Why Am I Bloated?

Feeling puffy, uncomfortable or like your stomach suddenly doubled in size?

You're definitely not alone.

Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints, affecting people of all ages. Sometimes it's caused by something as simple as eating too quickly. Other times it can be linked to your diet, digestion, hormones or underlying health conditions.

The good news is that, for many people, small everyday habits can make a noticeable difference.

In this guide we'll cover:

• What bloating actually is
• Common causes
• Foods that may contribute
• Simple habits that may help
• When it's worth seeing a doctor

What is bloating?

Bloating is the feeling that your stomach is unusually full, tight or swollen.

For some people it's simply uncomfortable.

For others it can make clothes feel tighter, cause stomach pain or make them feel sluggish throughout the day.

Although people often describe bloating as "water retention", it's more commonly related to gas, digestion or changes in how food moves through the digestive system.

Common causes of bloating

There isn't just one cause.

Some of the most common include:

Eating too quickly

Swallowing excess air while eating can increase gas in the digestive tract.

Eating large meals

A very large meal naturally takes longer to digest and may leave you feeling fuller for longer.

Not eating enough fibre

Fibre helps keep food moving through your digestive system.

Too little fibre may contribute to constipation, which is a common cause of bloating.

(If you're increasing fibre, do it gradually and drink plenty of water.)

Gut bacteria

Your gut contains trillions of bacteria that help digest food.

When these bacteria ferment certain foods, gas is produced as a normal part of digestion.

Some people simply produce more gas than others.

Hormonal changes

Many women notice increased bloating before or during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations.

Food intolerances

Some people may react to foods such as:

• Dairy
• Wheat
• Onions
• Beans
• Certain artificial sweeteners

Keeping a simple food diary can sometimes help identify patterns.

Foods that may help support digestion

No single food magically "fixes" bloating.

However, eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fibre and adequate water may support healthy digestion.

Foods commonly associated with digestive health include:

• Leafy greens
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Kiwi fruit
• Oats
• Yoghurt containing live cultures
• Fermented foods

Could greens help?

Many people don't eat the recommended amount of vegetables every day.

While greens supplements aren't a replacement for vegetables, they can be a convenient way to increase your intake alongside a balanced diet.

At Dabble, we created our Super Greens Gummies for people who don't enjoy powders or complicated health routines.

They're an easy way to make eating more greens part of your daily routine.

Everyday habits that may reduce bloating

Small habits often make the biggest difference.

Try:

✅ Eating more slowly

✅ Drinking enough water

✅ Walking after meals

✅ Eating more fibre gradually

✅ Managing stress

✅ Eating more vegetables

✅ Staying physically active

When should you see a doctor?

While occasional bloating is common, it's worth seeking medical advice if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Blood in your stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent diarrhoea or constipation
• Symptoms that continue for several weeks

A healthcare professional can help identify whether something more serious may be causing your symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel bloated every day?

Daily bloating may be related to diet, constipation, food intolerances, hormones or digestive conditions. If symptoms persist, it's worth discussing them with your doctor.

Does drinking water help bloating?

Staying hydrated supports normal digestion and may help prevent constipation, which can contribute to bloating.

Can greens gummies help bloating?

Greens gummies aren't a treatment for bloating, but increasing your vegetable intake as part of a healthy diet may support digestive health for some people. Individual results vary.