We all want to look and feel our best. That’s why it is so annoying when bloating gets in the way — especially when it comes time to get in our swimsuits. There are several reasons women may experience bloating. Some of the more common ones include:
Food Intolerances – Some individuals may have difficulty digesting certain foods such as lactose or gluten. The inability to properly digest these ingredients can lead to bloating, gas and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Digestive Issues – Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, and other gastrointestinal disorders are known for causing bloating issues.
Functional Advice: If you experience bloating issues, it’s also wise to avoid gaseous foods such as beans, lentils, broccoli, cabbage, onions and carbonated drinks.
Overeating – Consuming large meals or eating too quickly can lead to bloating. People who eat fast may swallow air, which can lead to bloating and gas. Additionally, overeating can put a strain on the digestive system, causing discomfort and bloating.
Hormonal Changes – Fluctuations in hormone levels during a woman’s menstrual cycle can cause water retention, which may result in bloating. This type of bloating usually occurs in the days leading up to menstruation.
Now that you have a better understanding of what could be causing your unwanted bloating, you are probably wondering how to stop it. This is where a trusted Functional Medicine expert comes into the equation. Omnia Health is here with some effective and practical advice.
Practical ways to alleviate bloating.
At Omnia Health, we always begin by eliminating any underlying health concerns. Assuming a thorough consult and testing has taken place to remove any significant health concerns, here are some resourceful strategies for reducing bloating.
Adjust Eating Habits – Make a point to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of consuming large meals. This approach can help prevent overeating in addition to reducing bloating.
Remember to Hydrate – Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation, which is known to contribute to bloating. At the same time, staying hydrated helps you to feel full.
More Functional Advice: Your kidneys do an amazing job of cleansing and ridding your body of toxins as long as your water intake is adequate.
Exercise Routinely – Physical activity can stimulate muscles in the digestive tract. This helps move gas through the system and alleviates bloating. The goal should be to do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 days per week.
Probiotics – Taking probiotics may alleviate bloating by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. That being said, it’s important to discuss this option with a reliable healthcare provider, like Omnia Health, to determine the most beneficial probiotic supplement.
Fiber Intake – It’s true that adequate fiber intake is important for digestive health. However, consuming too much fiber at once can lead to bloating. Fiber intake should be gradual and you should aim for a balance between sources of soluble and insoluble fiber.
Dress Comfortably– Tight-fitting clothing (especially around the waist) can contribute to discomfort and bloating. For those who suffer from bloating issues, loose clothing is the way to go.
Bloating is just one of many symptoms Omnia Health can help to treat. Being bikini-ready is a very small part of the bigger optimal health picture. It’s time to discover the power of Functional Medicine.
Make your health a priority.
We are committed to helping our patients feel good, beyond external appearances. By implementing personalized plans and supporting healthy lifestyle changes, Omnia Health has a reputation for effectively making a positive impact. Healthier starts here.
