10 Causes of Belly Bloat

4. Food Allergies and Intolerance

Conditions such as celiac disease and lactose intolerance may cause belly bloat. In the bodies of people with celiac disease, the immune system perceives gluten as an allergen and damages the lining of the small intestine while trying to eradicate the problematic substance. As such, people with this condition must avoid gluten. Consumption of wheat and other gluten-containing foods causes indigestion, bloating, other uncomfortable or painful gastrointestinal disturbances, and seemingly unrelated symptoms such as headaches, anemia, and loss of bone density. Similar issues arise in people with lactose allergies and intolerances to other foods.