Often caused by natural processes during digestion, bloating is typically triggered by the accumulation of fluid or production of gas in the body. Unfortunately, certain foods cause more gas than others (including carbonated drinks and fried foods).
The occasional bloat however, can be reduced through some wise food choices and lifestyle changes. To fight the uncomfortable fullness, try these bloat-blocking foods:
- Bananas – high sodium intake could be causing your bloating. Hiding in most of today’s processed foods, sodium attracts and retains water in the body. Potassium on the other hand, can help counter sodium’s role. Maintaining your overall potassium-sodium level is important for water balance, so try adding some banana to breakfast for some balance.
- Cucumber – the high water and low-fibre content of cucumbers can cause increased urination, which in turn, beats the bloat and flattens the tummy.
- Ginger – ginger contains a digestive enzyme called zingibain, which helps the body break down protein. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which works on the bloat. Sipping on ginger tea after a meal will help your body to stimulate saliva and gastric juices that aid digestion.
- Fennel – fennel acts as a diuretic, helping out flush out the excess water in you body that’s causing you to feel bloated. Plus, fennel seeds contain essential oils that help with the digestion of nutrients.
