The 15 Causes of Bloated Belly You Should Be Aware Of

Dairy

Abdominal bloating may also appear as a sign of lactose intolerance, especially if it occurs after consuming milk, ice cream, cheese, butter, sour cream, and yogurt. People who cannot properly digest lactose or the sugar in milk and other dairy products may experience gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating. Although the condition is often harmless, its manifestations can be uncomfortable.

The small intestine produces an enzyme called lactase, which is responsible for digesting dairy. If lactase levels are too low, lactose intolerance happens each time a person eats or drinks milk and its byproduct. The signs and symptoms start to come forward about 30 minutes after consumption.

Most people could live with lactose intolerance without giving up dairy altogether, but for some, the symptoms could be too much to handle. However, people should understand how this condition differs from the more serious ailment of an allergy to dairy. While the former causes mild symptoms, the latter could have severe effects, including bloody stools and hives.