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Health

08th Sep 2012

10 Ways to Beat the Bloat

We've all been there, wearing a bikini or a skin-tight dress and feeling as bloated as the day is long. Well never again!

Rebecca McKnight

Whether you’re heading off to the beach on this fine day or are planning on painting the town read tonight, you will want to be looking and feeling your best.

And one thing that can stop you from doing that is feeling bloated. It happens to everyone and can happen all of a sudden which is even worse.

So to stop it, here are ten tips that can help you beat the bloat!

  1. Eating foods that are full of the good kind of fat stops you from over-eating and getting bloated. Why not have fish or an avocado salad for lunch or dinner? They’re tasty and also super quick to prepare which means more time for your hair and makeup.
  2. Nibble on unsalted nuts such as almonds and cashews. These are full of protein and make you feel fuller faster and for longer which reduces your chances of having a bulging belly. It’s a win-win.
  3. Have fruits that are full of water. Both cucumbers and watermelons are prefect and will ironically stop bloating. Plus they’re tasty and you can pretend that you’re on holidays… maybe that’s just us then!
  4. Stay away from salt. That includes foods that are full of salt as well as adding salt to your meal. We’re all guilty of it but salt contains one of the key causes of bloating, sodium, so try to avoid both.
  5. We’re taking a bullet here for you by breaching the topic of foods that cause wind. Basically avoid things like broccoli and beans unless you want to be bloated and risk causing a stench on the beach or in the bar.
  6. There’s no need to avoid carbohydrates but do go for something that is low in them and high in fibre. Things like mushrooms and green vegetables are great. In fact, we reckon a stir-fry would be the perfect pre-nightclub meal!
  7. As a general rule and to prevent a dodgy tummy, cook something fresh. Processed foods and frozen dinners might be handy but they’re often full of salt which, you got it, causes bloating.
  8. It’s not all about what you eat, it’s about how you eat too. Whether you’re having a picnic on the beach or are lining your stomach for a couple of drinks, take your time. This also reduces the chances of you getting embarrassed when you spill something down your top!
  9. If you do get bloated, don’t worry because it is possible to drink it away. And no, we’re not talking a few cocktails (alcohol actually causes bloating). Water and herbal teas such as peppermint and ginger are bloat-fighting beverages.  
  10. Going for a walk can also help to tame your tummy and don’t worry, it only has to be a gentle stroll which means you’re not going to have a problem in those four inch heels you’re wearing!

So now that you’re prepared to deal with your beach bloat or your bar bloat, have a beautiful time!

Topics:

Eating Well