Foods That Make You Less Bloated
You know the feeling: Your pants feel a bit tight, your belly feels a little too full – and your face might even be a bit puffy. You’re bloated. Being bloated is no fun, and we’ve all been there. A few of the major factors behind the feeling of being bloated could be your diet, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, acid reflux, and constipation, to name a few. Still, if you find yourself bloated without knowing why, there some foods you can eat that can help get rid of it in a pinch.
Parsley
This herb acts as a natural diuretic, flushing excess water out of your system and fast. Try tossing a big handful of fresh parsley leaves into chicken noodle soup or any low sodium soup you like. If you want an immediate fix, you can chew on some raw parsley as you feel the symptoms starting to kick in.
Ginger
This mildly spicy root has been shown to solve all sorts of belly issues – including alleviating gas, nausea, and aiding digestion. Eating a silver raw is the best way to combat gas a bloat immediately but grating fresh ginger on top of veggie dishes or in smoothies is also a good way to get rid of a bloat.
Cayenne Pepper
This seasoning gets your digestive enzymes going, which can help alleviate gas and bloating. Add a pinch of cayenne powder to a glass of warm water and fresh lemon every morning. Doing this every morning will keep you regular.
Celery
Celery’s super high-water content can help with bloating and it’s a natural diuretic. Being extra hydrated actually causes your body to let go of excess fluids.
Fennel
This veggie is the go-to for getting rid of gas and bloating. Roast a sliced fennel bulb with a little olive oil or steep a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of tea. It will get rid of gas before you know it.
Psyllium Powder
The fiber in psyllium powder has a laxative like effect. Add it to your morning smoothie or stir it into a glass of water with a squeeze of lemon. There’s nothing like something that make you go when your belly is feeling a little backed up.
Bananas
Because bananas are loaded with potassium, they reduce water retention.
Cucumber
This vegetable contains compounds that flush out excess water and reduce swelling. Try snacking on cukes or make some cucumber infused water overnight and drink it in the morning.
Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes contain bloat-busting potassium and are also rich in fiber. This helps promote a healthier, happier digestive system. I’d go for a baked potato for dinner or a pre-roasted sweet potato, mashed up for breakfast.
Asparagus
This veggie has anti-inflammatory powers, which helps with bloating. It’s also high in fiber, keeping you regular.
Peppermint
Essential oils in peppermint can ease symptoms of irritable bowl syndrome, including bloating and constipation. Drink a cup of peppermint tea before bed.