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Key Points on How to Get Rid of Bloating from Alcohol

Your body has inner wisdom and knows what can cause harm; in that sense, we should talk about the body's response to drinking. Drinking often leads to the release and retention of gas and the awful feeling of bloating. Bloating is directly related to water and gas retention, which occurs when alcohol enters the body, affects the digestive system, and alters the digestive process. Short-term gas production may be irritating, but long-lasting gas and bloating can be a real problem in a person's life.

9 Minute Read | Published Aug 21 2023 | Updated May 06 2024 Expert Verified
Todd Ludwig
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There are some tricks you can implement to diminish the effects of alcohol on the digestive system, such as drinking enough water before going to a cocktail, reducing the consumption of alcoholic beverages, especially those that are carbonated, and using ginger tea or peppermint tea. By implementing these preventative measures, individuals can combine a healthy relationship with alcohol and an amazing, bloating-free life, with social events no longer being a problem. Notice that even when you could always apply these tricks, bear in mind that the absence of bloating should not be a reason to increase your alcohol consumption.

Do All Alcoholic Beverages Cause Bloating?

If you have doubts about the cause of your bloating, it is a good start to understand that it is a medical fact that alcohol can cause an imbalance in the digestive system, and this, in turn, would lead to gut symptoms. Bloating is one of the undesired consequences of this imbalance.

No, not every alcoholic beverage causes bloating, at least not with the same severity. Some alcoholic drinks can induce the production of gas and bloating more than others. Several factors, such as alcohol type, concentration, carbonation level, and individual tolerance, affect the development of bloating and its severity.

When you are considering how the type of alcohol affects you and which type you can consume without getting bloated or while getting the least possible production of gas, you need to be aware that certain drinks like beer and champagne can exacerbate bloating. On the other hand, clear drinks like gin cause less bloating and gas, and it definitely makes them a good option to consume an alcoholic beverage -in moderation- without the uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

If you are talking about concentration, alcohol mixed with soda water—even with the carbonation—will cause less bloating due to a lower level of alcohol concentration and a clear mix of beverages.

While thinking about the carbonation level in an alcoholic beverage, keep in mind that anything clear and gas-free, as well as anything blended with water or fresh juice, will produce less gas than any form of carbonated drink, which will always produce some level of gas.

When considering an individual's physiology, remember that everyone has a unique predisposition. It is vital to understand your own tolerance and sensitivity to different alcoholic beverages. Everyone's body reacts differently, so this knowledge can help you identify the drink that causes the most bloating and make informed decisions to alleviate discomfort.

Factor to Consider

Influence on Bloating

Key Point

Alcohol Type

Certain drinks may increase and aggravate bloating.

Different alcoholic beverages vary in their effect on bloating.

Concentration

Beverages with lower alcohol concentration may cause less bloating.

Drinks containing less alcohol cause less bloating.

Carbonation Level

Carbonated drinks tend to induce more bloating compared to non-carbonated options.

Carbonation in beverages is associated with increased bloating.

Level of Tolerance

Everyone's tolerance and sensitivity to different alcoholic beverages are different.

Individual differences in tolerance and sensitivity influence how each person reacts to different alcoholic beverages.

Which Are the Alcoholic Beverages that Cause More Alcohol Bloating?

Among all of the types of alcoholic beverages, some cause more bloating. Here is a table of those that produce more gas:

Drink

Description

Mechanism for Producing Alcohol Bloating

Beer

Beer can contribute to bloating, especially when consumed in large quantities.

Bloating from beers is mainly produced from carbonation and carbohydrate contents.

Champagne

Champagne can lead to increased bloating due to its effervescence and carbonation.

Effervescence and carbonation from bubbles can cause gas to accumulate in the gut.

Sugary Cocktails

Cocktails made with sugary mixers or syrups can cause bloating due to their high sugar content.

High sugar content can ferment in the gut, leading to bloating.

Cream Liqueurs

Cream-based liqueurs are high in fat and sugar, which can lead to bloating and discomfort.

It can slow digestion, leading to fermentation and gas production.

Ciders

Some ciders may still contain residual carbonation, contributing to bloating.

