Bloating is a common condition characterized by a feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the abdomen, often accompanied by visible abdominal distension.
Ranked by community outcomes, then evidence grade, Health Voice mentions, and recency.
Why it may help Bloating: Speeds gastric emptying and reduces bloat
Why it may help Bloating: A Low-FODMAP Diet reduces the intake of fermentable carbohydrates that can be poorly absorbed and fermented by gut bacteria, thereby decreasing gas production and bloating.
Why it may help Bloating: Digestive enzymes supplement the body's natural enzymes, helping to break down complex food molecules, which can reduce undigested food fermentation and subsequent bloating.
Peppermint oil is a traditional remedy often used to alleviate digestive discomforts like indigestion and bloating, primarily due to its potential antispasmodic effects.
Why it may help Bloating: Artichoke extract stimulates bile production and flow, aiding in the digestion of fats and potentially reducing bloating by improving gut motility and nutrient absorption.
Why it may help Bloating: Fennel contains anethole, which has antispasmodic properties that relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing gas and alleviating bloating.
Aerobic and resistance exercise have RCT-grade evidence for depression, comparable to SSRIs in mild-moderate cases.
Why it may help Bloating: Eases constipation-related bloat
Why it may help Bloating: Calms digestive tract
Why it may help Bloating: Eases gas and intestinal spasms
Why it may help Bloating: Targets SIBO-related overgrowth
Why it may help Bloating: Rebalances gut flora that produces excess gas
Why it may help Bloating: Supports stomach acid for digestion
Bitter root supporting liver, bile flow, and digestion.
Community outcomes
Self-reported by community members · not medical advice.
Self-reported community outcomes. Not medical advice. Requires at least three reports per remedy to surface.
Community outcome data is still being collected for this ailment.
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Community Discussions
How global health authorities view Bloating.
The Mayo Clinic acknowledges that bloating is a common symptom with various causes, often related to diet and lifestyle. They suggest dietary changes, exercise, and over-the-counter remedies like simethicone. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) notes that some herbal remedies, such as peppermint oil, have been studied for IBS symptoms including bloating, with some positive results. They emphasize the importance of discussing any complementary health approaches with a healthcare provider. The NHS advises on dietary and lifestyle modifications for bloating and gas, including eating slowly, exercising, and avoiding trigger foods.
Indexed studies for Bloating, grouped by source type and quality.
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Pooled analyses across multiple human trials.
Mehravar S, Takakura W, Wang J, Pimentel M, Nasser J, Rezaie A · Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association · 2025 · n=1293
Archaea constitute one of the main 3 domains of the tree of life, distinct from eukaryotes and bacteria. Excessive luminal loads of methanogenic archaea (intestinal methanogen overgrowth [IMO]) have been implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases, including constipation. To elucidate the phenotypical presentation of IMO, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence and severity of gastrointestinal symptoms in subjects with IMO as compared with subjects without IMO. Electronic databases, including OVID MEDLINE and Cochrane Database from inception until September 2023, were systematically searched. Prevalence rates, odds ratios (ORs), standardized mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of symptoms were calculated. Nineteen studies were included (1293 patients with IMO and 3208 controls). Patients with IMO exhibited various gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating (78%), constipation (51%), diarrhea (33%), abdominal pain (65%),
Arif TB, Ali SH, Bhojwani KD, Sadiq M, Siddiqui AA, Ur-Rahman A · European journal of gastroenterology & hepatology · 2025
Functional gastrointestinal disorders impact 40% of the global population, with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) standing out due to its complexity, quality-of-life effects, and economic impact. Our meta-analysis explored the global prevalence of IBS, considering diagnostic criteria, subtypes, sampling methods, geographical variations, and risk factors. The literature search used databases like PubMed and Cochrane Library, focusing on IBS studies from 2006 to June 2024. Eligibility criteria included studies on individuals aged ≥18, based on Rome III/IV criteria, using random or convenience sampling. Data on IBS prevalence, subtypes, and sampling methods were extracted, and statistical analysis was performed using Open MetaAnalyst and the review manager. The study reviewed 96 articles on IBS prevalence using Rome III and IV criteria across 52 countries, revealing a global prevalence of 14.1%. Prevalence varied by subtype: IBS-C (26.1%), IBS-D (26.5%), IBS-M (31.4%), and IBS-U (8.3%
Cuffe MS, Staudacher HM, Aziz I, Adame EC, Krieger-Grubel C, Madrid AM · The lancet. Gastroenterology & hepatology · 2025 · n=2338
Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often interested in dietary interventions as a means of managing their symptoms. However, the relative efficacy of available diets for the management of IBS is unclear. We aimed to examine the relative efficacy of various dietary interventions in IBS. For this systematic review and network meta-analysis we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, EMBASE Classic, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from database inception to Feb 7, 2025, to identify randomised controlled trials comparing an active dietary intervention requiring changes to the intake of more than one food in IBS with either a control intervention, such as a habitual diet, sham diet, a high fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) diet, or alternative miscellaneous dietary advice, or any other active dietary intervention requiring changes to the intake of more than one food. We assessed efficacy using dichotomous assessments of
Controlled human studies with random assignment.
