I always feel so bloated after eating...

I always feel so bloated after eating...please help! Pam B in Poole

Bloating is a very common problem and there are lots of things you can do to help. There are also lots of things that can make bloating worse, so I've divided my advice to you into do's and don'ts.


Do's

Chew your food properly-this is so important as it prepares your food for digestion by breaking it into manageable pieces and allowing enzymes in your saliva to begin their work. Swallowing without chewing makes it so much harder for your stomach to digest food, and is one of the main causes of bloating.

Avoid wheat as the protein in it (gluten) is difficult for the body to digest. Instead, try bread or pasta made with rye, spelt or rice flour.

Take a probiotic- these will re-introduce 'friendly' bacteria into your digestive system. This is especially important if you've ever had to take anti-biotics, which can kill your good bacteria!


Don'ts

Add sugar or sweeteners to your food or drinks, as these can ferment in your digestive tract causing bloating.

Eat gas-forming foods like baked beans, Brussels'; sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower.

Drink carbonated drinks- try to stick to uncarbonated mineral water instead, at least until your stomach has settled down.

Go to bed with a full stomach - eating too late can put unnecessary strain on your digestive system while you're asleep. It's simple really - while you're lying down your digestive system can't utilise gravity, and instead has to push your food along sideways!


Pam, I'm optimistic that these ideas help, but if you're still experiencing symptoms after a few more days, then you should of course see your doctor.

Pam B in Poole experiences extended bouts of uncomfortable bloating and would like to know what she can do to combat it...

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