Ban the Bloat!

So, having three kids doesn’t exactly lend itself to six-pack abs BUT I found a few tips that I’ve been trying to follow (really, I’ve been trying – I swear J) that are really helping.  I didn’t realize how “bloated” I was until I made a few adjustments.  Now I can totally feel the difference in how my clothes fit and I just FEEL better!  So … I thought I’d share some of the tips I found with all of you.

• For starters … avoid excess salt and highly-processed foods.  They cause water retention and can make you feel sluggish.  We have enough going on in our bodies and the last thing we need to do is retain water!
• Manage your carb intake.  I’m not saying to completely cut them out of your diet because you actually need carbs – they’re a backup energy source for your body.  But most of the times you’re not using as many as you’re taking in … so just cut back and I know you’ll see/feel a huge difference.
• Believe it or not eating uncooked veggies can make you bloated, so start steaming/cooking your veggies.  They’re easier to digest and just as healthy!
• You know the saying … “Beans, beans the magical fruit” … well, it’s true!  Cut back on gassy foods like cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, legumes (beans) and citrus fruits.
• I know that we all count calories in some way, shape or form … but a lot of those low-cal foods (aside from being filled with preservatives and other junk) can make you bloated.  The sugar substitutes often found in those low-cal foods are the culprit … so if you want an Oreo, stick with the real thing!  Just don’t eat 10 of them in one setting!!
• This is a no-brainer … stay away from fried foods.
• Soda and other carbonated drinks definitely add to that bloated feeling so try and replace them with water or brewed iced tea.  Tip, mix your favorite fruit juice (cranberry, for example) with your fresh brewed iced tea.  It’s really refreshing but you’re not using nearly as much sugar to sweeten it!
• Practice moderation with drinks that are highly acidic like alcohol, coffee and fruit juices (ie. orange juice, grapefruit juice, etc.).  They tend to irritate your digestive system which can lead to swelling and bloating.
• And, finally, ease up on the gum-chewing.  It actually causes you to swallow air so it’s like blowing up a hot air balloon … only it’s not a balloon, it’s your tummy!!

Now, I’m not saying you have to do each and every thing I mentioned here … but try giving up soda for a week and see if you notice a difference?  Or maybe give up chewing gum for a day.  The little things all add up and, in the end, along with regular exercise and good diet choices you can get back into shape.