Guiso de Lentejas? Why your gut is reacting and medical steps for relief.

A.

Bloating after guiso de lentejas is usually from lentils’ high fiber and FODMAPs, larger portions, and add-ins like onion, garlic, and fatty meats that increase fermentation and slow emptying; there are several factors to consider, see below to understand more. For relief try a walk, water, a warm pack, simethicone, or peppermint oil, prevent with smaller portions, slower eating, gradual fiber and low FODMAP tweaks like well rinsed canned lentils, and seek care for severe or persistent pain, vomiting, weight loss, blood in stool, fever, or swelling that does not improve, with complete guidance below.

References:

* Dahl WJ, et al. Effects of dietary pulses on gastrointestinal function: a review of the evidence. Br J Nutr. 2017 Mar;117(5):611-621. PMID: 28249826.

* Suhajda Á, et al. Dietary components leading to gas production in the gastrointestinal tract. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2015 Apr;49(4):301-5. PMID: 25828135.

* Halmos EP, et al. Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides and Polyols (FODMAPs) and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2014 Sep 26;6(10):3991-4034. PMID: 24075192.

* Ganiats TG, et al. Effect of alpha-galactosidase on gastrointestinal symptoms and colonic microbiota in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2015 Sep;49(8):673-81. PMID: 26048100.

* Lacy BE, et al. Management of functional abdominal bloating: a review. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2018 Jul 26;11:1756284818788950. PMID: 30071375.

See more on Doctor's Note

Q.

Bloated? Probiotics for Women: The Science & Medical Next Steps

A.

Probiotics can sometimes ease bloating in women, especially with IBS or microbiome imbalance, using strains like B. infantis, B. lactis, L. acidophilus, and L. plantarum, but results vary and benefits usually appear after 2 to 4 weeks. There are several factors to consider; see below for key details on when probiotics help versus hormonal or food intolerance causes, how to run a 4 week trial with other steps, and red flag symptoms that need medical care.

References:

* Kim SK, Guevarra KE, Kim H, et al. Probiotics in women's health. J Microbiol. 2019;57(5):450-456. doi:10.1007/s12275-019-9064-0. PMID: 31055742.

* Zhang Y, Li L, Guo C, et al. Role of Probiotics in Women with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A Systematic Review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2022;12:867749. doi:10.3389/fcimb.2022.867749. PMID: 35712165.

* Dimidi E, Christodoulides S, Scott SM, Whelan K. Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Microbiota in Adults with Chronic Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2017;106(4):1001-1014. doi:10.3945/ajcn.117.155424. PMID: 28835567.

* Ford AC, Harris LA, Quigley EMM, Moayyedi P. The role of probiotics in managing functional gastrointestinal disorders. Am J Gastroenterol. 2018;113(12):1733-1738. doi:10.1038/s41395-018-0322-9. PMID: 30487508.

* Ianiro G, Gasbarrini A, Plomer E. Probiotics for functional gastrointestinal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2019;34(9):1478-1488. doi:10.1111/jgh.14728. PMID: 31215037.

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Q.

Scared of Bloat? Why Your Body Needs Creatine for Women + Medical Next Steps

A.

Creatine for women rarely causes true bloating; it draws water into muscle cells, not the stomach. At 3 to 5 g daily without a loading phase, it can boost strength, lean mass, brain energy, and support during perimenopause and menopause. There are several factors to consider for safety and next steps, like who should avoid it, optional baseline labs, and what to do if you feel puffy or have red flags; see complete guidance below to decide if and how to start and when to talk to your clinician.

References:

* Smith-Ryan AE, Cabre HE, Eckerson JM, Candow DG. Creatine supplementation for women: A review of the evidence. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 Feb 2;18(1):19. doi: 10.1186/s12970-021-00418-x. PMID: 33516301; PMCID: PMC7856453.

* Forbes SC, Wackerhage H, Gualano B, Rawson ES, Smith-Ryan AE, Antonio J, Candow DG. Creatine and body water: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2024 Feb 5;21(1):2294136. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2024.2294136. PMID: 38317377; PMCID: PMC10842247.

* Roschel H, Gualano B, Candow DG. The physiological roles of creatine in the brain and its potential applications for women: A narrative review. Front Nutr. 2023 Sep 26;10:1269389. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1269389. PMID: 37841369; PMCID: PMC10562305.

* Candow DG, Smith-Ryan AE, Cabre HE, Candow MD, Roschel H, Gualano B. Creatine supplementation: an update with specific considerations for women. Br J Sports Med. 2024 Jan 9:bjsports-2023-107621. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107621. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38202517.

* Candreva L, Perrotta M, D'Aniello E, Grasso E, Di Meglio F, De Marino V, Capoccia M. Creatine supplementation in women's health: A narrative review. J Strength Cond Res. 2023 Nov 1;37(11):e580-e591. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004543. Epub 2023 Mar 28. PMID: 36979601.

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Q.

Bloated? Why Digestive Enzymes Fail + Medically Approved Next Steps

A.

