Bloating at other times or regularly could be a sign of an underlying problem, but, digestive bloating occurs predominantly after a huge meal. Bloating is a condition in which your stomach feels swollen, tight, or hard. In certain cases, it can be painful and lead to major discomfort.
If these symptoms occur immediately after a huge meal the food likely consumed is more than the body’s regular intake. Your stomach isn’t very big, and overfilling it is bound to make you feel bloated.
Another reason here could be that the meals consumed have a higher amount of fats compared to the proportion of proteins and carbohydrates which make the body feel stiff and tight for a long period. Some foods are harder for your body to digest and tend to cause bloating and excess gas production.
The pace at which the food is consumed. Eating too quickly promotes swallowing of air which can lead to gas further leading to bloating. Plus, when you eat way too fast, you tend to overeat.
Plus, If you don’t chew your food properly, it makes the work of the rest of the body harder. By taking a little extra time to chew, you break it down into smaller pieces, making it easier for the food to travel down your esophagus into the stomach, where it is broken down further by stomach acid.
Hydration is an important element that aids smooth digestion. Try to sip water regularly throughout the day, but refrain from drinking too much at mealtimes because this can contribute to feeling bloated. It is advisable to have meals without sipping water, however, as per your convenience.
Try not to eat within two hours before you plan on going to bed as it can lead to acid reflux as the digesting food in your stomach can get pushed back into your esophagus more easily when you are lying flat as compared to sitting or standing.
Fiber is a very important part of the diet but is often overlooked or not considered. When included in the diet, fiber works to keep your bowel movements regular and prevent the onset of constipation.
In conclusion, the body knows best, so pay attention to what it’s saying. Know the signs by asking questions like:
Are you full?
Are you hungry?
Are you thirsty?
To avoid bloating, eat nutritious meals filled with dietary fiber on time in limited quantities. Along with that, focus on hydration and indulge in regular physical activity.