Clinical Trial: Rifaximin Versus Low FODMAP Diet in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Chuah KH, Loo QY, Loh AJC, Leong JY, Chan WL, Khoo XH · Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics · 2026 · n=100
Rifaximin and the low FODMAP diet (LFD) are suggested as second-line therapies for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Direct comparative data are limited. To compare the efficacy of rifaximin and LFD in IBS. In this single-blind, randomised controlled trial, we allocated adults with IBS to rifaximin or LFD. The primary outcome was composite symptom improvement (abdominal pain/discomfort and stool consistency/frequency) at Week 4. Secondary outcomes included individual symptom improvement, ≥ 50 point reduction in IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS), health-related quality of life (HRQOL), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) eradication, adherence and adverse events. We randomised 100 patients equally (median age 50 years; 52% female; 68% IBS-D; 17% SIBO). Based on the composite symptom assessment, response rates were similar between groups (rifaximin 56.0% vs. LFD 48.0%, p = 0.423) at Week 4. Howe
Singh P, Dean G, Iram S, Peng W, Chey SW, Rifkin S · Neurogastroenterology and motility · 2025
Mediterranean diet (MD) has been proposed as a dietary therapy for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) but its efficacy remains unclear. We compared the efficacy of MD to a diet low in fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols (LFD). In this pilot-feasibility, randomized controlled trial (RCT), adult patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) or mixed bowel pattern (IBS-M) were randomized to MD versus LFD for 4 weeks. Meals were provided for both groups (ModifyHealth, GA). Daily variables included abdominal pain intensity (API) and bloating, while IBS symptom severity score (IBS-SSS) and IBS adequate relief (IBS-AR) were scored weekly. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with ≥ 30% decrease in API for ≥ 2/4 weeks. Of 26 randomized patients, 20 finished the study (10 per group). Seventy-three percent of the MD group met the primary endpoint compared to 81.8% of the LFD group (p = 1.0). Although not stat
Singh P, Chey WD, Takakura W, Cash BD, Lacy BE, Quigley EMM · Gastroenterology · 2025
Personalized dietary therapies for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are needed and an immunoglobulin (Ig)G-antibody-based elimination diet presents a potential solution. However, existing studies have serious methodological limitations. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an elimination diet by using a novel IBS-specific IgG assay. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial enrolling subjects with IBS from 8 centers. Subjects positive for ≥1 food on an 18-food IgG assay and an average daily abdominal pain intensity score between 3.0 and 7.5 on an 11.0-point scale during a 2-week run-in period were randomized to either an experimental antibody-guided diet or sham diet for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was a ≥30% decrease in abdominal pain intensity for ≥2 of the last 4 weeks of the treatment period. Among 238 randomized subjects with IBS, 223 were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis. A significantly greater proportion of su
Cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional human studies.
