Why Am I So Bloated? Understanding the Root Causes of Gut Discomfort
Bloating is one of the most common gut complaints I see at Bayshore Naturopathic Clinic. Some people experience it occasionally, while for others it’s a daily frustration — the kind that can make you dread mealtimes or feel uncomfortable in your own skin.
The tricky thing about bloating is that it isn’t caused by just one factor. Your gut is a complex ecosystem, and there can be multiple overlapping reasons for your discomfort.
1. Food Sensitivities — Even Delayed Ones
Not all reactions to food happen immediately. Some food sensitivities can cause inflammation, fluid retention, or altered gut motility hours or even days after you eat them. That’s why it can be so hard to pinpoint the culprit.
At Bayshore, we use targeted food sensitivity testing to identify problem foods, so you’re not guessing or unnecessarily cutting out entire food groups.
2. Microbiome Imbalances
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria — some beneficial, some harmful. When this balance is disrupted (a state called dysbiosis), it can lead to excessive gas production, poor digestion, and bloating.
We can measure this accurately through microbiome testing (we use Cobiome, an advanced Australian lab) to see what’s thriving, what’s missing, and what needs support.
3. Low Digestive Enzymes or Hydrochloric Acid
Your stomach acid and digestive enzymes break down food so you can absorb nutrients. If you don’t produce enough, food can sit too long in your gut, ferment, and cause gas and bloating. This is surprisingly common — especially as we age or when we’re under chronic stress.
4. Stress and the Vagus Nerve Connection
Your gut and brain are deeply connected via the vagus nerve. When you’re stressed, digestion is often the first thing to take a hit — the body prioritises “fight or flight” over breaking down food. This can lead to slower motility, incomplete digestion, and that uncomfortable, swollen feeling.
Lifestyle Tips to Support a Happier Gut
While it’s important to uncover the root cause, these simple habits can help reduce bloating day-to-day:
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Chew your food thoroughly — aim for 20–30 chews per mouthful.
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Don’t drink large amounts of fluid with meals — sip if needed, but avoid diluting stomach acid.
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Eat in a calm environment — avoid eating on the run or while distracted.
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Include bitter foods like rocket, radicchio, and lemon water to naturally stimulate digestive juices.
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Support your stress response — try deep breathing before meals to activate the vagus nerve.
Test, Don’t Guess
If bloating is a regular occurrence, it’s your body’s way of saying something’s not right. Guessing at the cause can waste months (or years) and often leads to unnecessary restrictions.
With the right testing — whether that’s food sensitivity panels, microbiome mapping, or digestive function assessments — we can pinpoint the problem and create a plan that works for your body.
💬 If you’re tired of feeling bloated and uncomfortable, let’s get to the bottom of it.
At Bayshore Naturopathic Clinic, we’ll investigate the root causes, restore balance, and help you enjoy your food again — without the bloat.
📅 Book your consultation today — your gut will thank you.
