Abdominal Bloating
Type: Symptom
Definition
A subjective feeling of severe fullness and physical swelling in the abdominal region.
Clinical Details
The poor absorption of dietary carbohydrates provides a massive fuel source for the bacterial flora residing in the lower digestive tract. As these bacteria rapidly ferment the unabsorbed sugars, they produce excessive amounts of intestinal gas. This trapped gas severely distends the bowel walls, causing painful pressure and visible abdominal swelling.