Beat Belly Bloat By Using These Natural Remedies
By Stepy Kamei
Bloating can be as uncomfortable to talk about as it is to experience, but you may be surprised to learn that bloating is a relatively common problem, affecting many people regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. The good news here is that, since it's such a prevalent health issue, there are plenty of resources you can turn to for help when tackling this problem, starting right here with these natural aides!
What Causes Bloating? Cutting Out Unhealthy Habits
Before learning about the best methods to fight bloat, it's helpful to learn about what causes this condition in the first place. There are a multitude of reasons as to why your belly bloats. For one, studies have shown that a diet high in saturated fats, sodium, carbonation, and sugar can be linked to an increase in belly bloat, so it's best to avoid foods with large amounts of these problematic ingredients.
Furthermore, high levels of stress and anxiety can cause bloat due to increased levels of the hormone cortisol, which can rev up unnecessary hunger pangs. Stress can cause you to choose unhealthy foods and can negatively impact your body over time -- and both of these scenarios certainly won't help to stop bloat.
Break Bad Habits by Committing to Healthier Ones
Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of bloat. Of course, it's best to focus on preventing this problem in the first place, so do your best to avoid highly fatty or acidic foods, and find a stress coping mechanism that works for you (such as yoga, meditation, or exercise). Still, bloating can pop up on occasion. When bloat strikes, it's good to be prepared!
Peppermint tea is a popular choice for tackling feelings of bloat, and for good reason. Peppermint contains flavonoids, which have often been cited for their ability to ease digestive issues within the body. Consider brewing a hot cup of tea the next time your stomach feels full to benefit from its soothing properties.
In a similar vein, sometimes hydrating with good old-fashioned water can be all your body needs to prevent bloating due to digestive issues you may be having without even realizing it. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when it comes to bloating is that liquids can be helpful.
Finally, there are two nutrients you should consider working into your diet for the best chance at beating bloat -- fiber and probiotics. Fiber can also work to reduce digestive issues, while probiotics add healthy bacteria into your gut, which can fight bloat on both a short- and long-term scale.
Still, if you're experiencing frequent episodes of bloating consistently, it's best to check in with your primary care physician in order to rule out other health conditions which may be contributing to this issue.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Murfreesboro, Tenn.