Archive · 8 Aug 2025
NHS Surgeon: Simple Trick to Reduce Bloating and Improve Digestion
Your gut has a natural cleaning cycle called the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC).
It sweeps through your small intestine, removing leftover food and bacteria.
When you snack, you stop this cleaning process.
Eating meals 3-4 hours apart lets the MMC work, which can reduce bloating.
Frequent snacking disrupts this cycle, potentially causing bloating and discomfort.
People with conditions like IBS or SIBO can also benefit from spaced meals, though they may need to consider their specific needs.
Always consult with a healthcare provider.
NHS surgeon Dr. Karan Rajan recommends spacing meals 3-4 hours apart to reduce bloating.
The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) is a wave-like motion that cleans the small intestine between meals.
Snacking pauses the MMC, potentially leading to bloating and discomfort.
Consultant surgical gastroenterologist Dr. Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan confirms the MMC's importance.
Structured meal timings can benefit those with IBS or SIBO, but need to be tailored.
- Who
- Dr. Karan Rajan and Dr. Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan discuss the MMC and its impact on bloating.
- What
- The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) helps clean the small intestine.
- When
- The MMC typically activates every 90-120 minutes after eating has stopped.
- Where
- The MMC occurs in the small intestine.
- Why
- Spacing meals allows the MMC to function, potentially reducing bloating and discomfort.
General Advice
Individualized Approach
Application
General Advice
General recommendations on meal spacing.
Individualized Approach
Individual needs, like IBS or SIBO, need more tailored approaches.
- Main Point
- Spacing meals can reduce bloating.
- MMC Function
- Clears small intestine of debris and bacteria.
- Meal Spacing
- 3-4 hours recommended between meals.
- Expert
- Dr. Karan Rajan (NHS surgeon) and Dr. Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan (gastroenterologist)
- Disruption
- Snacking pauses the MMC cycle.