I say, "Nope, just fat, but thanks for noticing." I then enjoy the look of horror on their face. Mean, but just desserts for asking such a rude, intruding question.

How do you respond to “Are you Pregnant?”?

I'm pretty sure a punch in the face is the right response.

Could be somewhat structural? Lordosis? Hip Flexors?

Just burst out crying while telling them you lost the baby but your hormones aren't back to where they are yet. But seriously, look into hormonal reasons why your shape has changed. That is the only thing that has worked for me, other than overall weight loss, and of course, reducing offending carbs.

I used to always have that type of bloating. Even now, if I eat something that doesn't agree with me, it can return almost instantly, though that is rare. For the most part, now you'd never guess I struggled with that issue. I can seriously and completely relate.

Personally, I have to be 100% dairy-free, legume free, and grain-free. I have found that working on keeping small intestinal bacterial overgrowth under control helps a lot. For me eating 4 or 5 garlic stuffed olives can work wonders in that respect, the garlic having antibiotic capabilities.

I'm also a fan of the Whole30 and other structured plans. They just give you a nice framework.

How's your posture?

I would say, no, I'm not, and you?

I would say that it has to be something that you are eating OR excess estrogen which contributes to the 'pooch' so many women have. Have you made sure to eliminate all chemicals from you cleaning/beauty routine? Parabens synthetic fragrances and the like all can contribute to excess estrogen levels.

I know for me though that it definitely has to do with food. I am 5'4 as well, and 110lbs so pretty thin and hwp. However my lower belly will became so distended that I literally look and feel like I'm 6 months along (make sure to have lots of baggy clothes on hand for these occasions). I know it is dietary because most days it is not this way, but then I will eat something on the go or just not be paying attention and suddenly I look in the mirror and wonder myself when I'm due!

So don't feel bad, I think a lot of women are in the same boat. Since it sounds like you really gave a good-go at eliminating possible problem foods it may be an estrogen issue for you... I would look into getting your hormone levels tested as others have suggested.

Good luck!

There is something you might consider - taking a SIBO (both methane and hydrogen) test.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2089942/Think-youre-bloated-IBS-It-just-Small-Intestinal-Bacterial-Overgrowth-easier-manage.html

Have you tried eliminating FODMAPS? Is the bloat just from gas or are you also constipated?

One word. Planks.

(and I only suggest that based on your other comments in response to the answers you have received.)

Haha... I made this mistake once when I ran into a girl from high school. She had always been fit, this time she was pretty large. Possibly THE worst 'foot-in-mouth' experience of my life. I learned real quick to just neverevereverever ask that question!

sounds like you've done a lot of N=1 research so I'm guessing its just your body type. As someone else said, punch in the face. I had the same issues till I got off the pill (huge difference here) and dairy. The hormones make you crazy! (also an n=1 on that conclusion but it works for me).

Have you tried eliminating bananas, avocado and kiwi's?

I went paleo and were still bloated like crazy then found out that there is a link to birch allergies and those fruits. After stopping those my stomach finally stop being bloated.