"When we are hungry or when our bodies anticipate food, our bodies produce stomach acid, which is necessary to absorb the nutrients," Lal explained. "When there is stomach acid but no food, that stomach acid can produce gas which can, in turn, lead to bloating."

Why does empty stomach cause gas?

The hungry, empty stomach grows increasingly excited in anticipation of food to the point that when it is fed, it unleashes an enthusiastic torrent of acid for digestion that leaves predisposed people feeling distended, bloated and uncomfortable – no matter what they've eaten.

Why do I get gassy when I don't eat?

This is a two-pronged attack. First: Because many diets feature a disproportionately high amount of foods that require more energy to digest (think raw vegetables and brassicas, like cauliflower and kale), our bodies have to work extra hard to break down a day's eating. This results in bloating and, yep, gas.