Residual carbonation in some ciders and their fermentation process can lead to gas accumulation.

Alcopops

Alcopops' high sugar content and carbonation can lead to bloating.

Contents can ferment in the gut, producing gas and leading to bloating.

High-Proof Spirits

Spirits with a high alcohol content, like whiskey or rum, may cause bloating.

High alcohol content affects the body that can slow down digestion. However, it can also affect the gut microbiome, creating an imbalance.

Fortified Wines

Fortified wines like port or vermouth can contribute to bloating.

Additional alcohol content can slow digestion and fermentation.

How Do You Get Rid of Alcohol Bloating?

To relieve alcohol bloating, a combination of medical and home therapies customized to individual needs are used. When faced with the discomfort of alcohol-related bloating, people frequently seek relief through a variety of methods, such as:

Medical Options:

Some over-the-counter medications, such as antacids or simethicone, can help you feel relieved of different symptoms, such as gas pain and bloating, by dissolving gas bubbles in the digestive system. In cases of extreme gas, your doctor may recommend medication to alleviate the condition. Prokinetics is one option among many that can lessen the likelihood of bloating by improving digestion and intestinal motility. Some over-the-counter options include digestive enzymes, which speed up the digestion of carbohydrates and help minimize gas production, and probiotics, which help restore the balance of the gut microbiota.

Home Remedies:

Hydration is fundamental for any process. Drinking water is always good unless a medical contraindication is present. Keep in mind that water can help your body get rid of toxins, reduce alcohol dehydration, and alleviate bloating symptoms. Herbal teas are among the most popular home remedies; peppermint, ginger, or chamomile have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the digestive system. Another natural remedy could be good for more than bloating, and it is engaging in light physical activity like walking or yoga that can help stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and improve your overall health.

Dietary adjustments are also key in reducing bloating. If you are planning on having some drinks, it would be a good idea to avoid carbonated beverages, high-fat foods, and foods high in sodium.

One of the main keys to avoiding bloating is moderating alcohol intake or abstaining from alcohol. Also, try to consume foods like fennel or pineapple that have natural gas-relieving properties. A warm compress to the abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce bloating discomfort. Mindful eating, including eating slowly, chewing food thoroughly, and avoiding overeating, can prevent excessive gas production and bloating. By incorporating these medical and home remedies into your routine, you can effectively alleviate alcohol bloating and improve digestive comfort.

Quitting Drinking Can Help with Alcohol Bloating?

Yes, it can definitely help you reduce or eliminate bloating. Actually, if you are trying to get completely free of bloating, it is recommended that you limit or quit drinking completely. Due to its gastrointestinal adverse effects, alcohol is a common cause of bloating. Quitting drinking can help you reduce gas, but it may also be beneficial for overall digestive health, promote better hydration, and even boost liver function.

What Should I Do if I Want to Get Rid of Alcohol Bloating but Can’t Stop Drinking?

Seeking treatment is a critical first step if you're having trouble cutting back on alcohol but still want to avoid the unpleasant side effects of alcohol bloating. This is especially true if you think you may have developed an addiction. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and encouragement. They can assist you with changing your alcohol use, reducing bloating symptoms, and treating any underlying causes of your drinking practices with individualized treatments.

Seeking treatment is a proactive step toward improving your health and overall well-being. Whatever challenges you have, you should face them, especially if they are related to your health. Remember that you have all the support you need and are not alone on this journey. 

Help is available in a variety of forms, including medical interventions, support groups, and therapy, so you can regain control of your drinking and prioritize your health. If you need help stopping drinking, check out our Treatment Center Finder.

Resources

bullet National Library of Medicine
"Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Various Systems of the Human Body: A Systematic Review"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Sage Journals
"Alcohol and Gastric Motility: Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Implications"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Springer Link
"Gastrointestinal Disorders Related to Alcohol and Other Drug Use"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Springer Link
"Abdominal Distension and Bloating"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Springer Link
"Alcohol and Its Effects on the Body"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Wiley
"Management of bloating"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
bullet Elsevier
"Tolerance to alcohol: A critical yet understudied factor in alcohol addiction"
Retrieved on May 06, 2024
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