10 Foods That Reduce Bloating
Bloating usually occurs due to gas buildup in the gastrointestinal tract, commonly caused by a poor diet or certain medical conditions. Fortunately, certain foods can help to reduce bloating and provide fast relief.
Here are ten great anti-bloating foods:
1. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are an anti-bloating food. It is filled with water and dietary fiber, which helps to flush out excess toxins in the body. Cucumbers also contain potassium, which balances sodium levels and helps reduce water retention.
2. Bananas
Bananas are chock-full of potassium, which helps maintain normal sodium levels in the body and reduce bloat. Also packed with prebiotic fiber.
Science suggests that prebiotic fiber may help promote the growth of friendly bacteria in the gut, which can aid bloating. In fact, bananas are one of the healthiest fruits you can eat to combat stomach puffiness.
3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt contains probiotics that can help combat bloating by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut. It’s also high in protein, which can help slow digestion.
And it’s a good source of calcium, which can help reduce fluid retention and bloating.
4. Kefir
Kefir is a fermented dairy product that contains probiotics. Studies show that the probiotics found in kefir may help reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort caused by excess gas. Additionally, it’s high in calcium and magnesium, which can also help fight off bloating.
5. Ginger
Ginger has a natural digestive enzyme called zingibain. This enzyme helps to break down proteins and helps relieve the feeling of bloating and fullness.
Plus, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease stomach cramps and gas.
6. Asparagus
Asparagus contains a compound called asparagine that acts as a natural diuretic to help reduce water retention. It is also packed with prebiotic fiber, which helps feed the friendly bacteria in your gut and reduce bloating.
7. Avocados
Avocados are high in fiber and potassium, which can prevent water retention. They’re also high in fiber, so they can promote digestion and regularity, helping to prevent constipation-related bloating.
8. Fennel seed
Fennel seeds are a popular remedy for bloating. Because they contain carminative compounds, which help reduce gas and ease stomach discomfort.
Generally, fennel also helps to relax the digestive system muscles and encourages proper digestion. To use fennel seeds for bloating, you can chew fennel seeds or steep one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds in hot water and drink the tea up to three times a day.
9. Pineapple
Pineapples are naturally high in bromelain, a digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins and helps decrease bloating. Studies have shown that bromelain can also help reduce inflammation in the gut, which could be causing your bloat.
10. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help ease bloating. It’s also a natural diuretic, which helps to flush out excess water from the body and reduce stomach puffiness. Drink a cup of green tea after meals.