How To Get Rid Of Bloating And Find Digestive Relief, According To An Expert

Anja Kordic
and
Jasmine Williams
May 03, 2024
how to get rid of bloating

Bloating is a common digestive issue that can make you feel sluggish, uncomfortable, and self-conscious. While bloating is often caused by overeating, there are other factors that can contribute to this uncomfortable sensation, such as consuming gas-producing foods or experiencing hormonal changes.

The thing is that bloating happens to the best of us so it doesn't mean you're weird if you haven't figured out what's causing your tummy issues. Between weight fluctuations and hormonal changes post-birth, I still haven't cracked the 'happy digestive system' code. But, that lack of knowledge is no match for the expertise of Dr. Brynna Connor, MD — a Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWest Pharmacy.

Based in Austin, Texas where she has her own private practice, Dr. Connor is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Practice, the American Academy of Family Practice, and the Texas Medical Association. In other words, she has nearly two decades worth of medical experience that makes her the right person to answer all our "How to get rid of bloating" questions.

Whether you're dealing with the occasional bloat or chronic digestive issues, Dr. Connor has expert tips to help you find relief and get back to enjoying healthy meals that your body loves.

How can I tell if I'm bloated?

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

Before I became a mom, it was easy for me to recognize the immediate signs of bloating. I only experienced it during PMS and the week of my cycle, but it always went away for a few weeks. Not only that, I used to be able to pinpoint which foods were the culprit of horrific period cramps and the inevitable gassiness that seemed to make my cycles 10x worse. Now, things are up in the air and I'm joining the ranks of other curious women who want to know what's considered bloating.

Dr. Connor says, "There are various symptoms a woman may experience if she’s bloated. Bloating may make you feel like your stomach is tight or full and can cause abdominal pain, swollen/distended stomach, flatulence, belching, and/or stomach cramps. It’s not uncommon to experience multiple symptoms of bloating at once."

I don't think I need to mention just how uncomfortable things can feel when experiencing multiple bloating symptoms.

What triggers bloating symptoms?

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I mentioned my daily cycle as one of the reasons I knew I used to experience bloating, but there are more things that can trigger it. "Bloating occurs when your gastrointestinal or digestive system(s) are filled with gas or liquid and there are six common potential causes," says Dr. Connor.

She lists having gas as one of the first reasons. "It’s normal to experience symptoms of excess gas, especially after eating and/or drinking as you may have also swallowed small amounts of air. Certain factors may increase the likelihood that you experience bloating after eating, such as chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, and/or eating or drinking too fast."

Hearing this reminds me of the moments I was told to slow down when eating my food as a little girl.

Image via Maksim Goncharenok/Pexels

There's also the chance that you have a food intolerance. I only speak for myself when I say that I'm only able to consume dairy in small increments and tomato sauce? Well, I can just forget that because lately my stomach skips bloating and heads right to nausea. What gives, you ask?

Dr. Connor says, "You can experience bloating if your digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. Common food intolerances that can lead to bloating include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and/or fructose intolerance." Feeling mind-blown about possibly having a fructose intolerance? Same here, but Dr. Connor explains what happens when our body breaks down certain foods.

"There are also chemicals found in particular foods that can increase the chances of bloating after they’re ingested, including histamine (found in wine and cheese), caffeine, alcohol, sulfites (found in beer and wine), and monosodium glutamate (MSG – found in ripe fruit and cured meat)," she says.

If you're hearing someone play the world's smallest violin, it's me mourning the fact that my two greatest loves — wine and cheese — may not be the best things to consume together.

Image via Miriam Alonso/Pexels

I can say it's been a while since I've been constipated, but only because my doctor all but demanded that I start taking probiotics and eating more probiotic-rich foods. Still, it always sucks when constipation happens which explains the bloating that tends to follow.

"When your large intestine absorbs too much water from your stool, it becomes harder and more difficult to pass. The resulting buildup of stool in your colon can lead to bloating, swelling, and stomach/abdominal pain, and you’re particularly susceptible to constipation if you’re not getting enough fiber, water, or exercise. Changes to your daily routine or an increased level of stress can also contribute to constipation and bloating," says Dr. Connor.

