Abdominal bloating can cause physical discomfort. Unless there is heart or liver disease, abdominal bloating can easily be avoided through food. In a healthy adult, bloating may be caused by intestinal gas. This may be due to an allergy or intolerant to a specific food.
Some ways to avoid the bloating
The first thing to do is to identify the culprit. These intolerances need to be identified by a practitioner and you may need to be put on an elimination diet to identify which food or foods need to be excluded from the diet.
- Constipation can often cause bloating. Not enough fibre, fluids and exercise can lead to constipation;
- Eat a diet high in fibre. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are all excellent sources of fibre;
- Drink the recommended amount of water which is 6-8 glasses of water per day;
- Eating too quickly and not chewing food properly can also cause bloating;
- Carbonated drinks cause bloating by trapping too much gas in your stomach. Limit the carbonated colas and soft drinks;
- Research shows that cruciferous or brassica vegetables such as broccoli, Brussel sprouts and especially cauliflower can leave you with that bloated feeling. If you are prone to gas after consumption of these foods, limit them;
- Foods such as peppermint, ginger, parsley, probiotics, pineapple can help in the reduction of bloating;
- Lemon with water. If you’re having a bloating issue, now is the time to push those fluids;
- Slow down on the salt;
- Celery contains properties that help rid the body of toxins and is used as a digestive aid. They also have a high content of water;
- Tumeric is great for bloating in that it aids its reduction;
- Limit alcohol or avoid.
If bloating is becoming chronically problematic, consult your health practitioner.
