The Top 5 Anti-Bloat Foods

It’s finally summer and the pool season is here in Scottsdale, unfortunately there is a chance that as you put on that bathing suit you’ve encountered an uncomfortable experience – bloating.

We all will experience bloating from time to time. Often caused by natural processes during digestion, bloating is typically triggered by the accumulation of fluid or production of gas in the body. Certain foods specifically cause bloating such as processed foods filled with refined sugar, but there are many foods that can actually be beneficial for preventing or dealing with bloating.

Bananas

They may seem heavy but bananas are a low glycemic index carbohydrate, packed with fiber and potassium which is essential to have a balanced ratio with sodium to prevent water retention.

Leafy Greens

Some veggies like brussel sprouts are packed with essential nutrients yet still make you bloat. Leafy greens such as lettuce, kale and spinach are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can ease water retention.

Yogurt

Make sure you choose a low-sugar yogurt with active cultures because regularly consuming yogurt with active cultures increases lactobacillus and bifidobacterium – the “good” bacteria – in the digestive tract, which facilitate efficient digestion and prevention of belly bloat. The best source is plain, non-fat or low-fat yogurt. If you need a bit of sweetness, try using stevia or mix in fresh fruit at home rather than grabbing flavored yogurts.

Cucumber

If you’re already bloated, cucumbers can make a great belly-flattening snack. Extremely low-calories, high water and low fiber content of these tasty vegetables can cause increased urination, which in turn, makes you feel slimmer.

Papaya

A 2009 study showed that raw papaya contains a white, milky substance called papain and when ripe, the fruit acts as a moderate laxative which can help with the movement of the bowels. Although it is not the most popular or readily available fruit, papaya may be worth considering. Try using fresh papaya slices in a breakfast smoothie.