Say Goodbye to Post-Lunch Bloat

Date: 22.11.2011

Your group outing to a local buffet at lunch was heavenly, but after you return to the office, you soon find yourself facing that post-meal enemy of employees everywhere – uncomfortable bloat. Whether your symptoms are related to indigestion, an allergic reaction, or just plain overeating, it can be very difficult to concentrate on your job responsibilities when you feel like you’re about to burst out of your skin. Here’s how to defeat the bloat and get back to work.

• Cut down on carbs. Some starches and carbohydrate-rich foods are chief culprits when it comes to bloating. Beans and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage are top offenders.
• Slow down. If you eat at a more measured pace, you’ll swallow less air and break your food down into smaller pieces – both of which can decrease post-meal bloat.
• Skip fizzy drinks. Sodas, sparkling water, and even Champagne can add to bloat, especially at large meals.
• Watch fat and fibre. Both slow down the digestion process, which can leave you feeling uncomfortable bloated in the meantime.
• Move after meals. There’s a reason why the post-meal constitutional is an idea that’s persisted for centuries. Mild exercise can aid digestion and impart a sense of general well-being.

In some instances, it can be virtually impossible to avoid bloating if, for example, you encounter a new food that doesn’t sit well with your digestive system or causes a slight allergic reaction. However, in most cases, you can avoid painful bloating by sticking to these simple guidelines.