Digestive enzymes often fail to relieve bloating because most cases stem from gut fermentation, food sensitivities, IBS, constipation, swallowed air, or stress rather than true enzyme deficiency; enzymes mainly help in specific situations like lactase for lactose intolerance or prescription therapy for confirmed pancreatic insufficiency. There are several factors to consider; see below for key causes that could change your plan. Medically approved next steps include tracking meals and symptoms, a short low FODMAP trial with guidance, improving bowel regularity, cutting carbonation and artificial sweeteners, slowing eating, and managing stress, with prompt care for red flags like weight loss, vomiting, blood in stool, severe pain, trouble swallowing, new symptoms after 50, or persistent bloating; important details that may affect your next steps are outlined below.

References:

* Barber, C., & Sayuk, G. S. (2019). Abdominal Bloating and Distension: Pathophysiology and Management. *Current Gastroenterology Reports*, *21*(2), 7. doi: 10.1007/s11894-019-0677-z

* Ghoshal, U. C., & Srivastava, D. (2020). Management of abdominal bloating and distension. *Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology*, *13*, 1756284820942020. doi: 10.1177/1756284820942020

* Pinto-Sanchez, M. I., & Bercik, P. (2019). Digestive enzymes in the treatment of functional dyspepsia: a systematic review. *Annals of Translational Medicine*, *7*(Suppl 4), S178. doi: 10.21037/atm.2019.06.49

* Rezaie, A., Pimentel, M., & Rao, S. S. C. (2021). Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Its Management. *Gastroenterology*, *160*(6), 1916-1931. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.01.066

* Lacy, B. E., Chey, W. D., & Lembo, A. J. (2021). The Low FODMAP Diet for the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. *The American Journal of Gastroenterology*, *116*(11), 2185-2193. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001476

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Q.

Bloated? Why Your Gut is Reacting: Medically Approved Low FODMAP Diet Steps

A.

Bloating is often triggered by poorly absorbed carbs called FODMAPs; a medically approved, three phase low FODMAP plan helps many people with IBS by using a 2 to 6 week elimination, stepwise reintroduction by FODMAP groups, then personalized maintenance to cut gas, water retention, and discomfort. There are several factors to consider, including other causes of bloating, how to do this diet safely with a clinician, and when red flag symptoms like weight loss, blood in stool, persistent vomiting, or severe pain mean you should seek care; see below to understand more.

References:

* Altobelli E, et al. Low-FODMAP Diet Improves Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms: A Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2017 Aug 26;9(9):915. doi: 10.3390/nu9090915. PMID: 28841102; PMCID: PMC5622728.

* Eswaran S, et al. A Low-FODMAP Diet Is Associated With Reduced Symptom Severity and Improved Quality of Life in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017 Jul;15(7):984-996.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2016.07.030. PMID: 27488934.

* Gibson PR. Clinical effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017 Mar;32 Suppl 1:12-16. doi: 10.1111/jgh.13682. PMID: 28244033.

* Halmos EP, et al. A diet low in FODMAPs reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in children and adults. Gastroenterology. 2014 Jan;146(1):67-75.e5. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.09.046. PMID: 24076059.

* Hill P, et al. Efficacy of the low FODMAP diet for treating irritable bowel syndrome: the evidence and its application. Int J Clin Pract. 2017 Mar;71(3-4):e12918. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.12918. PMID: 28198663.

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Q.

Always Bloated? Why Your Gut Reacts to FODMAPs & Medically Approved Steps

A.

Frequent bloating often comes from sensitivity to FODMAP carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed, pull water into the gut, and ferment into gas, a pattern common in IBS and often triggered by foods like wheat or rye, onions and garlic, certain fruits, and lactose-containing dairy. There are several factors to consider, and medically approved steps like a short-term low-FODMAP plan with guided reintroduction, smaller slower meals, constipation management, lactose testing, stress support, and ruling out other causes can help; see below for red-flag symptoms, probiotic cautions, and personalized next steps that could change your care plan.

References:

* O'Keeffe, M., & Gibson, P. R. (2020). The Low-FODMAP Diet: The Current Evidence and Its Role in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. *Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology*, *54*(3), 220-229. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31335442/

* Mutch, M., Tan, R., & Vohra, S. (2023). A review of the pathophysiology and the evidence for the low FODMAP diet in irritable bowel syndrome. *Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care*, *26*(5), 441-447. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37402688/

* Staudacher, H. M. (2023). Beyond the Low FODMAP Diet: Recent Advances in Dietary and Non-Dietary Management Strategies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. *Current Gastroenterology Reports*, *25*(6), 184-192. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37128913/

* Biesiekierski, J. R., & Muir, J. G. (2021). The effect of low FODMAP diet on the gut microbiota: A systematic review and meta-analysis. *Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics*, *34*(6), 849-862. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34661445/

* Ford, A. C., Moayyedi, P., Black, C. J., Chey, W. D., Quigley, E. M. M., Saito, Y. A., ... & Lacy, B. E. (2024). AGA Clinical Practice Guideline on the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Executive Summary. *Gastroenterology*. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38382713/

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Q.

