How to beat the bloat without probiotics
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
Depending on the state of your GM, probiotics can actually do more harm than good by causing more bloating, gas or diarrhea. If you already have some bacterial overgrowth wreaking havoc in your small intestine or a general imbalance of good and bad gut bugs, the likelihood of getting total relief from probiotics may be nil.
Before reaching for lactobacillus in a pill, ask yourself:
• How long have I been feeling bloated?
• How can I minimize the foods/drinks that are possibly contributing to it?
• During which parts of the day do I feel bloated?
• Am I hydrating properly for my body size?
• How much processed foods am I really consuming?
Get curious and honest about how you’re nourishing your body, free of judgment, and do your best to go back to basics first:
➤ Reduce or eliminate the consumption of highly processed junk
➤ Eat way more fiber from plant-based whole foods
➤ Chew properly
➤ Drink lots of water
➤ De-stress and manage your mind
Once the bloat subsides, try to get your good bacteria from fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, non-sweetened yogurt, tempeh, kimchi or kombucha.
If, however, you are someone with an uncomfortably distended tummy all of the time (which could mean SIBO or other digestive issues), consider taking a trip to a GI specialist or functional medicine doc who will address the root cause of your “pregnancy.”
Do you get relief from probiotics? How does bloating show up in your world?
Jumpstart your gut health and achieve vitality by downloading my free guide here! If you’re ready to gain energy, clarity and high levels of serotonin, I’d love to help. Book your free Gut Check Sesh here and let’s make it happen!
