Incorporating more fruits and vegetables, which provide valuable fiber, is a step in the right direction to help manage cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and overall weight. However, if you are not used to consuming fiber-rich foods in your diet, you will want to do so slowly to avoid bloating and abdominal pain.
The amount of fiber each person needs is based on age. Generally, men aged 50 and younger should aim for 38 grams of fiber daily, whereas women of this age would target 25 grams daily. As we age, fiber intake recommendations decrease. Men aged 51 and older should aim for 30 grams of fiber daily; women should aim for 21 grams daily.
Some common offenders can trigger excess digestive discomfort, including bloating.
- Fruits with high fructose content: Avoid fruits that are high in fructose, such as apples, pears, and watermelon. Instead, choose bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, and darker-hued fruit — such as blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries — which contain valuable antioxidants.
- Beans and lentils: To reduce the amount of sugar that may contribute to bloating, always rinse canned beans and ensure they are thoroughly cooked. Cooking beans until they are very soft helps to decrease gas production. Alternative, easier-to-digest options that won’t cause as much bloating include tofu, tempeh, or quinoa.
- Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and cabbage are among the most challenging to digest due to their complex fibers, which tend to ferment in the gut, causing gas and bloating. Alternative nutrient-rich foods that are easier on the gut include dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard.
- Onions and garlic: Many allium family varieties, including red and yellow onions and garlic, can be difficult to digest. To reduce sensitivity, cook the vegetables well or soak in water for at least 15 minutes if eating them raw. You may also consider using powdered versions—although some people may still have sensitivity. To enhance flavor in your dishes, look to alternatives such as celery, fennel, shallots, or chives. You can also add other spices and herbs such as basil, ginger, and oregano to add depth to your meals without the fear of digestive issues.
With some further adjustments, you can ease the bloating and discomfort you currently experience.
- Eat smaller meals, more frequently. Instead of eating large meals, eat smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This approach can help your digestive system process food more efficiently, reducing the chances of bloating.
- Eat slowly. Taking time to chew your food thoroughly can help ensure that food is properly broken down in your mouth, which aids digestion and reduces the strain on your stomach. This also helps you to avoid overeating, which can put unnecessary pressure on your digestive system and cause more bloating.
- Stay hydrated. Ensure you drink enough water daily to support healthy digestion. Being properly hydrated helps move food smoothly through your digestive tract.
- Avoid carbonated beverages. Soda and other carbonated beverages introduce excess air into the digestive system, which leads to more bloating and gas. Instead, drink still or flat water or try peppermint, chamomile, or ginger tea after meals, which can help promote digestion and soothe your gut.
- Keep a food journal. As you adjust your diet, consider tracking what you eat and how you feel afterward in a food journal. This practice can help you identify specific trigger foods and let you make further adjustments for your comfort.
Hopefully, by incorporating small changes, you can continue enjoying your new diet without unpleasant side effects. Fiber has many benefits, including improved gut health over time. However, if you find that you still experience bloating, gas, or other abdominal discomfort, talk with your primary healthcare specialist. He or she can rule out food allergies or other conditions.
Source: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-food-to-reduce-bloating/
