10 Surprising Foods That Give You Bloating and Gas

1. Beans and lentils

Legumes contain high amounts of fiber, which can be difficult to digest for some people, leading to bloating and gas.

2. Broccoli and cauliflower

These cruciferous vegetables contain a sugar called raffinose, which can ferment in the gut, causing gas.

Onions and garlic

These vegetables contain fructans, which are a type of carbohydrate that can be hard to digest for some people.

Carbonated drinks

Carbonation can cause bloating and gas by trapping air in the digestive system.

Apples and pears

These fruits contain high amounts of fiber and natural sugars, which can cause gas and bloating.

Wheat and other gluten-containing grains

Some people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease may experience bloating and gas after consuming wheat and other grains that contain gluten.

Milk and dairy products

People who are lactose intolerant may experience bloating and gas after consuming milk and dairy products.

Artificial sweeteners

Some artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol and xylitol, can be difficult to digest, causing bloating and gas.

Chewing gum

Chewing gum can cause you to swallow air, which can lead to bloating and gas.

Fried and fatty food

High-fat foods can slow down digestion, leading to bloating and discomfort.

Why do certain foods give bloating and gas?

Certain foods can cause bloating and gas because they contain carbohydrates and fibers that cannot be fully digested in the small intestine. These undigested carbohydrates and fibers are then passed on to the large intestine, where they are broken down by bacteria, leading to the production of gas.

One of the main types of carbohydrates that can cause bloating and gas is oligosaccharides, which are found in beans, lentils, and other legumes. Oligosaccharides are not fully broken down by the enzymes in the small intestine, so they reach the large intestine intact, where they are fermented by bacteria.

Another type of carbohydrate that can cause bloating and gas is fructose, which is found in fruits, honey, and some vegetables. Fructose is absorbed in the small intestine, but some people may not absorb it efficiently, leading to bloating and gas.

In addition to carbohydrates, certain foods can cause bloating and gas because they are high in fat, which can slow down digestion and lead to discomfort. Carbonated drinks and chewing gum can also cause bloating and gas because they can lead to the swallowing of air, which can accumulate in the digestive tract.

Finally, some people may experience bloating and gas due to food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. In these cases, the body is unable to digest certain components of the food, leading to discomfort and digestive symptoms.