by Andi S Green.

Created on: November 17, 2009   Last Updated: November 20, 2009

Dealing with a bloated stomach.

A bloated stomach can feel so uncomfortable. As a sufferer myself, I know what it is like to suffer with a swollen, sore stomach that has blown up like a balloon. Along with it comes pain, wind, weight-gain, fluid retention and sometimes constipation. The bloated stomach can feel so heavy and the weight of it feels like it is squashing every organ near it! You can find that your clothes suddenly do not fit and you look about six months pregnant when you are not. So how can you cope with the big bloat?

Eliminate hormonal causes.

The hormonal symptom leading to bloating are familiar to most women. Pregnancy is well-known to enlarge the stomach, even in its early stages. If you think you are pregnant, avoid all un-prescribed medicines and visit your doctor straightaway to confirm it. Pre-menstrual syndrome also often leads to bloating before the monthly period is due and this usually disperses a few days after the period arrives. Avoiding salty and sugary foods can help to relieve symptoms of pre-period bloating, along with a healthy diet consisting of frequent but light meals. If your bloating continues for more than a few days, it is important to see your Doctor to eliminate any medical causes for the bloating. If you are in severe pain or have other serious symptoms along with the bloating then contact your doctor straightaway.

Avoid constipation

Eat regularly and reduce constipation by eating fibre rich foods such as wholemeal bread or cereal containing bran. Make sure you take enough exercise and drink enough fluids. Laxatives can be helpful but shouldn't be taken excessively. Natural remedies for constipation are preferable. Eating prunes with cereal every morning can be beneficial and a teaspoon of flaxseed oil every day can lubricate the digestive system. A remedy of mine is to put one tablespoon of dark molasses into a mug and fill the mug one quarter full with prune juice and to add hot water. It is very effective.

Avoid problem foods.

You may find that you bloat up in the stomach after eating some problem foods. Surprisingly the culprits aren't always what you would expect. I have found that cauliflower, squashes and Brussel sprouts give me a bloated feeling. My body doesn't digest these foods easily for some reason. In order to conquer bloating, it is important to be aware of how your body reacts after eating certain foods so that you can eliminate any perpetrators. Alcohol can be a dietary factor involved in the build

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