(And remember: Even if you did gain weight, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.)

What is bloating?

“Bloating often refers to accumulation of gas in the abdomen causing a full or tight feeling.

Merrell Readman

However, bloating itself is not permanent weight gain, nor does it cause it.

The difference between bloating and weight gain.

Weight gain and bloating are because of different things and are therefore largely unconnected.

Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN

One of the biggest differences between bloating and weight gain is the speed at which they come on.

“Weight gain tends not to happen suddenly after eating a meal,” adds Harry.

“While our weight may fluctuate slightly over the day, true weight gain happens over time.”

Harry notes that other common causes of bloating include:

How to prevent bloating.

Even drinking a cup ofchamomile or peppermint tea may keep bloat at bay.

The takeaway.