What’s Happening in Your Gut
Bloating occurs when your digestive system produces excess gas or when the muscles in your gut don’t move food along efficiently. This can create that uncomfortable, distended feeling many people experience after eating.
Your gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestion. When the balance of bacteria is off, certain foods may ferment more than they should, producing excess gas. This is especially common with:
- Fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) like onions, garlic, and beans
- Dairy products if you’re lactose intolerant
- Gluten-containing foods for sensitive individuals
- Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and mannitol
How Probiotics May Help
Certain probiotic strains have been studied for their ability to:
- Reduce gas production by improving the balance of gut bacteria
- Support digestive enzyme activity to break down food more efficiently
- Strengthen the gut barrier reducing inflammation that can slow digestion
- Modulate gut motility helping food move through at the right pace
Lifestyle Factors That Matter
Probiotics work best alongside good habits:
- Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Move your body regularly to support gut motility
- Manage stress which directly impacts digestion