Understanding Chronic Bloating: The Impact of Breathing and Stress

Bloating is often linked to digestive issues, but stress and breathing patterns can significantly influence this discomfort.

When bloating becomes a regular occurrence, many tend to blame food intolerances or gut health alone. However, Dr. Kunal Sood, a physician specializing in anesthesia and pain management, emphasizes that these issues can often stem from higher up — particularly, how we breathe and our stress levels.

Dr. Sood notes that rapid or shallow breathing can lead to swallowing excess air, causing bloating. "Shallow chest breathing is associated with aerophagia, where excess air accumulates in the stomach and intestines," he explains.

Common habits, such as talking while eating, drinking carbonated beverages, and using straws, can further exacerbate this issue. He highlights that fast eating and anxiety-induced hyperventilation can also increase the amount of air swallowed.

Moreover, stress shifts the body into a fight-or-flight state, diverting energy from digestion and worsening bloating. Dr. Sood states, "Stress reduces gut motility and digestive efficiency, making it harder for gas to clear and leading to noticeable bloating even without underlying gut problems."

Shallow breathing disrupts normal diaphragm movement, increasing abdominal pressure and contributing to discomfort. To alleviate chronic bloating, Dr. Sood recommends correcting breathing patterns and actively managing stress levels.

In conclusion, chronic bloating may be related to improper breathing and heightened stress. By improving breathing techniques and reducing stress, individuals can minimize air swallowing and support better digestion.