Bloating Treatment in Pasadena, CA
Bloating is a common digestive complaint that causes the abdomen to feel full, tight, or swollen. While occasional bloating after a large meal is normal, frequent or severe bloating may indicate an underlying digestive condition. It can be uncomfortable and disruptive, leading to abdominal pain, gas, or changes in bowel habits. Because bloating has many possible causes, from food intolerances to imbalances in gut bacteria, personalized evaluation is essential to finding lasting relief.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, led by Kimberley Shine, MD, we take an integrative and functional medicine approach to managing bloating. Dr. Shine works to uncover the root causes of bloating while supporting overall digestive health. Patients receive individualized care that combines nutrition, lifestyle support, and advanced testing to improve comfort and long-term wellness.
Causes and Risk Factors
Bloating may arise from a wide range of factors, including:
- Dietary Choices: High-fat meals, carbonated drinks, or foods that produce gas (like beans or cruciferous vegetables).
- Food Intolerances: Sensitivities to lactose, gluten, or other ingredients.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A condition strongly linked to chronic bloating and discomfort.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalances: Overgrowth of harmful bacteria can disrupt digestion.
- Constipation: Trapped stool and gas increase abdominal pressure.
- Hormonal Changes: Menstrual cycles or menopause may contribute to bloating.
- Stress: Emotional health directly impacts gut function.
Identifying these triggers allows Shine Health and Wellness to create effective, targeted treatment strategies.
Symptoms That Accompany Bloating
Bloating often appears with other digestive issues, which may provide clues about its cause. These can include:
- Excess gas or belching
- Abdominal cramping or discomfort
- Nausea or indigestion
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Fatigue or “brain fog”
Persistent or severe symptoms may signal an underlying condition requiring medical care.
How Bloating Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
- Medical History and Symptom Review: Identifying dietary patterns and triggers.
- Food Sensitivity Testing: Determining intolerances that contribute to bloating.
- Stool Testing: Assessing microbiome health and digestive function.
- Laboratory Testing: Checking for nutrient deficiencies, thyroid issues, or systemic inflammation.
- Imaging Studies: If necessary, ruling out conditions like gallstones or bowel blockages.
This thorough process ensures that care addresses both symptoms and underlying causes.
Treatment Options for Bloating
Treatment depends on the cause but may include:
- Nutritional Counseling: Identifying trigger foods and creating personalized meal plans.
- Gut Health Restoration: Probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary adjustments to balance the microbiome.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Stress management, hydration, exercise, and sleep support.
- Supplements: Digestive enzymes, fiber, or vitamins tailored to individual needs.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Addressing systemic inflammation, hormone imbalances, and gut permeability.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Follow-up visits to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.
This integrative approach provides both immediate relief and long-term improvement.
The Role of Gut Health in Bloating
Gut health plays a central role in bloating. Imbalances in the microbiome or poor digestion can lead to excessive gas, inflammation, and discomfort.
At Shine Health and Wellness, care often includes gut-focused strategies such as probiotics, functional medicine testing, and anti-inflammatory nutrition. Strengthening the gut not only reduces bloating but also improves overall digestive and immune health.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, combines more than a decade of medical experience with a passion for patient-centered care. She takes time to listen, educate, and create individualized treatment plans that address both the root causes and symptoms of bloating. With her integrative and functional medicine training, Dr. Shine provides comprehensive solutions for patients seeking long-term digestive wellness.
Find Relief From Bloating Today
Bloating can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to interfere with your daily life. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team provide compassionate, personalized care to help you uncover the cause of bloating, restore gut balance, and improve comfort. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.