Somehow this is oddly comforting to know that stress can also be a culprit.

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Like I mentioned before, starting your period is one of the reasons you can experience bloat. What Dr. Connor says next will occupy a space in your mind if you're never considered what happens during that special time of the month.

"Certain hormones, like estrogen, can cause your body to hold onto water, which can cause swelling in the abdomen. Estrogen can also interact with progesterone in your digestive system, leading to increased gas in your intestines. Bloating prior to your period may also be caused by the increase in volume in your uterus just before your period starts," she says.

Image via Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

I've been prescribed different medications after two of my surgeries and found that I experienced unusual bloating that led to horrific cycles. Dr. Connor says there's a reason why certain medications or supplements can cause this to happen.

"...fiber supplements can cause bloating or constipation when the supplement isn’t taken with enough water. Other medications that can lead to bloating and/or constipation include opioids like hydrocodone or oxycodone, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, iron supplements, and antihistamines like Benadryl," she offers.

Although I no longer take Benadryl, I can confirm I experienced a ton of bloating when trying to combat my allergies.

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels


Lastly, Dr. Connor says there could be underlying medical reason you're experiencing bloating. "People living with gastrointestinal diseases like Celiac Disease, an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to experience bloating, excess gas, and constipation."

She also says, "Underlying liver disease or cancers can also cause bloating in the abdomen, which is why you should talk to your doctor if you are experiencing prolonged symptoms associated with bloating, or if you’re having any additional symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, or pelvic pain, blood in your stool, difficulty swallowing, or any excess fatigue or unexplained weight loss."

What are some ways to reduce bloating in general and during PMS/menstrual cycles?

Image via KoolShooters/Pexels

Dr. Connor says managing bloating can depend on what's triggering your symptoms. It's always best to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you concerned about your digestive health, but there are things you can do at home to provide some relief.

"At-home solutions include over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Gas-X or antacids that can be taken together or separately. Probiotics can also help reduce gas and restore the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract. Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile tea, or turmeric, can aid digestion, and peppermint oil can help relax muscles in the stomach that aid in the passing of gas."

She also suggests that you increase your fiber intake, incorporate exercise in your routine, and stay hydrated.

By taking steps to reduce bloating, you can improve your overall health and feel more comfortable in your daily life.

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This post has been updated.

Header photo by Anete Lusina/ PEXELS

Why We Lose Flexibility As We Age — And How to Get It Back

Even if you weren’t exactly in line for the Olympic gymnastics team as a kid (another reason Simone Biles is so impressive, honestly), chances are, you look back on those days as ones of your peak flexibility. Like running, remembering things, and making new friends, bending gradually gets harder as you age. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep your flex! Here’s why you lose your bendiness — and how to get it back.


Why Your Flexibility Stalls

Brit + Co

As though going through puberty weren’t enough of a struggle, it’s also the time when you start to lose your natural flexibility. “No one is more flexible in their life than they are as a child,” says Dr. Leython Williams, a doctor of physical therapy at Athletico Physical Therapy. “However, during puberty, children often become temporarily less flexible. Some children have slow growth spurts, while others grow very quickly. This temporary decrease in muscle length/flexibility is a result of their bones growing faster than their muscles and tendons can stretch.”

Note that Dr. Williams refers to this particular loss of flexibility as temporary — meaning we can’t blame puberty for the fact our toes seem to be getting farther away every time we try to touch them.

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“There is no specific age when we wake up and our flexibility has ‘officially declined.’ However, it is a fact that as we age our flexibility decreases, which leads to decreased functional ability and mobility,” he explains. “As our bodies get older, we lose a small amount of flexibility as a result of the normal aging processes. There is loss of water in our tissues and intervertebral discs, increased stiffness in our joints, and a loss of elasticity in muscles and tendons. In our 20s and 30s, it is important that we develop a consistent static and dynamic stretching regimen to establish and maintain flexibility and range of motion more easily into our older years.”

