Bloating is a common issue, affecting 1 in 3 people in the UK. While both men and women experience it, women often suffer more—especially around their menstrual cycle or during menopause. For some, it’s an occasional annoyance, but for others, it’s a daily struggle that impacts confidence, social life, and wellbeing.
Associated Symptoms
Bloating often comes with other digestive symptoms, including:
Abdominal pain or cramping
Excessive gas or belching
Irregular bowel movements (diarrhoea, constipation, or both)
A heavy, sluggish feeling after meals
Nausea
Acid reflux or heartburn
A visibly distended belly
Unexplained weight fluctuations
Fatigue or brain fog
Causes
Bloating is a symptom that something deeper is going on, not a condition. Common underlying causes include:
Food intolerances & sensitivities – Certain foods can trigger inflammation and bloating.
Poor digestion – Low stomach acid or enzyme deficiencies can prevent proper food breakdown.
Gut dysbiosis & SIBO – Imbalances in gut bacteria can cause excessive fermentation and gas.
Constipation & slow gut motility – Waste buildup can lead to bloating and discomfort.
Hormonal fluctuations – Changes in oestrogen and progesterone during menstruation or menopause can trigger bloating.
Chronic stress – Stress impacts digestion, slowing gut function.
Hidden infections or parasites – These can contribute to bloating, fatigue, and digestive distress.
The GP Approach
GP testing typically focuses on ruling out serious conditions like coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but many cases of bloating aren’t linked to these conditions—leaving you without real answers.
Your GP may suggest general lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, chewing with your mouth closed, drinking plenty of water, eating more fibre if constipated, opting for smaller meals, and massaging your stomach to relieve trapped wind. While these strategies can provide some relief, they often don’t address the root cause of persistent bloating.
How can a Nutritional Therapist Help?
If bloating is interfering with your life, I take a root-cause approach to identify and resolve your triggers. Here’s what that looks like:
7-Day Food & Lifestyle Diary – Tracking diet, digestion, bowel movements, sleep, and stress helps identify patterns and triggers.
Targeted Food & Lifestyle Adjustments – Based on your test results and symptoms, we may:
Reduce problematic foods (such as high-FODMAP foods, dairy, or gluten).
Support digestion with digestive enzymes or bitters.
Restore gut balance with probiotics or prebiotics.
Address stress with relaxation techniques or lifestyle interventions.
Optimise meal timing and portion sizes to prevent overeating and bloating.
Ongoing Support & Adjustments – Everyone is different, so we fine-tune your plan over time for lasting relief.
Functional Testing
My recommended test is the GI Effects Comprehensive Stool Test ( GI Effects | Genova Diagnostics) This functional stool test provides a deep dive into gut health, checking for bacterial imbalances, enzyme production, inflammation markers, parasites, and more.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you or someone you know is tired of feeling uncomfortable and bloated, I can help you uncover the root cause and create a personalised plan that works for your body, lifestyle, and goals, let’s chat.