Bloating is caused by the buildup of gas in the intestines (the buildup of air in the stomach is called aerophagia).
Gas that builds up in the intestines can cause abdominal pain and flatulence (especially after lunch). This common condition can lead to uncomfortable feelings of bloating and distension, but is generally harmless in most cases.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of bloating can help you better manage these unpleasant sensations. Bloating is caused primarily by the fermentation or putrefaction of certain foods, but it can also occur when air is swallowed while eating, drinking, or talking.
At La Clinique Naturelle in Geneva, we offer a variety of complementary therapies designed to address factors that may contribute to digestive discomfort. Our care is tailored to your symptoms, bowel habits, diet, and overall health, and is always provided in conjunction with medical care when necessary.
Our Approach at Clinique Naturelle
Every situation is different. Two people facing a similar situation may experience it very differently and may not have the same needs.
That is why we always prioritize personalized care. Depending on your situation, one or more complementary therapies may be recommended, and, when appropriate, several therapists may work together to provide you with a comprehensive care plan, always in conjunction with conventional medicine.
Complementary therapies that may be part of your treatment plan:
1. Understanding and Addressing Digestive Factors
2. Understanding Digestion According to Traditional Chinese Medicine
3. Support bowel movements and abdominal comfort
What Makes Our Support So Effective
FAQ – Bloating
Yes, in some people. The digestive system and the nervous system communicate closely through what is known, among other things, asthe gut-brain axis.
Stress can affect digestive motility and the perception of sensations from the gut. It can therefore contribute to the severity of certain digestive symptoms, particularly in people with functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
In some people, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome, certain fermentable carbohydrates—collectively known as FODMAPs —can contribute to gas, bloating, and other digestive symptoms.
However, this does not mean that all foods containing them should be permanently eliminated. When a low-FODMAP diet is recommended, it generally involves a temporary reduction phase followed by a gradual reintroduction to determine individual tolerances.
Bloating after meals can have several causes. The digestion and fermentation of certain foods naturally produce gas, but the amount of gas produced and sensitivity to this bloating vary from person to person.
The composition of a meal, the amount eaten, the speed at which one eats, swallowing air, or an individual’s tolerance for certain foods can also contribute to this feeling of a bloated stomach.
When symptoms become frequent, it may be helpful to observe the circumstances in which they occur in order to identify the contributing factors.
The two are often associated with each other, but they do not refer to exactly the same thing.
Intestinal gas is naturally present in the digestive system and can be released as flatulence or belching.
Bloating refers more to a sensation of pressure, swelling, or fullness in the abdomen. It can be felt even when there isn't a particularly large amount of gas in the intestines.
For some people, their stomach is relatively flat in the morning and then gradually becomes more bloated as the day goes on.
Successive meals, intestinal fermentation, bowel motility, and intestinal sensitivity may contribute to this process. Certain functional digestive disorders may also make the sensation of bloating more noticeable throughout the day.
However, severe or persistent bloating should be evaluated to determine the cause.
Yes. Constipation may be accompanied by bloating, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, or a sensation of incomplete bowel movement.
When bowel movements slow down, these symptoms may become more pronounced. If constipation persists, occurs suddenly, or is accompanied by severe pain or other unusual symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical advice.
Sources and Information
Sources and Medical Information
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
For more information:
- Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) – Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
- NIDDK – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases – Gas in the Digestive System: Symptoms and Causes of Gas and Bloating
- NHS – Bloating: Common Causes, Tips, and Situations That Require Medical Attention
- Monash University – FODMAPs and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Role of Diet in Digestive Symptoms
Last update to this page: August 20, 2026
Further information
Educational articles written by our therapists to help you better understand this topic and answer the most frequently asked questions:
Are the sessions covered by supplemental insurance?
Les séances peuvent être remboursées, en partie, par certaines assurances complémentaires. La prise en charge dépend toutefois de votre contrat, de la thérapie suivie et du thérapeute choisi.
Before your first appointment, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider directly and provide them with the following information:
- le nom du thérapeute ;
- la thérapie concernée.
Les thérapeutes de La Clinique Naturelle disposent de reconnaissances professionnelles qui varient selon leur spécialité, notamment auprès de l’ASCA et/ou du RME. Ces reconnaissances ne garantissent toutefois pas automatiquement le remboursement des séances : seule votre assurance peut confirmer les conditions exactes de votre prise en charge.
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