Natural Remedies For A Swollen Belly
A swollen belly is very common, especially when you finish eating. After a binge, or a simple abundant meal, it is not strange to feel heavy and with a large increase in abdominal volume that does not resemble the abdomen that we have in normal conditions.
What happened? Have we suddenly gotten fat? How long are we going to have to be with that uncomfortable image and feeling? It is certainly something really annoying that is due to many factors.
However, alleviating these discomforts would be possible by following the tips that we share with you below. We clarify that several of them do not have a scientific basis but are based on the recommendations of natural medicine and popular folklore.
What is the swollen belly?
The possible causes of a bloated belly are many, as the United States National Library of Medicine points out. Most are not related to serious problems, however if you suffer from a swollen belly regularly, it would be advisable to consult a doctor. Here are the most common causes:
- Swallowing air : When eating, you swallow more air than usual, causing inflammation.
- Excess fiber-rich foods : fiber swells when mixed with gastric juices, which can cause gas and a consequent increase in abdominal volume.
- Irritable bowel syndrome: this disease is known for the generation of gases after eating food.
- Lactose intolerance
- Pregnancy or ovarian cysts
- Partial intestinal occlusion
Beyond these proven causes, there are others that respond to popular belief and that, although they have not been reliably proven by scientific research, could be related to that feeling of belly swelling:
1. Too many fried foods in your diet
Batters, croquettes, French fries, stews and stews have a lot of oil in their preparation . In other words, they include a significant amount of fat, a substance that some people digest well.
Those who suffer from metabolic disorders such as Tay-Sachs or Gaucher disease may experience an increase in their belly after ingesting fat. This is because they do not have the necessary enzymes (or those that do not work properly) to break down this substance.
If this is your case, your doctor will recommend the best diet to follow. In general, it is recommended to cook food on the grill, in the oven or steamed, rather than using the frying technique.
2. Intake of carbonated drinks
Drinking carbonated sodas could cause a bloated belly, especially if we consume them during meals. Not all people show this discomfort, but many say that their improvement is related to the change to the consumption of still drinks.
Recommended diet to avoid a bloated belly
If you regularly suffer from a swollen belly after eating food, you should consult your doctor for a diagnosis and further treatment. In general, it is usually recommended:
- Consume fresh fruit as it is easily digestible , contains fiber and a large amount of water, as well as a low fat content. For this reason, its inclusion in the diet would be advisable. Of course, always in moderation: remember that excess fiber can also cause discomfort. It is recommended to have a fruit salad for dinner, for example.
- Eat soy, alfalfa, or lentil sprouts. They are also nutritious and low-fat foods. It might be advisable to include them in gazpachos or soups and cold creams and even tortillas.
- Choose lean meats: minimizing fat consumption can be a good way to improve this condition.
- Avoid pastries, sweets and chocolates
- Change the water of legumes and whole wheat pasta halfway through cooking. In this way, you reduce the chance that they will cause gas.
Beyond these nutritional tips, you can try slowing down and chewing food slowly to minimize air intake during feeding. Remember that swallowing air is usually the main cause of this ailment. If despite this you continue to feel discomfort, do not hesitate and consult your doctor.
