What we feel “inside” doesn’t always show on the outside. Sure, our belt needs to be loosened just a bit and our sweat pants suddenly seem to be back in vogue, but other than that we really aren’t advertising what we’re feeling inside. However, we’re feeling it……
It seems natural to feel a little weighed down after a big meal, but it’s the much later on effect that has us curious as to the “what-in-the-world-did-we-do” to still feel this way that has us a wee-bit concerned. As we cycle back in reverse, we find it hard to imagine what changed so drastically as to make us gain a few unwanted pounds so quickly and feel so bloated (and/or constipated) for more than what seems normal. So to help you understand, here are a few common reasons why you might be experiencing “bloating”.
*Excessive sodium – Preservatives, seasonings and even less suspecting culprits (a slice of American cheese has 337 mg) are hidden places where sodium exists in more food products than you realize. We obviously expect it in chips, popcorn and alike, but hardly realize how often it’s the “flavor” behind our favorite foods. Depending upon your health/ethnic back ground, you should not consume more than 1700-2300mg (milligrams) of sodium a day.
*Dehydration – Water keeps our body “fluid”, helping us flush waste inside. A lack of water can constipate our system, causing us to experience “bloating” and less frequent bowel movements.
*Poor nutrition – Fiber rich foods regulate our bowel movements, while supplying much needed nutrients to our body. Incorporate more natural foods like fruits/veggies/brown rice into your diet and see if this doesn’t help.
*Colon backup – Products like “wheat and dairy” digest slowly, often causing our colon to become sluggish as it tries to break these food products down. Eliminate and/or greatly reduce these items from your diet for a few days and see if this doesn’t help.
*Chewing slowly – When we eat, our saliva (which contains enzymes) starts the breakdown of food before it continues through the digestive system. Eating fast, gulping down food can cause this process to become ineffective and sluggish.
*Physical activity – Exercise increases oxygen which in turn helps regulate our digestive process.
Our bodies are extremely smart and efficient. When we don’t consume the “right stuff” they let us know. Bloating is just one way they tell us, “You’re not doing something right” or “something’s wrong”. Other medical conditions can be related to bloating: Irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, small bowel bacteria overgrowth. If your bloating is lasting longer than a few days and if you’ve tried to naturally address the problem through a change in diet, then see a doctor for further diagnosis. Severe cramping or other unusual reactions require immediate attention that if left untreated could cause greater problems to your health. Write down when your symptoms first started/occurred, what foods/beverages you’re consuming and your level of physical activity. Each of these things will not only help you see what might need to be changed but will also help your doctor understand the “bigger picture” of your symptoms.
Quick Tips for Wellness: Bloating is a red flag that our body needs something to change.
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