Gas formation and bloating after eating is a common digestive issue. It’s often thought to be caused only by junk or unhealthy food — but that’s not entirely true. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a well-known gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, explains the three major causes of gas formation in the stomach.
🍽️ 1. Diet & Certain Carbohydrates
Diet is the leading cause, but not just junk food.
Some healthy foods also cause gas due to indigestible carbohydrates, such as:
Lactose (milk)
Fructose (fruits)
Fructans (wheat and grains)
Sorbitol (found in fruits and sugar substitutes)
These carbs are not fully digested, reach the intestines, ferment, and create gas.
Even healthy eaters may experience gas if their body cannot digest these carbs properly.
🧠 2. IBS or Functional Dyspepsia
Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or functional dyspepsia affect digestion.
IBS symptoms: Abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, irregular bowel movements.
Functional dyspepsia causes pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
These disorders lead to abnormal digestive movement, causing gas to get trapped and bloating to worsen.
🚽 3. Constipation
Often underestimated, constipation is a key cause of bloating and gas.
When stool stays in the intestine too long:
Bacteria begin to ferment the stool, producing excess gas.
This results in bloating, pressure, and pain in the stomach.
✅ What You Can Do
Identify trigger foods that don’t suit your digestive system.
Improve lifestyle habits to prevent constipation:
Eat fiber-rich food
Drink plenty of water
Stay physically active
If the issue persists, consult a doctor — it may signal a deeper condition.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is based on expert insights and medical sources.
For personal diagnosis or treatment, always consult your physician.
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