Why You’re Always Bloated (Even When You Eat “Healthy”)

You eat clean. You drink your water. You’ve cut out junk food.
And yet—by midday—you look and feel 6 months pregnant.

Sound familiar?

If you’re searching for causes of bloating South Africa, you’re not alone.
At Ask Dr Olz, bloating is one of the top gut complaints we see—even in women who eat well.

Let’s break down what might really be going on in your gut.

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1. You’re Eating “Healthy” Foods That Are Hard to Digest

Not all healthy foods are right for everyone.
Some common culprits of bloating include:

• Raw veggies (especially broccoli, cabbage, onions)
• High-fiber grains (like quinoa or oats)
• Legumes (beans, lentils)
• Nuts & seeds (in large amounts)

These foods are nutrient-rich but gas-producing, especially if your gut is compromised.

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2. You Might Have SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

In South Africa, SIBO is a rising gut issue we’re seeing in women with:

✅ Persistent bloating (especially after meals)
✅ Constipation or diarrhea
✅ Food intolerances (like garlic or onion)
✅ Nutrient deficiencies (like iron or B12)

SIBO means bacteria have overgrown where they shouldn’t—causing fermentation, gas, and bloating. Testing is key here.

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3. You’re Not Producing Enough Stomach Acid

Yes—low stomach acid, not high, is a leading cause of bloating.

Without proper stomach acid, your body struggles to:

• Break down proteins
• Absorb key minerals (like zinc and iron)
• Kill off unwanted microbes

Low acid is often triggered by stress, antacid use, or aging—and leads to fermentation and gas.

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4. You’re Swallowing Too Much Air

Sounds minor, but habits like:

• Drinking through a straw
• Talking while eating
• Chewing gum
• Drinking carbonated drinks

…can cause you to swallow excess air, leading to bloating, burping, and discomfort.

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5. You Have Blood Sugar Imbalances

Eating “healthy” foods high in carbs (even fruit smoothies or sweet potatoes) can spike insulin.
This spike can lead to bloating, cravings, and sluggish digestion.

Signs of this issue:

• Crashing energy after meals
• Feeling foggy or irritable
• Constant bloating no matter what you eat

Balancing carbs with protein and fat is key.

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🩺 Ask Dr Olz Bloating Protocol (The South African Way)

We don’t hand out laxatives or digestive enzymes without a plan.
Our bloating method is functional, root-cause-based, and tailored for South African women.

Here’s what it includes:

✅ Step 1: Gut Testing

We often recommend:

• SIBO breath test
• Stool test (GI Map or GI360)
• Zonulin levels (to assess leaky gut)

✅ Step 2: Remove the Triggers

We eliminate:

• Gluten, dairy, refined sugar
• FODMAP foods (temporarily)
• Hidden infections like candida or parasites

✅ Step 3: Rebuild the Gut

Using:

• L-glutamine and zinc carnosine (for gut lining repair)
• Probiotics (like Lactobacillus plantarum)
• Digestive bitters or enzymes as needed
• Targeted antimicrobials (for SIBO or yeast)

✅ Step 4: Lifestyle Support

• Chew food thoroughly
• Eat without distractions
• Use warm compresses over the belly
• Practice deep belly breathing

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Causes of Bloating South Africa: What to Do Now

Tired of trying every tea, detox, or supplement with no results?

It’s time to get to the root cause.

👉 Book a virtual Gut Reset Consultation
👉 Shop our trusted gut health support supplements

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💬 Final Word

Bloating isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s your gut asking for help.
Whether it’s SIBO, low stomach acid, or hormone-related, you can heal with the right steps.

With the Ask Dr Olz functional approach, you can say goodbye to daily discomfort—and feel light, energized, and confident again.