There are various reasons for a bloated stomach, such as an irregular lifestyle, poor food hygiene, emotional imbalance, excessive stress, hasty eating or greasy food. It can also occur as a result of certain illnesses or as a reaction after surgery.
Symptoms
Bloating and tightness in the abdomen
Bloating, loss of appetite
Cramps, diarrhoea or constipation
Chinese medicine believes that bloating is caused by dysfunction of the spleen and stomach, and usually aims to improve digestion. Acupuncture points in the epigastric region and the stomach meridian can be used to promote gastrointestinal function.
The main cause of bloating is difficulty of the digestive system to absorb certain types of carbohydrates. For example, beans tend to cause flatulence, as do cabbage vegetables, green cauliflower, onions, white cauliflower, wholemeal flour, white radish and bananas. In addition, citrus fruits, drinks and desserts with added sweeteners (sorbitol) can make the symptoms of flatulence worse. The effect of these foods on flatulence varies according to body type, so patients should assess from their own experience which foods tend to cause flatulence and should be avoided if possible