There’s nothing worse than when you wake up feeling great one second and suddenly bloating up the next. Bloating is extremely common and can happen for many reasons. One of the most common reasons is the build-up of gas in the abdomen (definitely not a sexy feeling…). The diet plays a vital role in bloating and that is why I have created a list of anti-bloating foods that can easily be used in any recipe and I am sure you have most in your pantry or fridge right now!
Ginger
Whether it’s for treating a sore throat, nausea, achy muscles or bloated stomach ginger has many healing benefits. Ginger acts as a digestive aid, meaning it gets the gut juices flowing which helps with reducing any bloating brought on by indigestion. It is also a great source of anti-inflammatory properties! Next time you’re feeling bloated, make yourself a ginger tea, add some fresh ginger to your smoothie or use ginger in your cooking! Try my delicious anti-inflammatory Steamed Halibut in Ginger and Tumeric.
Cucumber
Ever wonder why use cucumbers are used under eyes? Turns out they’re not just refreshing, but are high in silica, caffeic acid, and Vitamin C -all of which are great sources for reducing swelling and water retention! I suggest adding some cucumber slices to your water bottle or making a chilled cucumber soup to help you with your bloating issues! Try my Carrot-Tumeric Hummus with cucumber slices for an anti-inflammatory and debloating snack!
Asparagus
Asparagus is not only a superfood, but it’s also a natural diuretic and will help to flush out any excess water retention from your system. This green veggie also has prebiotic fiber – which plays a key role in a healthy digestive system. Marni Sumbal, the author of Essential Sports Nutrition, says that this feeds “the good bacteria in your gut to help keep your digestive tract running smoothly”. I love adding asparagus to my Cauliflower “Couscous” Salad for an extra fiber crunch!
Dandelion
Dandelion has many properties that aid in bloating reduction. Not only is it a prebiotic, but it also works as a digestive aid and a diuretic. Using dandelion not only helps with removing water and excess sodium from the body, but it can also help with lowering blood pressure! Beat the bloat with dandelion tea and if you don’t want to drink dandelion in tea form, it is also a great addition to any salad, sandwich or pesto recipe!
Lemon
While Lemon is commonly known as a great source of Vitamin C, it actually has many more amazing benefits. As a natural detoxifier and diuretic, lemon can help with bloating and indigestion. Try adding lemon to warm water every morning and use it for natural flavoring for any recipe! I love using lemon in my Orzo Greek Salad.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar might not have the best taste, but it has been proven to be helpful with bloating. Stimulating the production of gastric acid, it helps to break down your food and get your bowels moving. This helps to eliminate any toxins in the body that might be causing the bloat. Try ACV in my Warming Apple Cider or adding it to my healing Chicken Bone Broth Recipe.
Green Tea
Green tea is not only known for boosting your metabolism but it also great at helping to decrease bloating. While iced tea is delicious, stick to warm tea for a more anti-inflammatory option! Sometimes iced beverages can shock the system and cause and lead to indigestion. Matcha is another great option to drink with many health benefits! It is like green tea’s more successful sibling!