beat the bloat

Check out the following cheat sheet to beat the bloat.

Culprits:
Carbonated drinks: many people blame carbohydrate-rich foods like bread and pasta for bloating, when it fact, some of the biggest causes are carbonated drinks, such as soft drink, sparkling water and beer.
Fruits and vegetables: these, which are regarded as healthy foods can also contribute to gas accumulation in the stomach and the large intestine, resulting in a bloating effect and discomfort in the abdomen. Some of the worst offenders are broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, apples and pears.
High-fat foods: also big culprits when it comes to feeling sluggish and weighed down. The high-sugar, high-fat foods you find in take-away outlets often don’t digest as well as healthier foods and can contribute to stomach discomfort immensely.
Overeating: finish eating before you start to feel too full! Remember, your food keeps digesting after you stop eating, so if you’re still eating when you feel full, it’s only going to feel worse in 10 minutes time.

Cures:
Drinking water: though it sounds pretty obvious, drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day can help to pass food through your system more efficiently, leaving less time for bloating.
Eating slowly: rushing your food causes it to all digest at around the same time – which means you’ll start to feel full all at once and probably feel some discomfort.
Herbal tea: herbal teas like chamomile and peppermint tea have been proven effective in treating bloating at the source. Both are known to be used as relaxants to calm the nervous system, soothe gastrointestinal disorders, and ease menstrual cramps.
Metamucil: this supplement works in five different ways to assist your body in feeling healthier. Made from 100 per cent natural fibre, it works to cleanse your insides, help your body’s detox process, and in turn make you feel lighter and more active. It also helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels – all you need is a tablespoon with juice each day!
Activia yoghurt: containing Bifidus ActiRegularis, when consumed daily it helps to reduce digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas accumulation. Activia yoghurt also contains no gelatin, so you won’t feel heavy or sluggish!