Bloating that develops after eating noodles may be nothing more than a side effect of eating fiber. Bloating is the feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen that causes your waistline to swell from increased gas trapped in your digestive tract. If the bloating continues or gets worse, call your doctor for an evaluation. Other reasons for chronic bloating after eating noodles may include food intolerances and celiac disease.
Fiber Content
If noodles are made from whole grains, they may contain significant amounts of dietary fiber. Fiber is the part of plant-based foods that cannot be digested by the body. While fiber has no real nutritional value, the undigested carbohydrates help keep your digestive system regular by adding bulk and softening stool. If you aren't accustomed to eating high-fiber foods, you may develop gas, stomach pain and bloating after eating noodles that are fiber rich. Bloating that is the result of increased fiber will subside in a few hours. MedlinePlus recommends that you eat between 20 and 35 grams of fiber daily.
Food Intolerances
A food intolerance occurs when your digestive system doesn’t have the appropriate enzymes to digest a component of the food you eat. Noodles may contain certain ingredients, including eggs, lactose and milk proteins, that commonly trigger food intolerances. A food intolerance is not the same thing as a food allergy. Food allergies are caused by a malfunction of the immune system, while food intolerances are the result of a deficiency in the digestive system. Common symptoms include bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach pain and cramping. There is no cure for food intolerances aside from avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.
Celiac Disease
If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, you must avoid eating noodles and all forms of pasta unless the food product is certified gluten-free. Celiac disease is a chronic condition in which your immune system attacks the protective lining of the digestive system when you eat gluten. Gluten is a protein found in barley, rye, wheat and sometimes in oats. This condition can lead to serious health complications and requires treatment from a medical doctor. Bloating is a common result of eating noodles that contain gluten if you have celiac disease.
Considerations
Chronic bloating may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as bowel obstruction, cancer or Crohn’s disease. If you notice blood in your vomit or stools, call your doctor right away.
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