You’d love to have a flat belly for the party tonight, but thanks to one too many sodas or that basket of tortilla chips, zipping your pants is a real struggle. Abdominal bloating not only looks bad but can also cause physical discomfort. The good news? Experts say stomach bloating is a condition you can avoid pretty easily.
What is bloating?
Bloating is a condition in which an excessive amount of air builds up in your digestive system. This makes your tummy look big and it may feel swollen and uncomfortable. It can happen when you swallow excessive air, eat too fast or drink through a straw. Bloating is completely different from water weight gain.
How to reduce bloating?
Having a bulging belly is one thing, but when your belly looks big due to bloating, it is a completely different issue. It does not mean that you have gained weight. It is often caused due to your diet and lifestyle habits. A bloated belly not only appears bad but can also cause physical discomforts like stomach tightness and swelling. The good part is that you can easily get rid of bloating. In most cases, it is temporary and you can get rid of it easily by following some simple tips. Here is what you can do to avoid bloating.
- Stop overeating
Stop eating fast is not good for your digestion. Chewing your food slowly helps to break the food into small pieces, making it easier for your stomach to digest it. When you hurriedly gulp down food, you also consume a lot of air along with it. Your stomach has to work harder to break the big chunks of food. Besides, you often overeat in such a situation. - Go for a walk
Physical activity can get the bowels moving more regularly, which can help to release excess gas and stool. Getting the bowels to move is especially important if a person is feeling constipated. A walk around the block can provide fast relief from gas pressure. - Try to avoid things that not good for you
Carbonated drinks, chewing gum, smoking and drinking through a straw are some other things that can lead to increased amounts of swallowed air. Doing these things can cause gas to get trapped in your belly, making you feel uncomfortable. Try to cut down on these habits and engage in some kind of physical activity. - Avoid ingredient you are intolerant to
Bloating is one of the symptoms of food intolerance. If you often feel bloated after consuming a particular food like rice or milk, get yourself tested. Often people do not realise that they are intolerant as in some cases they do not show any obvious symptoms. Check with your doctor if you need any dietary changes. - Drink lukewarm water
When you are dehydrated your body starts holding water, making you feel bloated. Drinking a sufficient amount of water can help you relax and reduce bloating. Instead of chilled water, drink lukewarm water or normal water. They are more hydrating and also speeds up the process of digestion.