What is one cause of bloating?

Bloating can occur when a person consumes too much liquid too quickly, leading to an excess of air in the gastrointestinal tract. When liquids are ingested rapidly, they can trap air and create gas bubbles in the stomach, resulting in discomfort and a feeling of fullness or bloating. This situation is exacerbated if the drinks are carbonated, as they introduce additional gas into the digestive system. The overall effect can lead to symptoms such as distension and discomfort in the abdomen.

In contrast, other options focus on factors that may influence digestion but do not directly result in bloating in the same way. For instance, drinking fluids that are too cold may cause some individuals minor discomfort but does not inherently lead to the accumulation of gas. Drinking on an empty stomach typically relates to quicker absorption of fluids rather than a buildup of gas. Lastly, drinking while out of breath is more about the physical act of drinking and less about how it affects gas production or bloating in the stomach. Therefore, the key to preventing bloating primarily lies in moderating the speed and volume of liquid intake, highlighting the importance of drinking at a more manageable pace.