That’s right: What you do now matters later. And this isn’t just about keeping up in yoga, Dr. Williams cautions. “It becomes imperative that we stretch regularly to decrease our likelihood of various injuries.” Jill Belland, co-founder of Barre Belle, agrees. “It’s easy to feel invincible if you’re young and injury free! Flexibility will reduce your risk of injury: What doesn’t bend will break. Increased range of motion, balance, and mobility are all linked to flexibility and contribute to overall strength and fitness.”

How to Get It Back

Brit + Co

When you’re a kid, flexibility comes naturally; when you’re an adult, you have to take responsibility for improving and maintaining it. “Peak flexibility age for adults can differ person to person and depends largely on their physical activity habits,” says Dr. Rachelle Reed, PhD, Pure Barre’s manager of training development and barre kinesiologist. “Notably, flexibility can be improved at any age when flexibility training is incorporated into a regular exercise routine. It’s important for adults to be strategic about including flexibility training into their workouts, because maintaining flexibility and physical function as we move into middle and older adulthood is associated with better quality of life and independent living.”

There’s no one flexibility standard everyone has to meet, Belland reassures: “There is no golden rule for what perfect flexibility is person to person, but there are simple markers such as touching your toes from a forward fold for hamstrings/lower back, or reaching for your hands behind your back, with one hand behind the head and the other behind the waist, for shoulder mobility. You don’t need to be a contortionist; moving around with fluidity in your everyday life and having good range of motion in your favorite activities without feeling pain or tension is a better way to gauge your own personal goals.”

Brit + Co

But where do you start if you want to improve your flexibility? Dr. Reed explains, “There are two main types of flexibility training that you should aim to incorporate into your routine: Dynamic stretching, where a stretch is performed by moving through a challenging but attainable range of motion several times in a row, and static stretching, where a stretch is held in a challenging but attainable position for a longer period of time (at least 10-30 seconds).”

How do you know how far to go? “Our muscles have a natural stretch reflex that prevents us from going too far into a stretch, which can also cause injury,” Belland tells us. “Aim to gently stretch through this reflex. The key to increasing flexibility is about time under tension: It takes around 20 seconds to ease through the stretch reflex. Reintroduce the stretch and hold it for 10 seconds longer, working up to one minute. The second time you introduce a stretch, the stretch reflex will diminish, allowing your body to get deeper into your stretch and also building better muscle memory.”

Brit + Co

If you’re still worried about injuring yourself — especially if you’ve been injured in the past — Dr. Williams recommends seeing a physical therapist for guided stretches. Belland reminds us that you don’t have to go to the gym or spend hours on stretching. “Stretch a little bit every day when you can fit it in after a workout or in front of the TV. If you just don’t think you’ll stretch on your own, getting to a yoga or a barre class is helpful if you need the accountability of a dedicated time and space.”

Speaking of the gym, just as your phys ed teacher told you, stretching is especially important before and after a workout. “Far too often active individuals begin their workouts without a dynamic stretch,” Dr. Williams says. “Dynamic stretching increases one’s range of movement and blood flow to soft tissues prior to physical exertion and/or sport performance. This type of stretching is vital in improving performance and reducing the risk for injury.”

But you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit — in fact, stretching is an important antidote to all that sitting those of us with desk-based jobs tend to do. “Sitting at your desk all day can lead to decreased flexibility in hip flexors and hamstrings by keeping them in a shortened position for a prolonged period of time,” Dr. Williams warns. “Consider a standing desk or work station or taking several breaks throughout your work day to stand up and stretch.”

Instead of looking back on your kid-level flexibility as a long-ago dream, mix in a little bit of stretching into your new daily routine — especially if you work at a desk! You might never get your legs behind your head, but your older self will thank you for it. Check out The Best Time to Stretch During Your Workout for more!

Lead image via Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

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I Finally Found A Dewy Moisturizer To Save My Super Dry Skin

As fall inches closer and closer, I'm only further anticipating that dry, flaky texture that my skin tends to get almost every single year. This year, I decided to try and get ahead of it by trying one of TikTok's favorite, dewy moisturizer at the moment — the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream. Influencers and makeup gurus alike claim this is the dewiest, creamiest moisturizer on the market, so having loved Tatcha's products in the past, I decided to give this one a go. Here's what I thought about it!

About Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

Kayla Walden

First, let's talk about the packaging, because this design really is elite. Did you know that by sticking your fingers into your moisturizer, you could be causing breakouts on your skin? The bacteria from your fingers, or existing breakouts, is going straight into the jar, which could cause worse breakouts and bacteria to end up on your skin. So by using this tool that they include, you can rest easy knowing that no bacteria is getting into your product. Make sure to clean after every use, as well!

The formula itself has Japanese purple rice and hyaluronic acid which will help protect the skin barrier and moisturize!

My Review Of Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

Kayla Walden

Upon first application of the product, I noticed how extremely thick it is. It's a very heavy formula, but when I rubbed it into my skin, it almost felt wet. Unlike other thicker moisturizers, my skin wasn't sticky after use, signaling to me that my skin fully absorbed the product in a matter of minutes.

I love the thickness of this moisturizer, because my skin is extremely (I'm talking Sahara desert) dry, and it's often that I use moisturizers...only for my skin to still feel dry just a few short minutes after. But this product absorbed into my skin wonderfully, giving me the more even, deep coverage I've been looking for. Needless to say, it really has a good consistency and formula.

Kayla Walden

I tried this cream for a week, testing out its ability as a primer and as a nighttime moisturizer.

At night, I wore it right before I went to bed to see if my skin would be still smooth in the morning or dry. When I woke up, I almost wanted to squeal because I noticed right away my skin didn't have a tight, dry texture like it normally does. It stayed perfectly supple all night. Obviously the product absorbed into the skin, but it also didn't leave a dry barrier behind like most moisturizers have in the past for me.

I also love using this moisturizer as a primer for my makeup. I waited a few minutes before applying my normal makeup routine, and it blended effortlessly together!

The Final Verdict On The Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

Kayla Walden

My final verdict is: the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream is unfortunately very worth the hype. I haven't liked a moisturizer this much in quite a while, and I was very impressed with this one's thickness, durability, and all-around product design. From the smart packaging, to the unique scent, and the impressive consistency, this moisturizer is an all-around win for me. I genuinely have no notes for this product. They have a life-long customer in me!

Shop The Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

Tatcha

Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

You can shop the incredible and moisturizing cream on Amazon now for only $21! Make sure to stock up on this favorite while it's on sale at Amazon!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Tatcha

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5 Activities That Are Safe To Do During A Heat Wave

Summer is officially here, bringing on the beach days, barbecues, and...heat waves. As much as you've been dreaming about having a fun picnic in the sun, there will definitely be those scorching hot days where you'll have to balance your health and your happiness.

Not to worry though! Dr. John Kiel DO, MPH, FACEP, CAQ-SM, a physician at the USF Morsani College of Medicine/Tampa General Hospital, has a few of helpful tips to help keep you safe and healthy in case you're faced with a heat wave. And trust us, he has amazing credentials to back them up — Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Associate Professor of Sports Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine — so you're in good hands!

Plus, we have plenty of heat wave-friendly activities, so you can still have all the fun while you're staying cool. Let's get into it!

How can a heat wave affect your health?

Ketut Subiyanto

We all know that too much of a good thing can ultimately be harmful, and that definitely rings true for the summer heat and its sometimes extreme temperatures.

"Abnormally hot weather, as seen in a heat wave, increases the risk of heat-related illness. Heat-related illnesses range from mild conditions such as sunburn and heat rash to major conditions such as heat syncope, heat exhaustion, rhabdomyolysis (a breakdown of muscle tissue that releases myoglobin into the blood) and even heat stroke," Dr. Kiel says.

If you're wondering if there's a reason why these things can happen, it is. Dr. Kiel says, "During a heat wave, the body's ability to properly regulate temperature is challenged in the same way it is more difficult for a car or home air conditioner to cool off the interior."

