It’s fall—those skinny jeans you have such a love/hate relationship with are just begging to be worn. If you attempt to slip back into them, but find that you just can’t seem to close that button, you could be bloated. Whether the holiday feasts are leaving you too full, or it’s that time of the month, bloat happens. If feeling like a balloon that’s ready to burst isn’t quite your thing, eat these five foods to avoid that unwelcome, uncomfortable belly bloat.
- Asparagus: This delectable green veggie is a natural diuretic, which means it’ll help you get rid of any extra fluid that’s in your body. A delicious, nutritious, and fibrous snack that beats bloat? Yes, please!
- Avocado: We all know I’m avocado’s #1 fan, but did you know that this luscious green fruit is a great tool for de-bloating? These creamy, dreamy wonders are actually more potassium-rich than bananas. So, what’s that mean? It means that avocados ease sodium-induced water retention because potassium regulates sodium levels, and aids in water release. I’d gladly eat this healthy fat (even if it didn’t promote a flat tummy).
- Pineapple: When belly bloat strikes, as a result of poor digestion, opt for the tropical, golden fruit that is pineapple. Enzymes in pineapple improve digestion, and prevent bloating. Be prepared; wash down your dinner with a piña colada.
- Rice: Sometimes, starchy carbs are the culprit because they don’t get fully digested. When this occurs, gases form in the gut, and cause bloat. If you’re craving carbs, eat rice, which gets fully digested, because it’ll reduce your chances of experiencing that swollen, overly full feeling.
- Watermelon: This juicy, sweet melon, which happens to be my favorite fruit, is 92 percent water. All of that water gives it natural diuretic properties. Plus, it’s a good source of potassium, too. If deflating that belly is a must, put up a fight by grabbing a slice (and don’t be afraid to let the juices drip down your face).
