Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought you looked five months pregnant? Or tried to zip up a dress but was unable to, not because you are expecting a newborn or have overeaten, but because gas decided to stubbornly lodge itself in your stomach? #Sigh.
Feeling bloated is frustrating, not to mention downright uncomfortable. There is the sharp pain, the sudden extra weight and the constant desire to fart. Whew. My husband has borne the brunt of these random excessive farting episodes a number of times. Lol. Don’t even think of judging me, I’m pretty sure you’ve also struggled with holding fart in, too.
The truth is, many women suffer from feeling bloated. Although there might be underlying health conditions causing this, for the most part, it is a pretty common experience and it can be self-managed. If you think you need to see a doctor about feeling bloated all the time, by all means, do so. But if you are willing to explore a few DIY remedies, here are a few things that worked for me.
Meal Audit
Take note of the foods that make you feel bloated. You can either take them in much smaller quantities or eliminate them completely. Yes, this may be hard especially if this is a fave but such is the life of an adult. You could also experiment and try eating these foods at different times of the day to see how they affect you. I find that I can eat beans at any time of the day, except in the evenings. So I know not to go near it once it’s getting dark.
Do A Detox
I know science is divided on whether an actual detox is possible considering your kidneys already detox your system. But our version of cleaning up inside seems to work. Detox with water and infused fruit is a lifesaver. You can also detox with smoothies or just natural fruit juice. The idea is to allow fluids into your system during a period of fasting from meals so that toxins can be wiped clean. Of course, it goes without saying; do not take fizzy drinks while on a detox.
Try Tumeric
Tumeric is a detoxifying spice and I’ve heard great reviews from people that have used it. A friend of mine swears by it. She mixes it with warm water and drinks it and she says she can literally see her tummy ‘deflating’ so to speak. You can put a teaspoon in your tea or smoothie if you can’t take it along with water.
Walk/Exercise
Make it a habit to incorporate physical activity in your day-to-day routine. It helps your bowels move which in turn helps in releasing gas.
Do you have any go-to remedy for feeling bloated? Please share in the comment section.