It's the reason he stresses the importance of being mindful of when heat waves occur so you can take the necessary precautions to mitigate any heat-related illnesses.

How can adults and children remain safe during heat waves?

Anastasia Shuraeva

As a mom to a toddler with eczema, spending prolonged time outdoors has become challenging so I can only imagine how we'd both we affected by a heat wave.

Dr. Kiel says, "Remaining safe during a heat wave can be difficult, and the prevention of heat-related illness is much more effective and safer than treatment. The most effective methods to remain safe are education for adults and children in high-risk areas."

He recommends that everyone try to stay indoors during a heat wave's peak hours — between 10 A.M. and 5 P.M. "If that is not possible, it is important to use both chemical (sunscreen) and physical (long sleeve, loose fitting clothing) protection against the sun and to take frequent breaks to cool off and hydrate," he recommends.

In terms of staying cool, Dr. Kiel says to stay in air conditioned or shaded areas, use fans, and decrease too much exertion and physical activities outdoors.

"Families and communities should also be particularly attentive to individuals at risk of heat-related illness, namely the elderly and young children," he reminds.

Fun & Safe Activities To Do During a Heat Wave

Cora Pursley/Dupe

Visit A Museum

I have fond memories of visiting museums during the summer, especially when I've been able to check out unique, limited-time exhibits that pique my interests. It's a great way to get out of the heat and find creative inspiration!

Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels

Go Bowling

Whether you're bowling for fun or in the mood for friendly competition with your friends, bowling is always a fun activity to do during a heat wave. You may work up a sweat as you aim for an epic strike, but you'll be nice and cool since you'll be indoors.

Sam Lion

Spend An Afternoon Window Shopping

Our wallets may be on edge the entire time, but window shopping is so therapeutic — and it's even better if you're with a group of your friends! You can see the latest fashion, beauty, and home decor trends in person without spending anything. But, we won't judge you if you can't leave the new Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Highlighter or Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm behind!

Haley Sprankle

Catch A Summer Movie

We just found the perfect nostalgic summer date activity to do — going to the movies. It's such a simple date that doesn't require much, but it'll become a core memory for you and your S.O. or your friends!

I don't know what it is, but I can remember everything that happened on the days my S.O. and I saw new movies at our local theater. It could be something that reminds us of our carefree days, or it could stir up feelings of intimacy between us. Whatever it is, make going to the movies a priority this summer!

Haley Sprankle

Make Frozen Cocktails To Sip At Home

You never need a reason to enjoy a cute and delicious frozen cocktail, but experiencing a heat wave will inspire you to try some of the recipes you've seen on Pinterest.

Want something that's refreshing, but also has a bit of a kick? Try making Strawberry Jalapeno Margaritas for you and your friends.

Follow us on Pinterest for more summer tips and activities!

Lead image via Emily Patnaude/Dupe

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The 'Twilight' TV Show Is Officially Coming To Netflix, Loca!

We'll cut to the chase — The Hollywood Reporter announced in April 2023 that a Twilight TV show was in the works at Lionsgate Television, and we officially feel like we're living in the 2000s again. The Twilight series, based on the novels by Stephanie Meyer, were released from 2008-2012. As far as we're concerned, between Twilight and Harry Potter (which is also getting a TV series reboot FYI), this was the golden age of realistic fantasy, midnight premieres, and the classic tank top + Henley tee + cargo jacket combo.

Amidst the baby Renesmee memes and Twilight rewatch parties, it's clear that this is a new kind of Twilight zone that's here to stay. So regardless of whether you're Team Edward or Team Jacob — a discussion we're pretty sure will go on until the end of time — all Twihards will want to stay up-to-date with this brand new Twilight TV show. And don't forget to check out our 5 Fall Outfits Inspired By Twilight and our take on the Sofia Coppola Twilight Movie That Almost Happened.

Are they rebooting Twilight?

Summit Entertainment

On September 5, 2024, Variety confirmed that a Twilight TV show is coming to Netflix, and that it'll be based on Stephanie Meyer's 2020 Midnight Sun, which retells the story of Twilight from Edward's point of view.

