Best and Worst Foods for Bloating
Bloating is a common digestive issue for both men and women. Stress, poor diet and lack of beneficial gut bacteria cause bloating, constipation and gas. Even though these conditions are not serious, they cause a lot of discomfort, and also affect a person's self-confidence. Unless caused by some serious health issues, these problems are normally triggered by the food you consume. The most common culprits include:
- Broccoli, Cabbage, Asparagus
Caraway seeds
Caraway seeds provide carminative properties, meaning they prevent gas formation in the stomach and intestines. These seeds also stimulate growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which is vital for proper digestion.
Fennel
Fennel and fennel seeds act like antispasmodic agents in the colon, which means they effectively reduce bloating and gas. This amazing food also relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract and stimulates bile flow thus reducing any digestive discomforts.
Pineapple
Similarly to ginger, pineapple is also abundant in protein-digesting enzyme, meaning it improves digestion and reduces gas and bloating. This super food is also beneficial because of its anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginger
Owing to its protein-digesting enzyme called zingibain, ginger is one of the most beneficial natural ingredients for relieving gastrointestinal issues.
Chamomile tea
This is another tea that provides powerful anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and carminative properties. Chamomile tea soothes the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, and reduces stress in the body – the underlying cause for most digestive problems. It also provides relief for diarrhea, especially in young children.
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is an amazing soothing agent that relaxes the smooth muscles. It has also been proved effective in treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Parsley
Except for eliminating bad breath, fresh parsley also promotes healthy digestion. In addition, parsley is a natural diuretic, meaning it eliminates excess water weight, gas and bloating.
Papaya
This health-boosting tropical fruit can also reduce bloating. The papaya abounds in the enzyme papain, which is a protein-digesting enzyme that relieves bloating and gas. It’s also helpful for eliminating intestinal worms and parasites that cause bloating.
Apple cider vinegar and lemon
Both ACV and lemon are amazing natural remedies that provide instant relief for bloating. Just mix 1-2 teaspoons. ACV in a cup of water, or squeeze 1/2-1 lemon juice in a quart of water and drink it. This drink stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, which are important for proper digestion.