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Bloated stomach and discomfort – look at the possible causes

The most important thing:

  • Causes of bloating and discomfort
  • Lactose intolerance as a cause of bloating and discomfort
  • List of foods containing hidden amounts of lactose
  • How to deal with the symptoms of lactose intolerance?

Bloating and discomfort are widespread problems affecting millions of people worldwide. From short-lived discomfort after a heavy meal to persistent bloating that hinders daily activities, these symptoms can significantly impact quality of life.

Bloating, characterised by a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen, often accompanied by gas, can be both physically and emotionally stressful. The discomfort, which ranges from mild irritation to sharp pains, can disrupt daily tasks, social life and even sleep.

Whether due to dietary choices, medical conditions or other factors, understanding the causes of bloating and abdominal discomfort is important for effective management and relief. We will tell you about the various factors that contribute to these symptoms and the potential solution offered by a specialised product such as Estocal.

Unbeknown to most people, lactose is used in a shocking number of foods, medicines (including contraceptives), vitamins and supplements. It acts as a filler or base that improves the texture and consistency of the foods in which it is used. In medicines, it improves the drug’s bioavailability and the taste of rapidly dissolving tablets.

These are some of the foods in which you may find hidden amounts of lactose. It is important to note that in the allergen list, lactose is often listed as “milk” or “modified milk” and is usually found towards the end of the ingredients list.

  • Sausages and other processed meat
  • Crisps (especially barbecue, ketchup, sour cream and onion, and pickle flavours)
  • Instant mashed potatoes
  • frozen food
  • Sauces and salad dressings
  • Soups
  • Pizza
  • Products containing flour
  • Oat snacks + granola
  • Chewing gum
  • Nutella (and nougat)
  • Instant coffee
  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Margarine
  • Glazes
  • Tinned tuna
  • Pâtés

If you want to avoid having to carefully scrutinise the ingredients of your favourite foods, it’s best to use products like Estocal or look for kosher and vegan options.

What causes bloating and discomfort?

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Bloating and discomfort can arise from various factors, many of which are related to diet, hormonal changes and the health of the digestive system. Understanding these causes is essential for effectively managing the symptoms.

Gastrointestinal conditions

Several gastrointestinal conditions can also contribute to bloating and discomfort. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas and changes in bowel habits. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. This causes symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain and bloating.

Gluten intolerance

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease caused by consuming gluten. It can cause bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and other digestive problems in people sensitive to gluten. Bloating and discomfort can also occur in people with a milder form of gluten intolerance not associated with coeliac disease.

Other reasons


Constipation is another common culprit for bloating and discomfort. When stools become hard and difficult to pass, it causes a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the abdomen. For many women, bloating and abdominal discomfort can also be linked to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can lead to water retention and abdominal bloating in the days before menstruation.

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Lactose intolerance and stomach discomfort

Lactose intolerance is a condition characterised by the body’s inability to break down lactose. It is a sugar found in dairy products. For those with lactose intolerance, consuming foods containing lactose can lead to various digestive symptoms, including bloating and discomfort. Around 65% of people are unable to break down lactose in dairy products to some extent.

When people with lactose intolerance consume dairy products, their bodies lack the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose into simpler sugars for absorption. As a result, the undigested lactose passes into the large intestine, where it interacts with gut bacteria. This leads to gas production and fermentation. The fermentation process can cause bloating, stomach cramps, gas and diarrhoea, usually within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose.

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Why does lactose intolerance occur?

Bloated stomach

Lactose intolerance can develop for several reasons. Primary lactose intolerance is the most common type. It is caused by a gradual reduction in lactase production with ageing, usually beginning in adolescence or early adulthood. Secondary lactose intolerance can develop as a result of damage to the small intestine, such as infections, coeliac disease or other gastrointestinal conditions. Additionally, some people may have congenital lactase deficiency, a rare genetic disorder present from birth that leads to severe lactose intolerance from early childhood.

Bloated stomach

How to cope with lactose intolerance

The first thing you can do to reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance is to change your dietary habits:

  • People with lactose intolerance often find relief by reducing or avoiding lactose-rich dairy products, such as fresh milk, soft cheeses, cream and ice cream.

  • Many people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose-containing foods without experiencing significant symptoms. Gradually introducing dairy products in smaller portions and monitoring symptom tolerance can help individuals identify their personal thresholds.

  • Some dairy products naturally contain smaller amounts of lactose. These are usually hard cheeses. Some people can consume them without experiencing any unpleasant symptoms.

  • The selection of lactose-free dairy products can offer an alternative for those who wish to continue consuming them while minimising discomfort. These products are treated with the enzyme lactase to break down lactose, making them easier to digest.

  • Some people find relief from lactose intolerance symptoms by including foods rich in probiotics or taking supplements in their diet. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help improve gut health and digestion. Some probiotic strains may help reduce symptoms such as bloating and gas.

Sometimes it is difficult to avoid consuming lactose. It is often added to foods that are not dairy products. Lactose can also be found in baked goods, breakfast cereals and ready-made salad dressings. Lactase supplements help to break down lactose in the digestive system. One such supplement is Estocal, which contains the enzyme lactase:

  • Taking Estocal before consuming lactose-containing food helps with its digestion.
  • By breaking down lactose, Estocal reduces the unpleasant symptoms following the consumption of dairy products, such as bloating, gas, pain and diarrhoea.
  • Taking this supplement allows you to avoid having to restrict yourself so much to prevent lactose-related stomach discomfort.

Consulting a doctor may be useful if you are experiencing symptoms resembling lactose intolerance:

  • You can obtain a clear diagnosis by consulting a doctor. There are several tests that can confirm you are lactose intolerant. They are usually carried out by having the patient drink a concentrated dose of lactose, after which their blood or breath is measured.

  • People who experience persistent or severe symptoms of lactose intolerance should seek advice from doctors, such as gastroenterologists or dietitians.

  • Doctors can provide personalised recommendations tailored to individual needs and offer support in implementing dietary changes and treatment strategies. Supplements such as Estocal are often recommended to manage symptoms following lactose consumption.

Although there are various causes of bloating and discomfort, it’s worth paying attention to how consuming dairy products affects you. Lactose intolerance affects many people, and it’s often difficult to eliminate lactose completely from your diet. Consult your doctor for the best approach and see if supplements like Estocal can help you and reduce your discomfort.

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CHZV:

Which milks are suitable for lactose intolerance?

  • People with lactose intolerance can safely consume lactose-free cow’s milk or dairy alternatives that are naturally lactose-free. Lactose-free cow’s milk, as well as non-dairy milks such as coconut milk, soya milk and almond milk, are good alternatives to regular cow’s milk.

Can lactose intolerance cause constipation?

  • Lactose intolerance can manifest as constipation. Although it mainly presents as diarrhoea, approximately one third of cases present as constipation. In lactose intolerance, constipation is associated with methane-producing bacteria in the intestines.

How does a bloated stomach feel?

  • Bloating is a condition in which your stomach feels full and tight, often due to gas. People may confuse bloating with other causes of a more pronounced stomach, such as laxity in the abdominal wall muscles or loose skin. This is common, especially among older women and those who have had children.

Bloated stomach

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Sources:

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