Digestive problems are on the rise due to unhealthy food
consumption and bloating is of prime concern for many Americans. It is
irritating, unlikable and is a real embarrassment especially in the morning
hours. However, there are some precautions you can take to decrease
bloating and maintain your digestive system.
Drink more water:
You've heard it before, and here it is again: you should drink 8 to 10 glasses
of water a day. Your gut needs adequate hydration to function optimally. Water
and herbal tea are important to reduce bloating – no coffee, black tea,
alcoholic and sugary drinks.
Be regular: Dietary
fiber plays an important role in reducing the bloating by increasing the number
of feces and moving it. Of course, fiber-rich foods are often dense so that you
can choose between different fresh and whole-grain products. Some high fiber
foods include plums, pears, radishes, beans, cereals, legumes, and figs.
Gut feelings: Some
foods cause more bloating than others. Listen to your body to find out which
foods make you feel bloated and which foods reduce swelling. Some of the foods
that cause the greatest swelling are fatty foods, sugars, bread and cereals
that contain gluten, non-fermented vegetables, grains, and dairy products, and
some cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli. Whenever possible,
avoid chewing gum and carbonated drinks as they can deliver unwanted air to the
digestive system.
Stay in motion: Regular
activity can regulate bowel function and improve regularity. Some forms of
exercise, such as Pilates, may help to lower the abdominal wall to a shallower
position, making the abdomen flatter and decrease bloating.
Make less stress:
Have you noticed that you feel stress in the stomach during stress (e.g.,
butterflies in the stomach)? Your gut contains more neurons than your spinal
cord and often referred to as a "second brain." What happens in your
head can control your digestive and gut processes! Relieving stress is easier
said than done. Concentrate on what you can control here and now.
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