Avoid Holiday Bloat With These Simple Tips
LOS ANGELES (CBS2) — Between decorating the tree, hanging stockings and frosting cookies… the holidays can be a lot to juggle. And with the fun can come the post-party guilt and the post-party bloat.
Board Certified Gastroenterologist Su Sachar says she hears it all the time and says the bloat is a combination of things. She recommends using a product like Lactaid or a generic if you have trouble with dairy.
Sachar also says you should stay away from cauliflowers, beans, broccoli and onions if you want to avoid the bloat and beware of the bubbly if you want to look trim. Other common food offenders include:
1. Sodium (Salt): 1 gram of salt pulls in 3 grams of water. (appetizers, gravies, soups);
2. Lactose: Lose the ability to digest milk. Lactase is low. (ice cream, cheesecake, cheese);
3. Carbohydrates-Complex: Difficult to Digest (broccoli, cauliflower, onions);
4. Carbonated Beverages: Produce gas bubbles (sparkling water, soda, champagne);
5. Artificial Sweeteners: not absorbed by intestines (gum, diet sodas, "sugar-free" foods, mixers).
If you do overindulge, over-the-counter gas relief will help the bloat – look for one with Simethicone and sip on some Chamomile tea. In addition, Sachar offered the following bloat-busting tips:
1. Never go to a party hungry.
2. Take your time – eating and drinking too fast makes you swallow air.
3. Open your kitchen cabinet (Oregano, Sage, Ginger, Chamomile, Lactaid Peppermint Oil may help.
4. Over the counter supplements like Probiotics and Simethicone may help.
5. Get Moving- Exercise can deflate "bloat".
For more information, visit:
» Gastroenterologist Su Sachar
