Best and Worst Foods to Beat the Bloat

Nothing takes the shine off summer like putting on your cute new suit, only to have all your confidence go flying out the window when you look down and see your stomach taking on a life of its own (it was flat yesterday, how did this happen?!).

Unfortunately, women are more prone to bloating than our male counterparts, especially when we're on our period. But that tight, uncomfortable swelling doesn't have to be your reality. If you have a pool day ahead of you this weekend, start preparing today by adhering to this list of good and bad foods for bloating.

THE CULPRITS:

1. Kale
   Avoid: Kale and other cruciferous greens like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage
2. Carrots
   Tip: Cook them instead of eating raw to reduce bloat
3. Legumes
   Avoid: Beans, lentils, peas
4. Dairy
   Avoid: Cheese, milk, ice cream
5. Apples
   Avoid: Apples and similar high-fiber fruits like pears
6. Artificial sweeteners
   Avoid: Sugar-free gum, Splenda (sucralose), Sweet'N Low (saccharin), Equal and NutraSweet (aspartame)
7. Condiments
   Avoid: Condiments like hot sauce, mustard, barbeque sauce, ketchup, tomato sauce

THE SAVIORS:

1. Cucumbers
2. Watermelon
3. Bananas
4. Papaya
5. Yogurt
   When choosing yogurt, look for options with probiotics and low amounts of sugar. Probiotics are "friendly bacteria" that can naturally help regulate the digestive system.

   Tip: Add sweetness by mixing in fresh fruit at home rather than the flavored yogurts

6. Herbs
   Cook with herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, dill, basil, mint, lemon or lime juice, rosemary
7. Warm Water
   If you don't enjoy the taste of warm water, try adding 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and a drop or two of lemon essential oil (lemon is very alkalizing and cleansing)