Good Morning Lovlies,
Continuing on with the PCOS theme for September, one area I struggle with is extreme bloating. I can gain 10lbs in two weeks and lose it in another 3 weeks all from what I eat. In the world of curves and model aspirations, a flat stomach illusion, is still desired to showcase designers clothes appropriately and to look seamless in photos. So in my conquest to naturally manage PCOS, I present to you a list of foods that completely destroy all Anti-Bloat efforts. Some foods are actually shocking and I was hurt finding out that I needed to cut back or cut off my consumption of them:
WORST FOODS FOR BLOATING
Broccoli, Cabbage Kale and all Cruciferous Vegetables
Although these veggies pack a heavy punch of nutrients and are indeed delicious, they are terrible during moments when you need your stomach to be flat. The reason for this is these vegetables contain raffinose, a sugar that remains undigested and ferments in your system until your body is able to digest it. There is nothing wrong with eating these, but if you are on a mission or have an event to attend, stay away.
Legumes
There are no surprises here, as many people experience stomach trouble and gas after eating legumes (better known as beans). Beans are wonderful sources of fiber and protein, however, fiber cannot be digested by the body. Therefore until your body releases the fiber from your system, you will fill heavy and your stomach may experience extreme gas and bloating. Most legumes contain oligosaccharides, sugar molecules that the body can’t fully break down. These oligosaccharides sit in the stomach, where they ferment, causing gas and bloating.
Dairy (except probiotic yogurt)
I love dairy, but as I got older, I realized I am slightly lactose intolerant, so dairy always causes extreme stomach issues. Research suggests though that many people suffer from dairy because our bodies naturally do not produce enough enzymes to breakdown lactose. As a result, dairy for many individuals causes; gas, bloating, constipation, and stomach pain.
Milk Alternatives
Soy or almond milk may seem like safe alternatives for those with lactose sensitivities, but if you are buying a brand with the thickening agent carrageenan. Derived from seaweed, carrageenan has been linked to ulcers, inflammation, and other gastrointestinal problems. Other gums used for thickening such as; Gellan Gum, Locust Bean Gum, Tara Gum, etc are also indigestible. For those who suffer from digestive issues, these agents may still cause some discomfort and bloating. I love my almond milk, and since attempting to do the Whole 30 program and from research I have started to make my own almond milk. There are so many recipes online to create a masterpiece.
Apples and Pears
This hurts my heart, but apples and pears are known to be filling and a great source of fiber. However, much like beans, these fruits are not digestible entirely due to their high fiber content, they are not the best choice to eat when you need to look your best. Apples and pears also contain lots of sugar, so limiting consumption may be necessary if you aren’t that active because sugar that isn’t burned off turns into fat; making all high sugary fruits problematic to your waistline.
Salty Foods (Soups, Breads, Sauces & Highly Processed Foods)
Salt is a well known culprit for many issues, especially water weight and swelling. Too much salt intake will have your stomach looking like a balloon overnight and make your scale curse at you. Many people think getting a soup and sandwich is healthy, and although it is not the worst, when you want to keep your stomach slim, avoiding this meal selection is best. I love soup personally, but I make it fresh at home to monitor what goes into it and to limit sodium. Canned soups are probably some of the worse things on this planet to consume.
Corn
Corn is so delicious, but it contains a carbohydrate complex that cannot be digested by the body and aids to bloating once consumed. As tasty as it seems, the bloating is horrendous on those with IBS or gastrointestinal sensitivities. My love of corn comes through the form of popcorn, the safe and healthy snack (without movie butter).
Seltzer Water
Though I love this carbonated creation, the bubbles are known to get trapped in your stomach and cause it to swell like a balloon. It is not the best choice if you want to have a flat stomach at all times.
Diet Soda
Aside from the bloat-inducing carbonation, diet drinks also contain artificial sweeteners that can wreak even more havoc on sensitive stomachs. Artificial sweetners are worse for the stomach than actual sugar due to their synthetic components.
Protein Bars
You probably don’t think “beans” when you unwrap a protein bar, but many of the protein bars today contain protein isolates from soybeans, a legume. The end result is gas, bloating, and for people like me, digestive hell.
Raw Spinach
The high soluble-fiber content in spinach makes it a filling addition to sandwiches and salads, but the nutrient may also cause bloating in those with sensitive stomachs (like myself). Sadly, another component of spinach is oligosaccharides, which is also found in legumes. However, with spinach there are ways around digesting it by breaking it down either through cooking or blending. Spinach is so good for detoxification and maintaining cell function, so I eat it cooked or in my smoothies to make it easier on my body and alleviate bloating.
I hope you found this post informative and eye opening as I did when I began my journey to a healthier life. I found most of my information from eatthis.com, my doctors, and from just trial and error when making food selections. As an aspiring model and an individual who believes in honoring the temple God gave you, I try to make the best selections I can when I can. Hopefully my journey will assist you as well.
With Love,
LoLo
