If you’re feeling uncomfortable, overly full, or noticing a visible belly bulge by the end of the day, you’re not alone, and it’s time to beat bloating. While occasional gas is normal, persistent bloating may signal an underlying digestive issue. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward lasting relief. Our gastroenterology team offers targeted evaluation, noninvasive breath tests, and personalized nutrition to help restore gut health.
What Is Bloating?
Do you think bloating is caused by swallowed air or drinking carbonated beverages? Belching usually easily resolves these sources of gas.
Problematic bloating is from the retention of liquids and solids in the digestive system and the buildup of gas produced by intestinal bacteria. The gut microbiome ferments undigested carbohydrates, and in some people this process produces excess gas and heightened sensitivity.
Bloating affects about 30% of the general population and is more common in females than males. The colon
Bloating affects about 30% of the general population and is more common in females than males. The colon is the home of billions of “friendly” bacteria that contribute to overall health. But, these bacteria also digest foods and liquids not completed absorbed. Some intestinal gas is normal. Excessive gas leads to bloating. Some people are very sensitive to gas and feel symptoms at lower levels of gas than other people. If bloating is persistent or worsening, a structured evaluation can help distinguish diet-related triggers from medical conditions.
Do You Have Problematic Bloating?
- Do you feel full even after eating small meals?
- Does your sensation of fullness last long after a meal?
- Do your symptoms worsen as the day progresses?
- Can you see your stomach area distended through your clothes?
- Do you notice excessive gas, cramping, or changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or mixed)?
- Are symptoms triggered by dairy, high‑FODMAP foods, or gluten-containing foods?
What is Causing Your Bloating?
Many people previously diagnosed with IBS are ultimately found to have one or more of the disorders producing their symptoms. Identifying the exact cause supports targeted treatment instead of trial-and-error.
- Celiac disease or gluten allergy: Immune reactions to gluten can cause malabsorption, gas, and bloating; appropriate blood tests and, when indicated, endoscopic evaluation help confirm.
- SIBO or bacterial overgrowth syndrome: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth can be assessed with noninvasive breath testing and treated with evidence-based protocols.
- Lactose intolerance: Lactose breath testing and guided elimination can clarify whether dairy triggers bloating and discomfort.
- Other food intolerances: Fructose malabsorption, FODMAP sensitivity, and histamine intolerance may contribute to bloating; a registered dietitian–guided low‑FODMAP or structured reintroduction plan can reduce symptoms.
Beat Bloating: Get Tested!
Find the cause. Eliminate the symptoms. Beat bloating!
Dr. Angela Merlo is an expert at identifying allergies or intolerances to certain foods that cause excessive gas production and bloating.
Learn more about testing for food allergies or intolerances >>
If you struggle with chronic bloating or experience a sudden increase in bloating, you should consult a GI doctor to rule out the possibility of a serious digestive disorder. Seek prompt care for red flags such as unintentional weight loss, persistent vomiting, blood in stool, fever, or significant changes in bowel habits.
Dr. Angela Merlo of the Digestive Health and Nutrition Center in Princeton, New Jersey has built her career around GI-related health and wellness. Whether your bloating is a symptom of a serious condition or simply a result of diet, Dr. Merlo can help you identify the cause and curate a treatment plan and/or nutrition plan aimed at eliminating bloating. Contact Dr. Merlo online or by calling (609) 896-0800 to schedule a consultation.
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