When Lionsgate vice chairman Michael Burns revealed during a Q&A the studio was shopping the series around to different networks, he also revealed a very important piece of information — the show will be a cartoon. “We’re going to go out with the Twilight series, an animated series, I think there’ll be a lot of interest in that," he says.

Initially I was hesitant about the idea of an animated Twilight, but I'm actually very interested to see how the show comes together stylistically. Animation will be able to capture the magic, romance, and style of the story in a totally different way than live action, and I am really just curious to see how they'll animate Edward in the sun.

Who's writing the Midnight Sun show?

Summit Entertainment

Sinead Daly (who has worked on titles like Tell Me Lies and The Walking Dead: World Beyond) will write and produce the new series.

Who else is involved?

Summit Entertainment

Stephanie Meyer, Meghan Hibbett, Marty Bowen, and Wyck Godfrey (a producer of the Twilight series) will all serve as executive producers.

Will Kristen Stewart return as Bella?

Summit Entertainment

We don't have any plot or cast details at the moment, but if the original book series is getting a new adaptation, it's safe to assume a different actress will play the lead role.

In an episode of Josh Horowitz's Watchalong podcast, Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke says she thinks Jenna Ortega and Jacob Elordi would make an amazing Bella Swan and Edward Cullen if she was casting the Twilight series today.

“I mean, [Jacob's] amazing. He probably would be Edward today,” she says, before continuing, “I do think there’s a lot of really cool young actors today. Of course, you just mentioned Jenna Ortega, she’s amazing.”

What is the new Twilight spin-off?

Image via Summit Entertainment/IMDb

Stephanie Meyers published Midnight Sun in 2020, and this novel retells the story of Twilight from Edward Cullen's perspective.

Will they make a 6th Twilight?

Summit Entertainment

Right now, there are no plans to add to the existing Twilight series. But we're excited to see this new Midnight Sun TV show!

When did Twilight 4 come out?

Summit Entertainment

Breaking Dawn was published in 2008 — the same year that the first Twilight movie came to theaters. The movie adaptations of Breaking Dawn were released in two parts in 2011 and 2012.

Does Jacob marry Renesmee?

Andrew Cooper/Summit Entertainment

In a move that shocked Twilight fans (and the rest of the general public, TBH), Jacob imprints on baby Renesmee in Breaking Dawn: Part Two. The two are friends until Renesmee becomes an adult and they fall in love. The craziest part? THAT'S why Jacob had feelings for Bella the whole time: he actually had feelings for Renesmee, she just hadn't been born yet. Do with that information what you will.

Check back here for more Midnight Sun TV show updates, and let us know if you want to return to Forks in the comments!

Lead image via Summit Entertainment/IMDb

This post has been updated.

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Taylor Swift Teased 'Reputation (Taylor’s Version)' (Again)

I am the opposite of a casual Reputation fan. Four of my five most-listened-to songs on Spotify (like, of all time) are from the 2017 album, I wore a Rep-inspired outfit to my Eras Tour show, and I am constantly analyzing (and talking about) its symbolism. I stand by the fact that this album, as misunderstood as it is, is actually the key to understanding Taylor Swift herself, which is why its rerelease is the one I've been most looking forward to. With TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Reddit, it feels like there's a new theory every day about when we'll get Reputation (Taylor's Version), but I'm pretty sure Taylor's been telling us the announcement date for awhile.

When is Taylor Swift releasing Reputation (Taylor's Version)?

Image via Source Pictures & Taylor Swift Productions

The cappuccino Easter egg from the "Karma" music video.

We don't have an official Reputation (Taylor's Version) release date yet, but all signs were originally pointing to an announcement on February 16, 2024. When the music video for "Karma" from Midnights came out, featuring a shot of Taylor holding a cappuccino, Swifties clocked that the blue nail (which represents 1989 (Taylor's Version)) lines up with the 8 on the clock, and the black nail lines up with the 2. Taylor ended up announcing 1989 TV on August 9 — and then announced The Tortured Poets Department(also known as TS11) at the 2024 Grammys in February!