Bloated From Coconut Milk? Why Your Gut Is Reacting & Medical Next Steps

A.

Bloating after coconut milk usually comes from high fat slowing digestion, small amounts of FODMAPs, and additives like guar, xanthan, or carrageenan, especially in large portions, and it is usually not dangerous; true coconut allergy is rare but serious. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more. Next steps include reducing the serving size or choosing light or additive free brands, trying a brief elimination and careful reintroduction, considering other milks, and seeking medical care if symptoms persist, worsen, or include red flags like severe pain, vomiting, blood in stool, or weight loss. Important details that may change your next steps are explained below.

References:

* Piekarska, A., Pieszka, M., Szalapata, K., Taciak, M., & Staroniewicz, M. (2022). Medium Chain Triglycerides and The Microbiome: Implications for Metabolic Health and Disease. *Nutrients*, *14*(2), 346.

* Drisko, J. A., & Chen, G. C. (2023). Food Intolerance and the Gut Microbiome. *Nutrients*, *15*(3), 702.

* Varjú, P., Gede, N., Szakács, Z., Hegyi, P., & Pécsi, D. (2017). Dietary polyols and irritable bowel syndrome: a review of current knowledge. *Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology*, *51*(8), 664-672.

* Halmos, E. P., & Gibson, P. R. (2019). Dietary Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. *Gastroenterology & Hepatology*, *15*(1), 16-24.

* Cozma-Petruţ, A., Cijevschi-Prelipcean, C., Stanciu, C., & Trifan, A. (2017). The Role of Diet in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. *Journal of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases*, *26*(3), 305-312.

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Q.

Still Bloated? Chia Seeds Benefits: Reality & Medical Next Steps

A.

Chia seeds can aid regularity, gut bacteria, and heart and blood sugar health, but they may worsen bloating if you add too much fiber too fast, eat them dry, drink too little, or have IBS or SIBO. There are several factors to consider, including starting low, soaking, hydrating, and knowing when persistent bloating or red flags call for tests and a doctor visit; see below for specific steps and warning signs.

References:

* da Silva, B. P., da Luz, E. J., do Vale, M. M., & da Silva, J. B. (2020). Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): a new natural source of bioactive compounds. *Food Science and Technology*, *40*(Suppl 2), 643-652. PMCID: PMC7973884. PMID: 33758362.

* Nieman, C., Knab, S., Sinner, B. M., & Biesalski, H. K. (2020). Systematic review of the nutritional and health benefits of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.). *European Journal of Nutrition*, *59*(7), 2823-2843. doi: 10.1007/s00394-019-02058-2. PMID: 31440866.

* Vuksan, V., Choleva, L., Jovanovski, E., & Jenkins, D. J. A. (2018). Chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) as an emerging source of nutraceutical compounds. *Food Research International*, *108*, 290-302. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2018.03.027. PMID: 29733471.

* Hosseini, S., Saedisomeh, A. A., & Zendehdel, H. (2022). Impact of Chia Seeds (Salvia Hispanica L.) on Metabolic Disorders: A Comprehensive Review. *Journal of Functional Foods*, *90*, 104975. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2022.104975. PMID: 35140360.

* Mohd Nasir, N. A., Abdul Kadir, H., Che Abdullah, S. H., & Mohd Ramli, N. (2023). Effects of Salvia hispanica L. (Chia Seed) on Body Weight and Metabolic Risk Factors in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. *Nutrients*, *15*(1), 116. doi: 10.3390/nu15010116. PMCID: PMC9823432. PMID: 36610815.

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Q.

Is Watermelon Fueling Your Bloat? The Science & Medically Approved Next Steps

A.

Watermelon can fuel bloating in some people because it is high in fructose and other FODMAPs, and large portions or fast, social eating can add swallowed air; those with IBS or fructose malabsorption are most likely to react. There are several factors to consider. See below for medically approved next steps including portion control, a short-term supervised low FODMAP trial, slower eating, hydration, food and symptom logging, and when to seek care for red flags like severe pain, weight loss, blood in stool, fever, or persistent vomiting.

References:

* Biesiekierski, J. R., Rosella, O., Dimidi, U., Camilleri, M., & Whelan, K. (2022). FODMAP content of common Australian foods: the first Australian-specific food composition database. *Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics*, *35*(2), 221-229.

* Fedewa, A., & Rao, S. S. (2014). Fructose intolerance in irritable bowel syndrome: what is the evidence? *Gastroenterology & Hepatology*, *10*(2), 108-116.

* Marsh, A., Eslick, G. D., & Draganov, P. V. (2016). Efficacy of a low FODMAP diet in irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. *The American Journal of Gastroenterology*, *111*(1), 1656-1662.

* Ong, D. K., Mitchell, T., Glass, K., & Shepherd, S. J. (2013). Dietary fructose in irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review. *Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics*, *26*(5), 497-507.

* Chey, W. D. (2018). Sugar intake and gastrointestinal function. *Current Opinion in Gastroenterology*, *34*(2), 110-116.

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References