Foods that make you feel bloated typically are those that cause gas or those which you have a hard time digesting. Some foods are generally harder for most people to digest, such as certain types of vegetables, and others may cause you problems because of a food intolerance. Along with bloating, burping and abdominal pain also are common symptoms of gas. Many foods can be culprits in bloating.
High-Fat Food
Although high-fat food causes less gas than carbohydrates, it can lead to bloating because it can delay stomach emptying, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). High-fat foods include fried foods, fatty meats such as bacon and regular ground beef, poultry with the skin and whole milk dairy products.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits, vegetables and legumes are considered healthy foods, but many of them can cause bloating, as explained by the NIH and the Mayo Clinic website. Fiber and certain sugars can lead to gassiness. These vegetables include artichokes, asparagus, many kinds of beans, dried peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, onions and radishes. Fruits prone to causing bloating include apples, apricots, peaches, pears and prunes. These fruits contain the sugar sorbitol, which can cause gas. Sorbitol also is added to many diet and sugar-free foods.
Dairy Products and Whole Grains
The sugar lactose in dairy products is a common cause of gas, according to the Mayo Clinic, although yogurt and aged cheese might not result in any problems. Additionally, whole grains such as whole wheat, wheat bran and oats also can make you feel bloated.
Carbonation and Air
Carbonated beverages and foods with a lot of air can lead to bloating. They include soft drinks, sparkling water and seltzer water, beer, whipped cream and meringue.
Food Intolerance
Intolerance or sensitivity to foods can make you feel bloated. The most common food intolerances, as listed by the Vegetarian Society, are milk and cheese, eggs, nuts, fish and shellfish, wheat, chocolate, pork, chicken, tomatoes, soft fruits and yeast. Many people also have a sensitivity to gluten, found in wheat, barley and rye, and included in numerous processed foods.
