By Dr. David L. Pollack

In my practice, I regularly hear my patients talk about feeling bloated. It’s a very common health complaint, and reactions to it vary widely. Some patients are completely frustrated with it, while others dismiss the mild bloating they experience as no big deal. However, it actually is a big deal. Regardless of the reason behind it, bloating is an indicator that something in the body’s function is compromised. When a patient is bloated, it often means they’re inflamed, and inflammation is known to be the root cause of many health problems and diseases.

Most bloating is rooted in our digestive system, though in some cases, hormonal imbalances can be the culprit. These two broad categories actually encompass dozens of potential functional imbalances.

Digestive Issues

Virtually any part of our digestive tract can be a source of bloating. For example, the stomach lining might be compromised due to stress or poor diet. The gallbladder could have diminished output because of bile that has become thick and sludge-like; this sludge can back up into the pancreatic duct and lower pancreatic enzyme output. The small intestine may harbor SIBO—small intestine bacterial overgrowth—or excess fungal growth, such as candida.

Since approximately 70 percent of immune-system and neurotransmitter production occurs in the small intestine, any imbalance in these functions can lead to bloating. Additionally, any issue in the large intestine, such as constipation, loose stools, or other abnormalities, can cause bloating as well.

Hormonal Imbalance

From a non-digestive perspective, many types of hormone imbalances can cause bloating. This includes thyroid imbalances; both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid conditions can affect digestive function. The adrenal system, which manages our steroid hormones such as cortisol and the precursors to testosterone and estrogen, can have a significant impact on both bloating and digestion. Women often notice that their reproductive hormones have a substantial effect on their digestion and bloating, but men are also affected by the balance of their gonadal hormones.

There are many other associations between physiological function—both digestive and non-digestive—and bloating. In all cases, the bloating can be improved, and often it can be eliminated. Generally, a combination approach of functional medicine techniques, such as enzyme and herbal care, along with dietary modifications, acupuncture, and even bodywork, can help alleviate and often resolve these health issues, whether they are subtle or extreme.

Dr. David L. Pollack is the founder of Pollack Wellness, located at 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com.