Prevent Bloating

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Bloating occurs when the gastrointestinal tract fills with air or gas. This uncomfortable feeling can be caused by eating certain foods and constipation, among other reasons.

To prevent bloating, the American Academy of Family Physicians says you should avoid:

Foods known to cause gas, such as beans and lentils.

Chewing gum.

Straws for drinking.

Carbonated drinks, such as soda.

Dairy products, if they cause bloating.

Smoking.

Uncovering Causes of Bloating

Bloating is often described as the feeling that there is an inflated balloon in the abdomen, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders says.

The foundation mentions these common triggers for bloating:

Too much gas in the intestine.

Abnormally high amounts of bacteria in the small intestine.

Imbalance of microorganisms that usually live in the bowel, which could be the result of taking antibiotics.

Food intolerance.

Increased curvature of the lumbar region of the spine, which decreases the capacity of the abdomen to hold gas.