The latest theory revolves around an August 20 announcement and September 13 drop. After Taylor was spotted in a semi-green 'fit with a Vivienne Westwood Tuesday bag, fans began wondering if it was a clue for a Tuesday album announcement. The last Tuesday show in London is Tuesday, August 20, which is also the last show until October. This would be the perfect amount of time for Taylor to have announced the album and to drop it on September 13, which is the second to last Friday the 13th of the year!

The other Friday the 13th is December 13, which is Taylor Swift's birthday. The popstar had the date front and center in her Tortured Poets Department pop-up installation. Since the date falls on a Friday, it's the perfect day to drop some new music...If you ask me, that's when we're getting Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) — because there is literally no better combo than Taylor's birthday, Friday the 13th, and Taylor taking her name back.

Are there any other clues that Reputation (Taylor's Version) will come out next?

Image via Amy Sussman

Taylor Swift attends the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 07, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California.

At her first NFL appearance of 2024, for the KC Chiefs' season opener on Thursday September 5, Taylor Swift wore a denim corset and shorts set with bold, thigh-high red boots. Fans immediately made the connection between this 'fit and what Taylor wears in the "Look What You Made Me Do" music video. This is like a wink from Taylor — I don't think she's giving us direct clues about Reputation (Taylor's Version), but it feels like a reminder that the album is still on its way!

Taylor also showed up to the 81st Golden Globe Awards in an all green ensemble, which is already so Reputation-coded to begin with. However, fans noticed one teeeeeeeny tiny detail about her look that really leans into all the theories that Rep (TV) is next. If you zoom in on her rings, one of them is a snake that's wrapped around her finger. 🐍

And after Taylor Swift released a video teasing her new album(TTPD), Swifties are analyzing all the snakeskin patterns (on the curtains, the floor, and the green couch), as well as the dark visuals. While the video moves from the dark room to a bright one for TTPD, I'm convinced we'll be returning — or continuing down the hallway where you can see a dark picture frame waiting for us...

A recent Disney+ ad that paired the Eras Tour film and Disney Pixar's Cars went viral on Twitter because its tagline is "Getaway Car," one of the most beloved songs on Reputation (Taylor's Version)! No matter when the album drops, having Taylor Swift's final two re-recordings be her name and her reputation is literally so iconic and I can't wait to listen.

What Taylor Swift songs are on Reputation (Taylor's Version)?

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

We know that, based on previous re-recordings, Reputation (Taylor's Version) will have the original tracklist and an unknown number of vault tracks that Taylor wrote ahead of the Reputation era. PEOPLE also confirmed we'll be able to hear Taylor Swift's "Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor's Version)" in the new docuseries for the New England Patriots! You can also hear a snippet in the trailer for Ashley Benson's Wilderness ;). Simone Biles also used "Ready For It?" in her Olympics floor routine!

Here's what you can expect on Taylor Swift's Reputation (Taylor's Version). I'm really hoping the vault tracks include "I Don't Want To Live Forever"!

  1. "Ready For It? (Taylor's Version)"
  2. "End Game (Taylor's Version)"
  3. "I Did Something Bad (Taylor's Version)"
  4. "Don't Blame Me (Taylor's Version)"
  5. "Delicate (Taylor's Version)"
  6. "Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor's Version)"
  7. "So It Goes... (Taylor's Version)"
  8. "Gorgeous (Taylor's Version)"
  9. "Getaway Car (Taylor's Version)"
  10. "King Of My Heart (Taylor's Version)"
  11. "Dancing With Our Hands Tied (Taylor's Version)"
  12. "Dress (Taylor's Version)"
  13. "This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things (Taylor's Version)"
  14. "Call It What You Want (Taylor's Version)"
  15. "New Year's Day (Taylor's Version)"

What is Taylor Swift wearing to Grammys 2024?

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Taylor Swift showed up to the 2024 Grammys in a sculptural white gown from Schiaparelli Couture. I love how Taylor has hopped on the corset trend. This is my favorite neckline in recent years! Even though the dress is white instead of black or green — and ended up going along with the Tortured Poets Department (or TS 11) announcement — I think it could still be a Reputation (Taylor's Version) Easter egg.

