Do Blackberries Cause Bloating?

Blackberries are high in fiber and antioxidants that promote health. Not everyone who eats blackberries develops bloating, but if you notice that after eating blackberries you feel bloated, your digestive system might be sensitive to gas-forming foods. Consider a food allergy if you experience extreme bloating accompanied by other symptoms.

Causes of Gas

During digestion, the foods you consume break down into simpler forms so that the body can absorb the nutrients and store fat and proteins for energy. Part of the digestive process is the development of vapors and gases. Most of the gases are expelled through belching or passing gas. Whatever gas remains in the gastrointestinal system builds up and causes bloating. Bloating causes you to feel full, your waist line to grow temporarily and a feeling of tightness to develop in your lower abdomen. Generally, bloating is a normal part of digestion.

Fiber in Blackberries

Blackberries are high in fiber, containing 4 grams in a half cup, according to GoodHousekeeping.com 1. Fiber is the portion of the blackberry that is indigestible by the human body. Fiber helps to add more bulk to your stools, soften the stools and promote digestive regularity. The downside to eating more fiber in your diet is that it can cause short-term side effects, such as bloating, gas and abdominal pain. Most symptoms subside after eating a high-fiber diet for three days. If your symptoms remain or get worse, call your doctor for an evaluation.

Food Allergy or Intolerance

In some cases, extreme and chronic bloating from eating blackberries is a sign of a food allergy or intolerance 4. Food allergies cause minor to severe symptoms throughout the body because of a hypersensitivity of the immune system. Intolerances differ because they occur when the digestive system lacks certain enzymes needed to effectively digest certain aspects of blackberries. Food intolerances do not affect the immune system and primarily cause digestive complications.

Other Possible Causes

Other factors also cause bloating. Avoid eating blackberries when you’re under stress or have anxiety. You might have a digestive infection, blockage in the intestines or a chronic disease. If you notice that you develop chronic diarrhea or constipation from eating blackberries, you might have a condition called irritable bowel syndrome.