What causes it?
Typically, the main cause of intestinal, stomach and abdominal bloating is directly related to the foods you ingest. Your intestines are home to hundreds of good and bad bacteria and in a healthy individual the amounts balance each other out. When you ingest certain foods high in sugar or gas producing ingredients, the bad bacteria multiply at a rapid pace, causing excess gas and bloating. Lack of water intake and exercise also contribute to bloating and gas issues.
What foods cause it?
Foods that are high in sugars are the main and foremost cause of bloating and gas in the belly and intestines. Lactose, the sugar found in milk, is the predominant cause of bloating in adults. Lactose causes bloating as it is very hard for the body to digest it before it reaches the intestinal tract, bringing in a large amount of undigested sugars that the bacteria feed on. Within no time the belly and intestines will begin to bloat. Other foods that contribute to gas and bloating are:
Vegetables: peas, onions, broccoli, radishes, cabbage, asparagus, carrots and celery
Fruits: apples, most dried fruit, prunes, oranges and peaches Fibre: Oatmeal and heavy grains Sugars: Any large quantity of sugar, sodas, dairy
What can you do?
An important thing to consider when dealing with bloating is that regardless of efforts, sometimes the body will naturally bloat. Minimizing sugars, wheat, dairy and sodium are key factors in reducing the chances of bloating and the severity of it. If you are prone to bloating issues, introducing a digestive enzyme with your meals will help to reduce the amount. Remember to always drink plenty of water and take your time while eating, being sure to chew your food thoroughly.
Some foods that assist in reducing bloating are:
Bio Yogurt: high in probiotic bacteria Pinapple: high in bromelain, an enzyme that helps break down protein Mint: add as flavour to food to reduce salt intake
Banana: High quantity of potassium helps to balance your bodys fluid levels.
Natural Herbs: Foeniculum Vulgare (Sweet Fennel) Pulsatilla Vulgaris (Pasque Flower)

Yoga and Bloating
Certain yoga poses are very beneficial for bloating issues. Yoga assists in increasing the bodys blood flow and circulation throughout the body. Some poses will increase this flow specifically within the digestive tract to help stimulate intestinal action and digestion. Yoga is also very soothing and calming for the body and mind, allowing your digestive system to relax and work more efficiently. Hot yoga is especially cleansing for the body and bloating as it increases the blood circulation to a greater level. As the body heats up and the blood is flowing it allows for easier digestion and in turn less bloating and gas. Finding space in your lower abdomen, such as forward bends and downward dog, help the release of entrapped gases, thus bringing bloating to a minimum.