Bloating is the feeling of extreme fullness and/or like you’re belly is full of gas. It can be extremely uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. Bloating is typically caused by water retention from various unhealthy foods like fast food or by eating something that doesn’t agree with your body like dairy or gluten. The list compiled here are foods proven to reduce or eliminate belly bloat, so next time you are feeling bloated try eating a few of these foods.
#1: Fennel seeds
Fennel seeds contain a compound that helps to relax spams in the gastrointestinal tract and helps to reduce gaseous cramps. You can either eat the seeds directly or try making a fennel tea out of the plant.
#2: Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, particularly raw, organic and unfiltered ACV, is great for many things. It is well known for its ability to improve the general workings of the digestive tract by maintaining proper levels of acidity in the stomach. So it comes as no surprise that this superfood can also help to beat float. You can sip on it solo, but if the taste is too strong try diluting some in water.
#3: Lemon
Lemons are proven diuretics and are also known to help the body detox. The polyphenols found in lemons help to aid in weight loss, reduce inflammation in the digestive tract as well as relieve bloating. Try a fresh cut up lemon with some water next time your belly is a little too full for comfort.
#4: Pineapple
Pineapple is full of fiber and has a mild diuretic effect, similar to lemons. Several studies have found that pineapple can reduce inflammation in the colon, a common cause of bloating. Make sure the pineapple is fresh and not canned for the best effects.
#5: Carrots
Not only are carrots great for eyesight, they can also help relieve symptoms of bloat as well. Carrots are high in potassium, a vitamin which is known to fight bloating. Just one carrot stick can have as many as 195mg of potassium. Try munching on this healthy snack anytime you feel bloat coming on.
#6: Cranberries
Typically associated with fighting symptoms of UTIs, cranberries are a natural diuretic that can help reduce bloating as well. Opt for fresh cranberries rather than juice which typically comes packed with added sugar, another common cause of bloating.
#7: Bananas
Bananas are a superfood, known to help many ailments. Because they are incredibly high in potassium, similar to carrots, they can help fight bloat while giving your body a nice boost of energy. They also have a mild diuretic effect. You can eat bananas plain or try adding them to your favorite recipes like pancakes, salads, smoothies, etc.
#8: Olive Oil
Olive oil is one of the healthiest sources of fat there is. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has plenty of antioxidants known to reduce inflammation, which is the most common cause for bloating. Try drizzling some on a fiber rich fruit or veggie for a serious bloat fighting combination.
