Bloating

  During peri-menopause and menopause many women experience bloating. Primarily due to hormonal changes, bloating can be extremely uncomfortable. However, bloating can also be caused by factors other than hormones, including gastrointestinal problems.

Hormones have a direct effect on the performance of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to this, during the menopause, the tract doesn't empty as quickly. The drop in oestrogen results in the loss of bile, which lubricates the intestines, when there isn't enough bile to provide lubrication, the stool can become hard and dry and remain inside the body for too long, this can cause bloating and gas.

To make matters worse; Bacteria levels in the intestines, exacerbated by fluctuating hormones, can result in excessive gas.

If a woman isn't eating properly due to the impact of the menopause: anxiety or stress, this can cause bloating.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), can also result in bloating.

Healthier eating, important to us at every stage of life, can make a difference but some of the healthiest foods are know to produce gas and bloating. Foods containing undigested sugar can also cause bloating and gas. Foods that don't result in gas include fats and proteins.