Corsetti M, Shin A, Lacy BE, Cash BD, Simrén M, Schmulson MJ · Gastroenterology · 2026
Bowel disorders (BDs), previously termed functional bowel disorders, are highly prevalent disorders worldwide. These disorders affect individuals across all demographic and socioeconomic groups and have substantial economic consequences, in addition to significantly reducing quality of life. Since the Rome IV publication in 2016, research in the basic and clinical sciences has provided new insights in epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of BDs, creating the need to revise the diagnostic framework of BDs. This article presents the updated Rome V classification of BDs in 6 distinct categories: irritable bowel syndrome, chronic constipation, functional diarrhea, functional abdominal bloating, unclassified BD, and opioid-induced constipation. Each disorder is defined, followed by sections on epidemiology, rationale for changes from prior criteria, clinical evaluation, pathophysiology, and treatment. It is in hope that the Rome V BD Committee will assist clinic
Teterovska R, Skotele RE, Maurina B, Sile I · Nutrients · 2025
Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders associated with increased gastric acid secretion, such as gastroesophageal reflux, dyspepsia, bloating, and abdominal pain, significantly impair quality of life and present a substantial healthcare burden. Conventional therapies may have limited efficacy or undesirable side effects, underscoring the need for safe complementary approaches. This study systematically identifies and reviews the medicinal plants used in food supplements (FSs) marketed in Latvia for digestive health, focusing on the conditions linked to excess gastric acid. A structured literature search was conducted to identify European plant species with proven protective effects on the digestive system or the ability to influence gastric acid levels. A market analysis was performed using the Latvian Food and Veterinary Service FS Register. A total of 218 FS-containing medicinal plants were identified, of which 15 species were included in at least ten products. The most frequently used pl
Rexwinkel R, Vermeijden NK, Zeevenhooven J, Kelder J, Groeneweg M, Hummel T · European journal of pediatrics · 2025 · n=81
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) in adolescents with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional abdominal pain-not otherwise specified (FAP-NOS) in a non-guided setting, resembling clinical practice. This prospective multicenter cohort study conducted in 13 centers included patients aged 12-18 years diagnosed with IBS or FAP-NOS. Patients received educational material on FODMAPs, including extensive lists of high and low FODMAP foods and additional online information. They were instructed to replace high FODMAP foods with low FODMAP alternatives for the duration of 4 weeks. No dietician was consulted. The primary end point was the proportion of patients with treatment success (≥ 30% reduction of abdominal pain intensity) at 4 weeks. The key secondary outcome was adequate relief of IBS/FAP-NOS symptoms. Of the 325 included patients, 81
Preclinical animal research — not a substitute for human evidence.
Aniebo Umoh E, Obembe AO, Ikpi DE, Ekpenyong Eniang-Esien O, Okon Asuquo J, Effiom-Ekaha OO · Heliyon · 2023 · n=19
Recent researches suggests magnesium as an adjuvant medication for COVID 19 patients. Magnesium relaxes skeletal muscles, an effect when prolonged in intestinal smooth muscles can cause severe discomfort such as bloating, vomiting, constipation and nausea. The objectives of this study was to ascertain if magnesium will cause relaxation of the intestinal (ileum) smooth muscles as it does in skeletal muscles. Also, this research seeks to find out the receptor pathway through which magnesium will alter motility in the gut using acetylcholine, atropine and propranolol. Ten male albino wistar rats (100-150 g) were randomly assigned into two groups (control and magnesium treated) (n = 5). Animals were acclimatized for two weeks before treatment which lasted for 6 weeks. Magnesium treated animals received oral magnesium glycinate (1600 mg/70 kg) daily while control group receive normal saline of equal volume. All animals had free access to food and water ad libitum. Result
Public-health agencies: NCCIH, NIH, CDC, NHS.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
NIDDK, part of the NIH, offers comprehensive information on gas in the digestive tract, which is a frequent cause of bloating. The page discusses causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment approaches.
Registered ongoing or completed trials (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Antiparasitic Treatment for Returning Travelers With Chronic Diarrhea
n=100 · NCT01070277 · UNKNOWN · UNKNOWN
Study hypotheses is that Antiparasitic therapy in patients with chronic diarrhea after travel to a developing country, with a negative stool findings, will be significantly effective in eliminating diarrhea and other gastro-intestinal complaints compared to similar patients receiving placebo.
n=84 · NCT07018414 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED
This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of abdominal massage on gastric residual volume (GRV) and abdominal distension in surgical intensive care patients receiving enteral nutrition. The intervention group received 20-minute abdominal massage sessions twice daily for 3 consecutive days. Outcomes included changes in GRV, abdominal circumference, feeding volume, and gastrointestinal tolerance parameters.
n=40 · NCT06516744 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED
This virtual single-group study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Bye Bye Bloat Capsules in relieving hormonal and food-related bloating and promoting healthy digestion. The study will last 4 weeks, involving 40 female participants aged 18+ who will take two capsules after meals and during times of bloating. Measurements and questionnaires will be completed at Baseline, first use, Week 2, and Week 4.
Curated cross-source summaries (TRIP Database and similar).
TRIP Database
TRIP Database is a clinical search engine that allows healthcare professionals to quickly find high-quality research evidence, including guidelines and systematic reviews, related to bloating. It provides a platform for evidence-based decision-making.
Cochrane Library Search: Bloating
Cochrane
The Cochrane Library provides high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making, offering systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials related to bloating. It is a key resource for understanding the efficacy of interventions.
Conventional care for bloating typically involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause. This may include dietary counseling, medications to reduce gas (e.g., simethicone), prokinetics to improve gut motility, or treatments for specific conditions like IBS or SIBO. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment plan.
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This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Persistent or severe bloating, especially with red-flag symptoms, warrants immediate medical evaluation.
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