White is, of course, the opposite of black, so I think it's a more unexpected reference to the album, with black accessories like gloves, shoes, and jewelry being a direct nod. Plus, the watch necklace pays homage to Midnights! At the 2022 VMAs, Taylor wore another Reputation-coded outfit before she announced Midnights, so it could be a pattern.

Is there gonna be a Reputation Taylor's Version?

Image Paul Kane/Getty Images

Taylor Swift performs at Optus Stadium on October 19, 2018 in Perth, Australia.

Yes, we're getting a Reputation (Taylor's Version)! Taylor Swift has been very vocal about the fact she's rerecording her first five albums. However, she's been less direct about the order or the release schedule, which is honestly more fun! The official Taylor Nation account added fuel to the fire when they posted a photo of Taylor rehearsing for The Eras Tour — because, like @nashs_mom on TikTok says, the pose doesn't match up with any of the songs.

While all the photos they've previously posted match up with numbers like "Enchanted" or "Illicit Affairs," the new pose seems to match up with "I Did Something Bad" (which is both the last Reputation surprise song left AND the perfect song to announce the rerecording).

What caused Taylor Swift to make Reputation?

Image via Def Jam/UMG

Cover art for Kanye West's The Life Of Pablo, which features "Famous."

The primary catalyst for Taylor Swift's Reputation era was a phone call with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. After Taylor said Kanye did not have her permission to say he "made that b-tch famous" in "Famous," a video leak from Kim seemed to show Taylor did actually give her permission (it was later revealed the video was edited, and Taylor gave her permission to be mentioned, NOT to be called a b-tch).

"#TaylorSwiftIsOverParty" began trending on Twitter, and everyone from the media to the general public began calling her a snake. So she disappeared from the public eye for over a year, and Reputation was born. The era was moody — and full of snake imagery. Taylor says in her TIME interview that the album came from "a goth-punk moment of female rage at being gaslit by an entire social structure," and told Rolling Stone in 2019 that Reputation was a "metaphor" and her "playing a character."

How old was Taylor when she wrote Reputation?

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images for TAS

Charli XCX, Camila Cabello and Taylor Swift perform onstage during opening night of Taylor Swift's 2018 Reputation Stadium Tour at University of Phoenix Stadium on May 8, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona.

Taylor began writing Reputation in 2016, when she was 27. However, the stories she's telling go back farther than that since "Dancing With Our Hands Tied" talks about a relationship from when she was 25.

Is Reputation a love album?

Image via Big Machine Records

Cover art for Taylor Swift's Reputation.

While Reputation is sassy, moody, and satirical, I stand by the idea that it's actually a love album at its core. While the general public talked most about "Ready for It?" and "Look What You Made Me Do," songs like "Delicate," "Call It What You Want," and "New Year's Day" are all about healing after the media turned against her. The message of the album is all about how she wants to spend the the ins and outs of life with people she loves, because they make the boring days beautiful, which is also the sentiment running throughout "Lover."

"I want your midnights, but I'll be cleaning up bottles with you on New Year's Day" and "We can leave the Christmas lights up 'til January" are the same!!

What are the Reputation Taylor's Version vault tracks?

Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment

A Horcrux from Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part I

While we don't have the tracklist for Reputation (Taylor's Version) yet, she did mention in her TIME interview that the vault tracks will be "fire."

"I’m collecting horcruxes,” she says of the rerecordings. “I’m collecting infinity stones. Gandalf’s voice is in my head every time I put out a new one. For me, it is a movie now.”

I'm going to be real honest, this is the line that sent me into a tailspin because the idea that Taylor loves stories like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and the MCU as much as I do is too much!! But it makes sense because after all, she IS a storyteller.

Do you think we'll get Reputation (Taylor's Version) in February 2024? Check out our Facebook for the latest Taylor Swift news and browse ourUltimate Taylor Swift Gift Guide!

Lead image via Big Machine Records

This post has been updated.

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