Other than being aesthetically unappealing, a bloated belly is uncomfortable, causing embarrassment in many people. Bloated bellies, once the mark of wealth and comfort, are now considered more of a health risk and an indication of bad health choices.

Belly bloating is actually common, with at least 15% of the population reporting to have experienced it at least once. Surprisingly enough, it's a symptom that is not fully understood. What's known is that it can be caused by many different things.

What causes belly bloating?

Belly bloating or puffiness is commonly caused by the accumulation of intestinal gas and liquids. This can be traced directly to the amount of food and drink an individual has taken during the period of time prior to the swelling. Bloating is also an indication that the food has not been ingested properly by the body.

The intake of fatty foods can also lead to stomach swelling. When fat cells are formed and not burned through physical activities and proper dieting, it can often slow down our bodies' ability to process food in the stomach. Some people may also be intolerant to dairy products and thus experience bloating, gas and cramps.

Belly bloating can also be traced to constipation, partial bowel obstruction, IBS or irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies and even excessive air swallowing. Some women also associate bloating with their monthly period and may even report it as a condition experienced with painful menstruation. There are also certain foods that can cause the production of excessive amounts of intestinal gas, which can lead to bloating.

Belly bloating foods

One of the most common culprits in belly bloating is food. Some foods just seem  to naturally cause bloating while others may lead to certain reactions in some individuals, causing their stomachs to swell. Some of these foods include:

Dairy products - milk, cheese, ice cream and yogurt can lead to unsightly and uncomfortable belly bloats and can vary in severity in some individuals. Dairy products can cause lactose intolerance in some individuals, who experience swelling and discomfort. Since dairy products are an important source of calcium and other nutrients, they may be replaced with lactose-free milk or vegetable-based products such as soy milk, cheese and tofu, which are easier to digest.

Beans - beans contain a substance called oligosaccharide, one type of sugar that is often difficult for the body to digest. The gas, along with the discomfort and swelling, is caused by intestinal bacteria that process the beans, thereby releasing the substance.

Asparagus, broccoli and cabbage - as healthful as they may be, these vegetables can cause stomach swelling and gas due to a type of sugar known as raffinose. The gas is a byproduct of intestinal bacteria that process the vegetables. The effects can be minimized, however, by controlling the serving portions of these vegetables.

Carbonated drinks - soda, softdrinks and beer contain carbon dioxide that are released into the stomach upon ingestion.

Apples - although an excellent source of fiber, they can cause bloating on people with sensitive stomachs. They can be eaten with moderation or with other foods to minimize their effects.

Salt - foods high in sodium will increase water retention, which in turn contributes to a bloated stomach.

How to lose belly bloat

The best way to lose belly bloat is to identify its causes and triggers. In some cases, the swelling cannot be helped and is temporary at best, such as the type of bloating that some women experience during their monthly period. In most cases, it's about belly bloat diet and lifestyle choices. By changing your attitude towards food and exercise and avoiding common triggers, the size and condition of your tummy can be managed.

Should you consider surgery?

If belly bloat is caused by fat, the best solution is a well-balanced diet mixed with regular exercise. These steps help burn excess calories and trim down extra bulges, particularly in the mid-section. There are also certain surgical options that can be used to correct belly bloat, such as liposuction and tummy tuck. A liposuction is a type of cosmetic surgery that uses a suction to remove fat in specific areas of the stomach, abdomen and thighs. Many patients prefer this procedure because it targets problem areas that contain fats that are difficult to remove through regular exercise.

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat and is normally performed with a liposuction. This is a helpful step to prevent sagging skin that normally follows a liposuction.

Is liposuction a good option?

Many people can take advantage of affordable liposuction and get the stomach and abs they want in a few weeks without having to undergo a rigorous exercise regimen. However, they need to be careful in order to avoid bad liposuction procedures. Like all types of surgeries, liposuction carries certain risks -- during and after the surgery. There are also certain liposuction side effects that patients must be aware of, such as swelling, bruising and scarring. If a patient is well aware of the risks and work closely with their surgeon, they can avoid liposuction dangers and maximize their experience to enjoy their new and well-deserved look.

Tags: bloated belly, belly bloat diet, lose belly bloat, belly bloating foods

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